Friday, 31 July 2015

Jurlique Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner |

Jurlique Sunless Tanner
Jurlique Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner* | £24 | Link 

If you live in the UK, then you'll know that the sun makes an appearance for about a week and then you never see it again for the rest of the Summer. Due to this fact, I have been increasingly interested in fake tans. As an avid Jurlique skincare user, I was excited to try out the Jurlique Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner and I'm pleased to report that it's not a disappoint - In fact it may be my favourite fake tanner yet. 

With a gel-liquid, lightweight formula, this fake tan provides me with a natural looking, streak free tan that deeply hydrates and protects the skin from environmental aggressors. Now who wouldn't want that? Sweet orange extract produces the faux bronzed glow, whilst Superberry Complex conditions and Safflower Seed Oil moisturises. What makes this fake tan stand out from the others I have used is that it is suitable for use on both the face and the body, running no risk of breaking you out or becoming increasingly orange. I'm sure any regular fake tanners will be pleased to know that you can now wave goodbye to the classic smell that comes along with many fake tans, as due to the fruit extracts and oils, this formula not only benefits the skin in multiple ways, but it smells divine too. It's easy to apply, fast absorbing and it fades evenly throughout the body. I use a fake tan mitt to apply all over my body like a moisturiser, wait for 2-4 hours while it develops and if I want to deepen the tan I apply another layer. 

If you're looking for a new fake tan this Summer that will give you a natural, faux glow, then I would thoroughly recommend this. I reach for this on a regular basis especially when I want a streak free, fool proof tan.

Have you tried the Jurlique Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
SHARE:

Wednesday, 29 July 2015

New Release | Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate

Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate
After the success of the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, I knew that it wouldn't be long until they created a day time version. Cue the Kiehls Daily Reviving Concentrate*, a new release that will have lovers of facial oils hot under the collar. If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you'll know that I am an avid user of Kiehls' products, so when this landed on my doorstep, I had high hopes for the yellow hued oil and I am happy to report that this didn't disappoint. 

The Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate is packed full of naturally derived ingredients that are designed to support the skin's natural defense system and visibly improve the skin's appearance, making your skin look more energised, awake and radiant. Too good to be true? Absolutely not. From the get-go my skin appeared more glowing and I found that my pores have reduced considerably with every use. Ingredients such as sunflower seed oils help to increase hydration and improve skin's smoothness, whilst Tamanu Oil helps to lock in moisture promoting healthy looking skin. The main ingredient and one that gives the oil it's unique scent is Ginger Root Oil, at first I was put off as the scent was so over powering, but after noticing the difference to my skin due to it's anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, I knew that it was worth putting up with. 

Although this oil is designed to be used in the daytime and before your moisturiser, I like to use it at night too to ensure to optimise the results and keep my skin looking radiant throughout the day. The lightweight, fast absorbing formula allows you to apply moisturiser and make up straight after application without running the risk of it slipping and sliding all over your face. After several weeks of use, my skin's texture and appearance has considerably improved, I still use my Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream on a regular basis, but I always reach for this during the morning when I want to pack some punch when it comes to hydration. 

If there's one new release you need to jump on the bandwagon with, it's this one. It launches in September and will be available for £36. 

What's your favourite Kiehl's product? Could this be a new favourite of yours?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
SHARE:

Tuesday, 28 July 2015

The Ultimate Highlighting Duo |

The Balm Mary Lou Manizer, The Balm Betty Lou Manizer
Despite having more than enough highlighter's to last me a lifetime, my obsession and collection keeps on growing. I long for that cheek sheen and a subtle glow, so with that, my array of highlighers has got a bit excessive. I have worn the Balm's Mary Lou Manizer practically everyday since I purchased it earlier this year, but I have always had my eye on it's bronzed sister Betty Lou. In a moment of weakness I ordered it and from the first sweep I was sold. 

