Love -X- Beauty

Happy 1 Year Of Blogging

2014-01-04T09:00:00.000+00:00

So exactly a year today was when i first set up ' Love -X- Beauty'. I had no idea on where i wanted the blog to go or what i wanted to achieve from it apart from that i knew i wanted to share my passion of all things beauty and fashion related. I am so so happy in how far it has grown over the year and i still see it purely as hobby and something that i dont want to see as a 'chore' or posts being forced. In the year i have had times where i just completely have writers blog and have found that scheduling posts is my best friend. I love how sometimes i will write out posts in the pure excitement of finding an amazing product that has wowed me so much.

Most of all i just want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone that follows my blog and leaves me lovely comments :) everytime you interact me with i feel so happy and i love blogging so much.

Again following on from my 2014 post i have so many ideas for my blog this year and i cannot wait to share them all with you! i will be coming at you all with a handful of posts.

Happy 1st year of blogging to my blog yayyyyyy!

New Year New start - 2014

2014-01-01T18:52:00.000+00:00

Well hello everyone!! it feels like such a long time since i have properly blogged and its been so weird not writing out posts. To be honest life just completely took over with stress of uni work and enjoying christmas its been left behind but im back :) - Hope you all had a lovely christmas!

2013 has been a strange year for me as ive felt like life has just been plodding along but me looking from a different perspective. I havent felt myself at all and not to sound too down but i havent been enjoying life as i should be. At 22 years old i have been having a so called midlife crisis is whats its seemed. I have had alot more downs than ups to be fair. Just a few weeks ago i thought everything i was doing was just going completely wrong not being motivated or wanting to actually do anything. So ive vowed that 2014 will be so much better.

I want 2014 to be full of laughter, memories and adventures. Doing things last minute that are completely spontaneous! - (I also have a book from Katie Piper who is a huge inspirational person to note and within the book it contains 365 of positive affirmations. Now you may be thinking god she needs to get a grip but honestly the small things like affirmations truely make me feel so much better. I cannot wait to look at it everyday and to not take life for granted.

As most people say every year 'next year will be better - new year new start' i firmly believe its going to be my year in which im going to make it my mission for it to bring me back to life. I have no idea in what i want to happen but its going to be an exciting journey and i for sure want to update you all in what happens along the way :)

May 2014 bring you all happiness <3

'From today i will think about the good things to come in my life, and let go of things that have happened in the past. I can make great things happen'.

Pre & Post Christmas Pamper: Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial |

2013-12-22T09:00:00.000+00:00

There is nothing better then having an hour or so midweek and/or sunday night for a good old pamper. This has been my routine for the past year which has really been working for my skin and also for myself. I find having a pamper makes me relax and just forget about anything for an hour. I like to light some candles and get some music playing. Having this routine also means that i try out alot of products which help to detox my skin. Elemental Herbology has been a brand i have heard so much about and read alot of great things about the products so i decided to purchase the Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial Kit.

The Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial Kit is a three part routine with an exfoliator, clay mask and a hydrating overnight mask. The three masks work perfectly together in getting the best out of your skin to give you a clearer healthy complexion. To start the routine i tend to use the Facial Glow first as it gets rid of the top layer of dead skin cells. Leaving this on for 4 minutes as its packed with AHAs and taking it off with a muslin cloth. After first use of this mask my skin has never felt as soft like seriously silky soft!! I then move on to the clay based mask which is the Facial Detox Purifying Mask - this mask helps get rid of congestion in the skin, refine the pores and basically get rid of anything and everything that has been building up in your skin. This mask isnt overly drying which i really like and leaving it on for 10 minutes it gets to work so quickly. I find that using the Facial Glow beforehand really helps this mask work even better. After the mask has been removed its time to give the skin a huge dose of moisture which is where the Biodynamic Facial Souffle Intensive Hydration and Repair Mask comes in to play. Its an overnight moisture mask which repairs dry and dehydrated skin to renew overnight and get the skin back to a healthy state. This mask is divine its so soothing and helps to reduce any redness or irritations in my skin like blemishes.

After using these three masks in the evening and waking up in the morning my skin looked so clear, radiant and most of all glowing. Any blemishes or congestion reduced dramatically and a huge plumpness to my skin. I can definately feel that these products are going to be a staple in my routine and im really wanting to try more from the brand now ive seen how effective the products have been and the results it has delievered. I am one happy skincare lover!!

Have you tried products from Elemental Herbology?