Both highlighters are finely miled, highly pigmented and easily blended. With a light hand you can add a subtle glow to your cheeks without an excessive amount of shimmer or chunks of glitter. Mary Lou is a honey hued highlighter which diffuses light and adds a sheen to your cheeks, whilst Betty Lou is more of a highlighter/bronzer hybrid, warming up your complexion and adding a sunkissed glow. For me, the two highlighters work together in harmony creating the perfect duo. I use Betty Lou just above my contour and then Mary Lou along the tops of my cheekbones. During the Summer months, I always opt for bronzed complexions and strong highlighters to brighten and add radiance to my lacklustre skin. Whether you wear these two individually or in cahoots, these two will have your highlighting needs covered with both highly pigmented, long lasting formulas that will be sure to see you through the Summer. 

What is your favourite highlighter? Do you use two highlighters?
SHARE:

Sunday, 26 July 2015

The Summer Nails Edit |

Essie, Model's Own, Topshop, Barry M, Nails
Essie, Model's Own, Topshop, Barry M, Nails
Essie, Model's Own, Topshop, Barry M, Nails
When it comes to nail vanish, I rarely use anything that isn't Model's Own, Topshop, Essie or Barry M. Their shades, formulas and ease of application never fail to impress me, so it's needless to say that during the Summer months I always head straight to them to brighten up my mani. Although I always reach for pastel shades for everyday, easy wear, on days when I want to enhance my tan and add a pop of colour, I head for the brighter shades. Today, I thought I would give you the run down of my go-to colours this Summer. 

The Pastels
Pastels will always be my forte and over the years, I have collected an array of baby blues, pinks and purples to compliment and colour my Summer nails. During the Summer, I am always after a shade that I can pop on and be out the door in 2 minutes - Cue the Barry M Speedy Quick Dry Nail Paint - Eat My Dust, a pale blue shade that applies evenly and dries instantly. If pastel purple is your type of shade, then Topshop - Parma Violet has you covered. The long lasting, even coverage formula applies evenly with 2 coats and the limited edition rose gold packaging has a massive thumbs up from me. If you're a regular reader of my blog then you'll already know that my evergrowing Essie collection is showing no signs of slowing down and the three shades that have regularly been featured on social media are three that I believe everyone should own. Fiji, Salt Water Happy and Mint Candy Apple are three pastel shades that are easy to wear and apply. 

The Brights
If there's one collection you need to get your hands on this Summer it's the Model's Own Polish For Tans*. From corals to neons, the whole collection will help to enhance and compliment your natural tan. Although I reach for pastel shades for day to day wear, it's the brights that I love for when I am sporting a tan. If you're looking for a new holiday nail vanish shade then the two tones that I can't get enough of are Turquoise Sea, a neon blue and Cocktail Hour, an orange/pink hybrid. Both shades apply evenly, dry quickly and long last on the nails meaning that you won't have to reapply too often. More time in the sun, how could we complain? If you're after a bright nail vanish shade that isn't too OTT, but still has the wow factor then I would thoroughly recommend Malibu Pink, a neon barbie pink shade that instantly highlights a tan.

What shades have you got on your nails this Summer?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED 
SHARE:

Friday, 24 July 2015

Minimal Make Up |

Minimal Make Up
With the recent surge of hot weather I have been opting for a minimalistic, lightweight look. Swapping medium coverage foundations for BB creams, powder eyeshadow for cream and all in all I have been happy with the result. When I am having a lazy day or I am in need of a fuss free make up look, then there is a range of products I always reach for. Today, I thought I would give you the low-down on what products I use to create a simple, minimal base with a touch of colour. 

Base: This Summer I have been on a mission to find a few base products that work together to create a flawless base that can be blended in a matter of seconds. I have been using the Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue non stop over the past couple of months. This lightweight, skincare/makeup hybrid covers blemishes and redness, whilst moisturising and improving the skin's texture. If I am after a bit of extra coverage, I use the Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Concealer under my eyes or to cover imperfections. It's demi-matte, luminous finish conceals, whilst keeping the skin feeling and looking natural.