Five Makeup Product Face - Quick & Easy |

2013-12-20T09:00:00.000+00:00

I have been wanting to share with you all my makeup look that has been so simple and quick to create just using five products.

Before my makeup i will apply a primer to make sure that my makeup stays put all dont long. After using the primer i will then start on my bases which i have been loving using the Vichy Dermablend Foundation in Opal. As its a good skin day i will dot this foundation as a concealer on the parts i want covering up on a small brush. I find that applying some product to the back of my hand as a palette works best and then i use the tinyest amount to cover any blemishes/scars for a more precise application. This has really been working for me and makes me feel alot confident in baring much much natural skin on a day to day basis. I then use the product has a concealer too which i pay on under my eyes.

I then move onto blusher using the Nyc Cheek Glow which is a gorgeous coral shade with a hint of a glow so its a two in one product with a blush and an added highligher. I like to sweep this all over the cheek bone for a natural flush of colour. Im not too sure if they still have this product as i got this awhile ago.

Moving on from blusher i then go straight into my eye makeup. Keeping it very simple with the colour 'bare' i sweep this all over the lid. As im going to be wearing a bold lip colour im keeping the eyeshadow simple with more voluminous lashes. For my lashes i use Gosh - Boombastic which is the best mascara for volume that i have tried. It creates the lashes to look alot fuller without being too dramatic. I use two coats of this which really opens my eyes.

Finally for a pop of colour on the lips i use another product from Nyc which is the shade 'smooch' its a lovely berry red toned colour which really works on my pale complexion.

What are you five makeup products that you use on a daily basis?

Review: Dr Jart+ Water Max Sleeping Mask |

2013-12-18T09:00:00.000+00:00

The winter months i find that my skin is alot more parched and dry in certain area so i try and ramp up the moisture on my face aswell as drinking alot more water instead of hot chocolates!! Hydration masks are a god send for a quick fix whether for 5 minutes or overnight your skin will thank you. A new addition to my mask stash is one from Dr Jart - Water Max Sleeping mask. Having never tried anything from Dr Jart i was really looking forward to seeing how the mask would deliver having read so many rave reviews.

The Mask is an overnight one where you apply 10 minutes or so before you go bed and whilst you are sleeping it gets to work by retaining moisture all night long. Its quite thin in texture so depending on what you refer you could use it as a light night moisturiser or as a more heavy overnight treatment. Its fast absorbing into the skin as it locks in nutrients and moisture. The main ingredient which has alot of skincare benefits is hyaluronic acid which helps to feed the moisture to the skin. This is perfect for all skin types and especially great for dehydrated skin. Even if you dont feel like you have dry a good dose of moisture regularly can really help with your complexion.

One of the things that i have noticed with my skin is that when it receives a huge dose of moisture my skin is alot even, blemishes/scars are starting to heal much quicker and my face looks alot plumped and brighter.

If you havent got into the whole hydrating masks then i would highly recommend this as a starting out one as it so so good at helping your skin with moisture and other benefits it has delivered with my skin.

Would you try this mask? or have you tried the dr jart range?

Review: Payot Pate Grise |

2013-12-16T09:00:00.000+00:00

I have been on the hunt for my perfect overnight spot treatment for awhile now which i thought i had found it until another product that i brought took me by complete surprise. A night sent browsing on the cult beauty website which is something i tend to do alot - you can find so many amazing products that really truely deliver. Browsing the site i came across a product called Payot Pate Grise which claims to be an overnight spot treatment.

Only having heard the brand Payot in passing and is a well known french skincare brand i was really hoping that it would help with my unruly spots. The Pate Grise is an overnight treatment that was developed in 1947 which has been a secret amongst french women who used it to battle blemishes. The winning ingredient is Shale Extract which is an antibacterial and has a soothing feel to the skin. It works to slow down oil product and accelerating the spots lifescycle so it matures and disappears faster. The size of the product is 15 ml at £17.00 which may sound expensive but its going to last awhile as only a tiny dap on spots is needed.

The texture of the product is abit creamy and i like to apply the product with a cotton bud just for being hygenic as i dont want to spread it more onto my face. Once dabbed you go to your sleep and in the morning i just remove any that is left with a toner/water. I use this consecutively for 2/3 nights dabbing on the areas that are red spots or under the skin ones.

I cannot even begin to explain how amazing this product is. After used it for 3 nights in a row a spot that was under the skin had completely vanishes and stopped. Other red spots had developed which had gone and on the way to healing. I have never had a spot treatment that has worked so fast and without having a unsightly smell. I am in love with this product and is a magic in my eyes.