Cheeks: Even though a lighter base usually allows your natural glow and colour to shine through, I like to make sure I still add definition. The Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow has been a staple in my routine for the larger part of this year. The sculpting contour and highlighting duo not only allows you to achieve chiselled cheekbones in a sweep of a brush, but the soft, golden highlights brightens your complexion and adds a subtle glow. My current blush of choice is the Max Factor Creme Puff Blush - Seduction Pink when I want to add an effortless flush of colour to my cheeks without going OTT. 

Eyes: If you're a regular reader of my blog, you'll know that I have a huge soft spot for neutral palettes and one sweep wonders. The Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise - Bette is a cream eyeshadow that I have been reaching for daily. The lightweight, buildable formula adds a sheer wash of colour to the whole lid that can be built up to create a more high impact look. For a fail safe eye look, I like to add a few coats of the Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara to add definition, volume and curl to my lashes. To finish off, I add definition and colour to my eyebrows by brushing on the Benefit Gimme Brow Gel which thickens the brows, whilst being natural looking and long wearing. Perfect for a day out on the beach or in the sun.  

Lips: Although this is a step I sometimes choose to miss, adding a wash of colour to your lips can be an effective way of brightening the complexion. For me, I am always on the look out for a nude lipstick that is easy to apply on the go. Cue MAC - Twig, a soft muted brown/pink that looks perfect for one sweep. 

What products are part of your minimal make up routine?
SHARE:

Wednesday, 22 July 2015

Clarins Instant Concealer |

Clarins Instant Concealer
Clarins Instant Concealer* - 01 | £21.50 | Link 

Every now and again, a product comes along that takes the beauty world by storm, the Clarins Instant Concealer was very much the holy grail concealer of 2014 and one that was continuously raved about. It's not often that a concealer comes along and sweeps me off my feet, however during the past couple of months I have been inundated with a range of concealers that work a treat for my skin type and skin tone.

The Clarins Instant Concealer is a lightweight liquid concealer that sits comfortably on the skin whilst diminishing the appearance of dark circles and optimising brightness around the eye area. Although this concealer is infamous for it's abilities to make dark circles disappear, it can be used to mask anything from redness to blemishes due to it's natural formula which blends effortlessly into the skin. Enriched with caffeine extracts, this formula helps to make eyes appear less puffy, whilst aloe vera soothes and a light Optimising + complex, helps to instantly capture, diffuse and amplify light around the eye area. 

If you're on the look out for a new under eye concealer and a good all rounder, then I would 100% recommend the Clarins Instant Concealer. I use the lightest shade in order to highlight, conceal and emphasise my contour. It doesn't crease or settle into fine lines, it's easy to work with and looks natural with or without a base product. A holy grail and a must have in my collection. 

Have you tried the Clarins Instant Concealer? 
SHARE:

Monday, 20 July 2015

The Bedside Table Edit |

Bliss Hand Cream, Nuxe Reve De Miel, Kiehls's Creamy Eye Treatment, Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
Bliss Hand Cream, Nuxe Reve De Miel, Kiehls's Creamy Eye Treatment, Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
Even though I like to believe that all my beauty products stay in their muji drawers and in my bathroom cabinet, I know in reality they don't. Products regularly venture onto my beside table and despite wanting to keep the area neat and tidy, I usually slip up, having a handful of products at my disposal during my night time routine.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream | £24 | Link | If there's one thing I forget to do at night, it's moisturise my face. Since using the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream I have been a changed woman as this lightweight moisturiser restores the skin's moisture, whilst promoting healthy skin. Now who could miss that at night? Unlike other formulas I've tried, the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream doesn't clog up pores, but instead it deeply nourishes the skin reader for my eye cream. For extra hydration, I spritz the Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist to lightly refresh and soften the skin before applying my moisturiser.

Nuxe Reve Del Miel Lip Balm | £9.50 | Link | This intensely hydrating lip balm has been a staple in my routine for years now. I've gone through tubs and I have them pretty much in every room, so it's not a surprise that one ended up on my bedside table. Enriched with natural plant oils, shea butter and grapefruit essence, this lip balm instantly restores, repairs and nourishes your lips. Once you've tried a tub, you'll begin to release why this is such a beauty cult favourite.

Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream* | £18.50 | Link | I've never been a massive hand cream fan, I've tried all sorts from high end to high street, but the slow absorbing, greasy textures do nothing for me or my hands. When the Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream landed on my doorstep, I thought macadamia oil for your hands? But it works and now I am fully converted. I apply this before I go to sleep and when I wake up, my hands feel nourished and softened

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment | £20 | Link | During the Summer months, my eyes tend to suffer the most and for the past couple of months I have been religiously reapplying the Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment to sort out my dehydrated eye area. Even though the formula is thick and rich, I still find that I can use this day and night. Fast absorbing, light weight and extremely hydrating, there is nothing else that I could want more an eye cream. This unique formula doesn't migrate into the eyes and this 14ml will last you for ages. 

What products are on your bedside table?
SHARE:

Saturday, 18 July 2015

Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask |

Origins Original Skin Retexurizing Mask
Origins Original Skin Retexurizing Mask* | £23 | Link

If you look through my skincare collection, you'll see a large array of face masks. Hydrating, retexturizing, pore minimising, you name it and I'll have a mask to fix it. After the Origins Clear Improvement and Drink Up mask took the beauty world by storm, it comes as no surprise that Origins would release another one - Cue the Origins Original Skin Retexurizing Mask. 

If you're looking for a multitasking mask that will deeply clear the skin, whilst refining the skin's texture, minimising pores and add some serious glow, then you're in for a treat. Although the Drink Up mask packs some punch when it comes to hydration, which this Original Skin mask lacks, the Original Skin mask has quickly become a weekly ritual in my routine. Made with Mediterranean Rose Clay, Canadian Willow Herb and exfoliating Jojoba beads, my skin has never felt better. Unlike other masks which results fade within a couple of days of use, I found that this mask has continued to improve my skin's texture, making it increasingly smoother and softer. Even though the mask does dry and set, I never feel like my skin has been stripped of its moisture, but instead it has been lightly exfoliated and hydrated. 

If you're looking for a good all rounder when it comes to a face mask then I would 100% recommend picking this one up. 

Which Origins mask is your favourite?
SHARE:

Thursday, 16 July 2015

Soap and Glory | Kick Ass Pressed Powder & Peach Party Blush Brick

Soap and Glory Peach Party Blush Brick, Soap and Glory Kick Ass Pressed Powder
Soap and Glory is a brand that I have used on and off for many years. I frequently use their skincare, but it's there make up range that I was yet to venture much into. I've tried the Kick Ass concealer and Supercat liner, but I was itching to try out a few new products. After trialling this duo for a several weeks now and using them on a daily basis, I can now say I am well and truly sold. 

Soap and Glory Peach Party Multi Colour Blush Brick* | £11 | Link | This time last year, I had one or two blushers I used every now and again, but since then my collection has flourished. Can we all take a moment to appreciate how gorgeous the Peach Party Blush Brick actually is? At the moment I can't get enough of peach and coral blush shades that help to emphasise a tan. With a light reflecting, shimmery finish this blush can be used to add colour or to subtly highlight your cheekbones. 

Soap and Glory Kick Ass Instant Retouch Pressed Powder* | £12 | Link | After the Kick Ass Concealer took the blogging world by storm, I knew that this was going to be hit too. With SUPERBLUR™ technology and CAMOUFLAWGE 3DTM, this powder sets my make up instantly, leaving my skin feeling soft and smooth. Although, I have previously used it all over my face, I find this works wonders for setting my under eye concealer too. At first sight, the yellow hue can look off putting, but the translucent powder blots the skin, preventing shine, but it still allows your skin to glow. 