Having said that i do think skincare with blemishes is trial and error depending on how well it works for you skin so i would hope if this product sounds a winner to you too then its worth a try as each skin reacts differently to products.

Painful, red angry spots are a thing of the past for me now having found a product that helps to banish them in less time. So worth it!!

Would you try this miracle of a spot treatment?

Christmas Wishlist |

2013-12-14T09:00:00.000+00:00

I thought i would share with you all a few of the things that have been wrote down on my christmas list. (Yes i still do a list) and apart from these four items the other items on my wishlist are all clothes and food. You cannot spend christmas day without watching plenty of films and eating your body weight in chocolate and cake.

Samsung Gala xy Tablet - A tablet is one of the things i have been wanting since the middle of this year and having had a play around with my dads i thought it was time to get one. They are so handy to carry around at uni instead of my laptop and also will be easy to do blogging on the go etc. I think they are such a good idea and im sure i will be playing plenty of games on christmas day with it. Fingers crossed.

Beurer Foot Bath - The foot bath is something that i am most excited about getting. Not sure if it will be this one but something identical. I love doing my sunday pamper nights and making sure that my feet are lovely. This will be so relaxing on my feet especially with the massaging settings. I have brought awhile back some bath salts so i think it would be nice to use them with this for a mini spa pedicure evening.

Boss Orange Perfume - This perfume is one of my all time favourites and having used the last of it middle of this year its been one eagerly on my wishlist to repurchase. Its a lovely fruity scent and i have had many compliments when wearing this scent. Its not too overpowering which i like and i always think of this scent as holidays for some reason.

Laura Mercier Mini Lip Gla ze Collection - Who can not resist a bunch of mini lip products? these look so cute and easy for an every day lip and to carry around in my bag. I havent tried any makeup products from Laura Mercier so this would be a good start. The dark red shade looks perfect for Christmas Day too.!!

What is on your christmas wishlist this year?

Log Cabin Weekend Away |

2013-12-12T09:00:00.000+00:00

This post is long over due but i had some laptop issues and it just kept getting further delayed. Me and my boyfriend decided to have a mini weekend away at the end of october for a couple of nights in our home from home log cabin. We call it our second home as we have been going for over 3 years now and its just perfect.

The log cabin itself is based in Worstershire, Kidderminster to be exact and its basically in the middle of nowhere. That sounds rather boring but in fact its heaven. Having one log cabin next door and actually in the countryside is somewhat perfect to us. We have been at every season and being near nature and quietness is bliss.

The log cabin itself is called 'Bluebell Lodge'. Its a cabin for 2 people and consists of a open planned kitchen/living room. A cosey sofa, tv& dvd player and a small fire. The kitchen is fully fitted with everything you need like an oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher.

The bedroom consists of a king size bed, a wardrobe and a set of drawers/mirror. Next door to the bedroom is the large sized bathroom which has a spa jacuzzi bath and a shower that has massaging jets. Also a new addition is an outside hot tub which is just simply amazing and so refreshing.

Near by to the log cabin is West Midlands Safari Park which is a lovely zoo packed with lots of things to do and explore the animals. A nearby town is about 20 minutes away.

This is perfect if you want to just get away from literally everything and just been in the countryside. A nearby forest is so pretty to have a little walk around. Everytime i come and stay here it feels like home and i always feel so relaxed after being here. This is my ideal cosy weekend and you have the freedom to make it your own. Sometimes we will just cudle u and watch dvds for most of the day, half a way, go in the hot tub for abit. Go the local pub for some food at the bottom of the road.

Have you stayed in a log cabin before?

Review: Laura Mercier Foundation Radiance Primer |

2013-12-10T09:00:00.000+00:00

A foundation primer is one of the essentials in my daily makeup routine whilst acting as base for my makeu to stay all day without any slipping or sliding it also can help with any flaws. Alot of primers are aimed at specific things like controlling shine or giving you that added glow. I have heard so much about Laura Mercier Primers and thought that i would give one a go.

I decided to purchase the travel size of the Laura Mercier Radiance Primer to see if it worked for me and also it would be a good size to be kept in my makeup bag too. The primer aims to enhance makeup and foundation wear throughout the day whilst adding a slight glow to your complexion. The primer has a pearl tint which creates a soft base for your makeup. Whilst creating a soft base it also smoothes the skin so that the foundation can glide on easily whilst minimising the pores and creating a healthy radiance to the skin. I find using this mainly on my cheeks works best for me instead of an all over primer as it does highlight blemishes even more but i tend to use a seperate primer for t zone any way so i can still get use out of it.

With a light tinted peachy shade to the primer and a slight glow it is the perfect easy way to enhance your facial features. It doesnt have any traces of shimmer or glitter which i really like and i would say that it would suit most skin types and complexions depending on how you like to apply radiant products. It doesnt add any type of coveage but it does act as a good canvas for products going ontop of it. Its a lovely light texture and doesnt clog pores or feel too heavy on the skin.

I absolutely love the formula and even though it is getting colder and light bases are normally scrapped in my routine i think it is worth it. Im so impressed with the product and really want to try out a foundation from the brand next.

Have you tried this primer? have you liked it?

Nail Add Ons: Champneys Softening Hand Scrub & OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener |

2013-12-08T09:00:00.000+00:00

I love nothing more then treating my hands to a good pamper. They always seem to get dry around this time of year more then ever with the central heating and blasts of cold winds daily. My nails have been horrible for a little while and i needed a couple of products in particular to help get things back on track.

Champneys is a brand i have only recently tried with the body butter that has been in a post recently and with it being such a great product i thought i would try something else from the brand. I noticed in boots that they do a hand polisher so i purchased straight away. The Champneys Softening Hand Scrub is a gentle exfoliator that gently softens the skin and moisturises cuticles and nails. I apply this to dry hands and work it in amongst my nails concentrating on the dry areas that surround the nail. Its not a harsh scrub and smells divine. After i have worked it into my nails i also work it into my hands and then i wash it off with colder water. It has a slight oily residue when washing off which the oil acts as a moisturiser and makes the skin feel so baby soft and smooth. I love using this every week to help battle with dryness and it really works. You dont need to use too much and i think at £6 its a good little product to have.

The next product which i have been using in conjunction with the hand scrub is OPI's Nail Envy Nail Strengthener but the mini version. Its a strengthening base coat which helps peeling, cracking and broken nails to get back into full health with wheat protein and calcium. I have been applying this every few days ontop of each coat as directed and have seen such a good difference in the strength of my nails and appearance. I havent been using nail varnish on top for a good few weeks now and aswell as the base coat and no nail varnish it has given that much needed boost. The base coat dries quickly and it has really helped to build my nails strength back up. So i would really recommend if you have dry brittle nails to give this a whirl.

Do you suffer from dry nails and hands?

Book Review: Katie Piper Things Get Better |

2013-12-06T09:00:00.000+00:00

It is very rare that i find a book that i can rave about constantly but i think i have found the perfect read that is so beneficial to myself and has made me open my eyes abit more about my life and the way my mind works. The book - Katie Piper 'Things Get Better' is an incredible insightful read where Katie Piper who has suffered a great ordeal shares her personal stories and the letters that she receives to share her key steps that led to her recovery and helps others in gaining strength to move on whether its a break up, self esteem issues or even a more serious trauma. The book starts from the very beginning when you hit rock bottom and deals with the honest reality of overcoming the obstacles you are dealing with.

Sometimes when you are feeling down in your life we start to feel sorry for ourselves and whole cycle seems to happen where we go from being content and happy but as time goes on we start to decrease in ot mood and then go back into the same thoughts of having to try get back into the happy place. We often hear about how to improve our lifes and setting goals for ourselves and then sometimes we have others tell us how to live but at the end of the day its we decide what to do and how to live.

The main thing that i have discovered from this book is that we have to remember that we are loved but also we are human which means that the good times will come with the bad times. Tough things will come our way and there is now way to avoid them but the key is how we respond to them. We can either sit and complain about them or do something about them.

Is this book something you fancy reading?

Review: Elemis Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask |

2013-12-04T09:00:00.000+00:00

Being a skincare fanatic im always on the look out for another mask to add to my stash to try out and see if it can help in my imperfections in any way. Scarring for me is my number one enemy and is one of the main issues that i try and battle. I have been loving chemical exfoliators for this job in helping to reduce them which has been working so well but i was after a more powerful mask that i could use weekly or monthly.

Having loved the travel size of the Elemis Resurfacing Facial Wash i thought that i would get the travel size in the same range but instead the Elemis Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask. The mask aims to retexturize and smooth the skin with the actuive enzymes whilst targeting blemishes and pigmentation. If using any of the tri enzyme range it is advised to wear spf during daylight hours and no sunbathing/sunbeds either as you are renewing your skin. I would suggest to do a patch test on your inner arm to make sure no reactions do occur.