What Soap and Glory products are your favourites?
SHARE:

Wednesday, 15 July 2015

Morning Skincare Staples |

Pixi Glow Tonic, Grown Alchemist Gentle Cleanser, Antipodes Manuka Honey Mask,
For me, establishing a skincare routine in the morning has been a task I've struggled with for a very long time. My evening routine is where I experiment with skincare and switch things up on a regular basis, but in the morning, especially in the Summer I like to keep it to a minimum. Surprisingly, I only use a handful of products in the morning, but today I thought I would give you the run down of the three fail safe products that I use when my skin is feeling lacklustre and in need of some glow.  

Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser | £26 | Link |  During the evening I sway towards cleansers that remove my make up quickly, whilst purifying my skin and eliminating impurities. However, in the morning I prefer a gentle cleanser that will remove grime and get my skin ready for make up application. Cue the Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser. I bought this on a whim one day when I popped into my local Space NK and even since I have been smitten. Packed with a delicate blend of botanical extracts, this cleanser is perfect for sensitive, combination skin. It removes impurities without stripping the skin of it's natural oils, making sure that you skin feels calm and soothed. If you're on the look out for a new morning cleanser that does exactly what it says on the tin then I would recommend giving this a try. 

Pixi Glow Tonic | £18 | Link | The Pixi Glow Tonic has been loved, blogged and raved about by many. I wasn't fast to jump on the bandwagon, but when I did, I knew I'd struck gold.  This exfoliating toner is infused with ginseng, glycolic acid and fructose which helps to brighten, condition and remove dead skin cells promoting glowing, radiant skin. Too good to be true? Not at all. I use this day and night religiously and since being surgically attached to this bottle, I have seen a huge difference in my skin's appearance. I have never known a product to clear my skin and blemishes as quick as this product did. One sweep in the morning, two at night and I am good to go. Even though I will always be a fan of face scrubs, for now, I am well and truly smitten with my new exfoliator/toner hybrid. 

Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask | £21.99 | Link | For me, the morning is all about packing in as much hydration into my dehyrated skin as possible. I had thought about raving about my daily moisturiser, the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream, but I realised that the product I reach for whenever I need to moisturise my skin thoroughly is actually a face mask. Described as an antibacterial, deep cleansing mask, I knew that it was going to be a hit with me and my skin from the get-go. With it's hydrating and cooling properties, this mask fights blemishes, soothes redness and leaves your skin feeling bright, perfect for when you want to create a base for your make up to glide smoothly on to. If you have an extra 10 minutes in the morning to spare, I would recommend lathering this on, your skin will look glowing and feel hydrated in no time.  

What are your morning skincare staples?
SHARE:

Monday, 13 July 2015

Zoeva Naturally Yours Eyeshadow Palette |

Zoeva Naturally Yours Eyeshadow Palette
Zoeva Naturally Yours Palette* | £15.95 | Link

My name is Lily and I'm a neutral eyeshadow palette addict. If you think I'm exaggerating then I welcome you to have a look into my collection. After collecting a few of the infamous Urban Decay Naked Palettes, I thought that I would stop lusting after the browns, coppers and and bronze shades, but within a month I was back online searching for my next fix. Cue the Zoeva Naturally Yours palette, a perfect array of matte to satin finish earthy tones that blend seamlessly onto the lid. 

After reviewing the Zoeva Mixed Metals palette (here) last month, it had me lusting after more of their make up range. This palette, like the majority of their eyeshadow palette range, consists of 10 neutral shades that are perfect for everyday wear. First Love, a matte ivory beige and Casual Elegance, a golden beige shimmer are the two shades I love to run underneath my brow bone to highlight and define. However if you're looking for an all over eyeshadow shade then I would highly recommend Smooth Harmony, a pink beige with golden shimmer and Sweet Sound, a warm brown with golden shimmer to add a subtle wash to your lids. For me, this palette excels in crease shades. Ranging from duo chrome to matte shades, this palette has it covered.  

All of the shades are creamy, highly pigmented and easy to wear. If you're looking for a new eyeshadow palette or if like me, you just wanted to add to your ever-growing collection then I would thoroughly recommend ordering this. Not only does this palette consist of staple shades, but it allows you to create an array of timeless looks that would be suitable for hot, Summer evenings. 

Have you tried any Zoeva eyeshadow palettes?
SHARE:

Saturday, 11 July 2015

Tanning With He-Shi |

He Shi Gold Foaming Mousse, Overnight Ageless Tanning Balm
As the sun is making a regular appearance in the UK, so are the endless bottles of fake tan. During the Summer months, I swap the extra layers of clothing for extra layers of fake tan and this year has definitely been the year of the bronzed skin for me. He-Shi is a brand I have eyed up for many years ever since the hype around Express Liquid Tan, so I thought it was about time I gave a few bottles a try. 

He-Shi Gold Foaming Mousse* | £25 | Link | When it comes to fake tan, I often choose either a liquid or spray formula, so when this landed on my doorstep, I was sceptical and rather scared that I was going to be left patchy and streaky. However, after a few applications I can safely say that this may be the most fool-proof fake tan I have ever tried. Due to the "see where it goes" formula, this makes for an easy application, reducing the risk of missing a massive patch of skin. Despite being lightweight and fast drying, I still find that this formula allows you enough time to work the product into the skin giving an instant golden tan that develops in 6-8 hours. The odourless, moisturising formula is a dream to apply and I reckon that I will be surgically attached to this throughout the Summer. 

He-Shi Overnight Ageless Tanning Balm* | £22.50 | Link | Despite the Gold Foaming Mousse being suitable for both the face and body, I knew that it was about time that I took the plunge and explored the world of face specific tanners. Not only does this product promote a natural look tan, it is packed full of skin-friendly ingredients that do wonders for the skin. Millesis, Jojoba Protein and Hyaluronic Acid work together to boost the skin's moisture and help to prevent the signs of ageing and fatigue. If there's one product that I have used religiously over the past couple of weeks it would be the Overnight Ageless Tanning Balm, I find I wear less make up and the lightweight formula allows my skin to breathe - An absolute must have. 

What He-Shi products have you tried?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED 
SHARE:

Friday, 10 July 2015

Charlotte Tilbury | The Retoucher & Eyes To Mesmerise

Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher, Eyes To Mesmerise Bette
If you've been reading my blog since the beginning then you'll be no stranger to my love of Charlotte Tilbury. The rose gold theme, the never ending shades, and formulas to die for have you smitten from the first application. After raving about the Filmstar Bronze and Glow, Matte Revolution lipsticks and Lip Cheat lips for a fair few months now, I thought it was about time I ventured into their base and eyeshadow products. After seeing The Retoucher concealer and Eyes To Mesmerise range being featured on a range of blogs, I thought it was about time that I plucked up the courage and place an order - Boy am I glad I did.

Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher - 2 Fair | £25 | Link | After searching high and low for a YSL Touche Eclat esque concealer that would both conceal dark circles and brighten the eyes, I came across The Retoucher. The highly pigmented formula with a hydrating complex keeps the skin feeling nourished and plump, whilst the pen styled applicator makes for easy application. The lightweight formula blends seamlessly into the skin, whilst blurring imperfections and brightening the under-eye area. If you're prone to over applying then I would stay clear of this as it is very easy to go a bit click happy, thus making the whole product last about a month if you're not careful. With a buildable formula and a natural finish, this concealer offering caters for all needs and if you're looking for something that'll cover anything from pores to lines then I'm sure that this will be right up your street. Despite being able to go overboard on the concealer, I do believe that this multi tasking product is worth every penny and I'm sure it'll continue to conceal my dark circles for months to come.

Charlotte Tilbury Eyes To Mesmerise Bette | £22 | Link | As an owner of an excessive amount of neutral eye shadow palettes and enough bronze, browns and coppers to last a life time, I never thought I'd would be singing the praises of yet another neutral eyeshadow product - But it's happened. I must warn you that once you have tried one of the shades from the Eyes To Mesmerise range then you'll want the whole lot and to start my obsession off, I knew I had to get my hands on the shade Bette. The long lasting, easy to blend formula had me smitten from the get-go. The bronze/chocolate shade makes my blue eyes pop and due to the buildable formula I find this amazing for when I want to transition a day time look into a night one. The water infused formula has a cooling effect on the eyes, whilst the enriched Vitamin E gets to work on hydrating the eyes, preventing any creasing, drying or fading. If you're new to the Charlotte Tilbury hype, then I would thoroughly recommend checking out the Eyes To Mesmerise range. 

What products have you tried from Charlotte Tilbury?
SHARE:

Wednesday, 8 July 2015

Quick & Easy Lips with Pur |

Pur Pout Pens
Pur Minerals Summer Collection Pout Pens - Fuzzy Navel & Mai Tai* | £14 each | Link

When I first set eyes on these lip stain pout pens I was sceptical about not only the formula, but the application. I thought they would be drying, patchy and uncomfortable to wear, however after a few applications I knew that these were a game changer. 

The hydrating, sheer balm nourishes the lips, whilst the lip stain glides on smoothly and evenly creating long lasting coverage. The precision tip makes for an accurate application, so you can outline your lips like a lip liner and then fill them in, creating a strong wash of colour. Despite being underwhelmed at first by the range of shades that Pur has to offer, I think that Mai Tai, a warm pink and Fuzzy Navel, a pink/coral hybrid are two shades that are perfect for the Summer and would work wonders in contrast with a tan.

If you're looking for a highly pigmented, long wearing lip stain that is comfortable to wear and won't budge for a good 6-8 hours then I would highly recommend trying these out. With the hotter weather slowly making it's way to the UK, I'm sure that I will be getting some wear out of these in the up and coming months. 

What lip stains would you recommend? 

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
SHARE:

Monday, 6 July 2015

Nars Starter Kit |

Nars High End Starter Kit
When you first begin to invest in high end make up it's easy to get lost in a world of double figure single eyeshadows and foundations with prices that make your eyes water. Since my first ever Nars purchase my collection has continued to grow, and although I love all of their products, I would say that their base offerings are my favourite. Today, I have put together four products that are the cream of the crop of Nars offerings and that I would recommend to anybody, whether looking to invest in high end make up or for some new additions. 

Radiant Creamy Concealer - Vanilla| £22 | Link | If you're an avid reader of blogs then I'm sure that you are sick to the back teeth of hearing about this product. Despite getting a bit more into concealers of late, I still rely on a few "do it all concealers" for when I'm in a rush - Cue the Nars Creamy Concealer. This lightweight, buildable concealer is available in a range of shades, catering for even the palest of skins and although I usually don't get along with a wide variety of concealer formulas, I don't find that this accentuates my dry patches or adds any unnecessary oil to my skin. If you're looking for a medium coverage concealer that is a great all-rounder then I would definitely recommend heading to your local counter to get matched up.  

Soft Velvet Loose Powder - Flesh | £ 26.50 | Link | I reviewed this product back in April here and despite trialling an array of loose powders since, I keep coming back to my trusty Soft Velvet Loose Powder. Even though it's benefits are overlooked, the lightweight, non drying properties work a dream for when you want to prolong your make up wear without adding an excessive amount of coverage. Flesh is a shade that suits me in the A/W, however during the Summer months I have been using this under my eyes to set my concealer - Not only does the finely milled powder do this well, it also brightens the area complimenting my contour. 

Sheer Glow Foundation - Mont Blanc | £31 | Link | If there's one product that has been raved about by many it's the Nars Sheer Glow Foundation and for a very good reason too. With a satin finish and medium coverage this foundation is the product I would recommend the most if you're looking for an everyday foundation from Nars. It conceals blemishes, hides redness and due to it being non-comedogenic too, it means that it doesn't clog up your pores either. Even though I would recommend using a base containing SPF in the Summer, if you're looking for a foundation that achieves a flawless finish every time then Nars Sheer Glow has your back. 

Powder Blush - Luster | £23 | Link | Up until earlier this year, I hadn't owned a Nars blush, but that all changed when I purchased Luster, a golden peach shade that had my heart from the first application. Despite Nars being famous for their shades *ahem* Orgasm and Deep Throat, I think that Luster is a shade that is often left in the dark. If you're looking for a blusher that could work as a highlighter, as well as accentuate your tan then I would recommend picking up this shade. 

What Nars products would you recommend to a beginner?
SHARE:

Saturday, 4 July 2015

Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Collection |

Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Collection
Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Bronzing Compact
Clarins Ombre Iridescent Eyeshadow Aquatic Rose
Since it's official launch in May, I have been lusting after the Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Collection. The rich gold, shimmer shades and bronze tones automatically captured my heart from the first application and I'm pleased to report that none of the products I own from this collection have disappointed. 

Aquatic Treasures Summer Bronzing Compact* | £30 | Link | Every year Clarins releases a limited edition bronzer that everyone raves about endlessly and without a doubt I always kick myself for never picking it up. It is fair to say that when I opened up this bronzer it was love at first sight. With four matte shades in one palette, you can tailor your bronzer to your own skin tone or blend the four shades together to create an all over warmth and glow. What sells this the most to me is that not only does it smell amazing and is completely matte, I also find that it creates an effortless natural wash of colour for those 'no make up, make up days' that we all know and love. 

Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base - Apricot & Golden Bronze* | £26.50 | Link | At first I was a bit sceptical about using this product. Don't get me wrong; I love wearing tinted moisturisers and light bases in the Summer, but one that has shimmer in it - No thanks. However, after playing around with both shades for a couple of days I was sold. They can be worn on their own, over your make up or under. Out of the two offerings, I prefer using Golden Bronze as I found that Apricot was a bit too pink for me, however both shades are versatile, dewy and easily absorbed into the skin. I use the shade Apricot under my make up to promote a natural glow and a flawless base and I use Golden Bronze when I want to enhance my tan by mixing it in with my base product. 

Ombre Iridescent Eyeshadow - Aquatic Rose* | £19 | Link | By now I'm sure you're all aware of my love for anything rose gold, so when this landed on my doorstop I may have let out a massive squeal. Rose gold on the outside and inside - I don't mind if I do. The cream to powder formula is easy to work with, soft in texture and long lasting on the lids. This rose hued champagne shade looks amazing against a tan or as an inner corner highlighter for the eye. 

Have you tried anything from the Clarins Aquatic Treasures Summer Collection?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED 
SHARE:

Thursday, 2 July 2015

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream |

Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream | £24 | Link 

When it comes to Summer skincare, I'm all for purifying cleansers, pore refining toners and lightweight moisturisers. Kiehl's is a brand that has a massive cult following in the beauty industry and I wasn't going to go much longer without trying at least one of their items. The Ultra Facial Cream has been raved and recommended to me time and time again, so after trialling it out for a couple of weeks, I thought it was about time that I shared my thoughts. 


The Ultra Facial Cream claims to keep the skin hydrated for 24 hours, reduce dryness and restore the skin's moisture. Too good to be true? Absolutely not. Due to the lightweight formula, this moisturiser doesn't clog pores, but it absorbs quickly into the skin making for an easy application at night. With a range of specialistic ingredients such as antarcticine and imperata cylindrica, your skin is left looking healthy, glowing and replenished. I've never really understood, nor believed that a moisturiser can draw in moisture from the air, but somehow with this one it just works. 


Even though it doesn't do anything out of the ordinary, it really has nourished my skin and I no longer suffer from dry patches when I've applied this. The gel-like formula makes it suitable for use under make up and the lightweight formula does wonders for my complexion. 


Have you tried the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream?
SHARE:
Blogger Template Created by pipdig