On application of the mask its quite a thin texture that you spread all over your dry face and leave on for about 10 minutes. Whilst leaving the mask on i felt a cooling tingling sensation which is very powerful but it also means that it really is working. I was a little wary that with the tingling experience that it may sting etc but its not too over baring. Once the mask has been left on i then rinse off with a flannel. My face felt the softest it has ever been and so smooth. Any blemishes had slightly gone done and my pores were less obvious. This mask is amazing especially if you want an even texture to your face or even scarring reducing. With this mask being packed full of enzymes it is alot gentler then an acid peel or a manual scrub so it would be great for people with sensitive skin and inflamed acne but it does suit all skin types.

It honestly is one of the best masks i have used and seen almost immediate results and is a lovely addition to any skincare routine.

Have you tried this mask before or any other elemis products that have won you over?

November Favourites |

2013-12-02T09:00:00.000+00:00

Another month and so close to the end of this year which has completely flown by!! This month has been fairly stressful with uni work and my skin has taken it badly especially with the colder weather too.

The skincare combo that i turn too when my skin is playing up is one that i am so thankful of discovering this year and its the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser and Tea Tree Toner. This duo works so well together in balancing your skin whilst giving it plently of hydration and calming everything down. I like to use this as a mini detox sort of thing where i use just these two products and a moisturiser for a good couple of weeks. It really sorts my skin out and makes it so clear. I also like using these after my so called 'detox' on odd occasions and together they cost less then £10 for them both so its really affordable. The combo is ideal for this sort of weather if your skin plays havoc.

An autumn blush that is a beautiful peachy shade that i have been wearing non stop this month is Illamasqua's Sophie Blush. Its the perfect colour for this season and creates a natural flush to the cheeks whilst giving a glow to the complexion aswell. I think it really compliments my pale skin tone and perks it up. A little of this blush goes a long way so i tend to swirl it around onto a brush and then tap any excess off. Its so easy to apply and blendable. I want to try more blushers from the brand which is on my christmas wishlist!!

Two things from Rimmel which have been my love affair for this month - Rimmel Precious Stones - 001 Diamond Dust Nail Polish. Its so pretty and mesmerizing to the eye. Its clear varnish with added sprinkles of glitter to it and it looks so nice on top of any bold nail varnish to give your nails a touch of glitz. I think this will be a christmas polish for sure on top of a rich red colour. Who can resist glitter? i know i cant!! Keeping with the rich red colour theme for christmas - Rimmel Apocalips in 'Across The Universe' shade is such a lovely shade for the colder months. Even though recently i have been brave to wear bold lips this is inbetween a lipgloss and lipstick which is ideal as i like to use this on the lips but patted in for a subtle tone of the colour. Its such a simple look wearing this with a bold eyelook which i am loving wearing lately.

What have been your months favourties?

Review: Soap And Glory Whipped Clean Shower Butter |

2013-11-30T09:00:00.000+00:00

Soap and Glory is a well loved brand for indulging in as its so affordable and the quality of the products are second to none. Every product i have tried from them i have loved and i always try different products from the brand. With the coldness being sprung upon on us and one of the chores that i hate doing in this weather is moisturising my body. Since using the nivea in shower moisturiser and really loved the concept behind it and also its a great quick and easy way for lazy people like me i was after something similar to try. I noticed that Soap and Glory did a similar product called the Whipped Clean Shower Butter.

The Whipped Clean Shower Butter is a body wash and butter in one which is made of moisture oils and butter such as sweet almond, grapeseed oil, macadamia nut oil and cocoa & shea butters. Its a thick consistency and after you have rubbed it on your body it has a lovely lather to it which has a luxury feel to it. The smell is rather musky but not too overpowering and it lingers on the skin for quite some time. I noticed after my shower my skin felt incredible!! so soft and silky and after a couple of days after using it my skin was still soft. I like to use this twice a week and then inbetween moisturise if i feel like it. A little of the product goes along way and i think for £8 its a reasonable price especially is using it like i am. I love the concept in the in shower moisturisers it really saves a lot of time and is a nice treat for the body.

Its a lazy girls best friend and is perfect for a quick dose of moisture on the go.

Have you tried this product?

Loving Lately |

2013-11-28T09:00:00.000+00:00

I have been loving getting ready for the colder months even thought i absolutely hate it but i like layering and wearing things that are really snug and cosey. Of course i have been loving animal related things always. I have also been loving a fab social platform for bloggers called Glipho which is another place you can share your blog posts and meet other variety of bloggers too. Its so easy to sign up and use too.

- My cat hasnt been very well lately and having him for 15 years i want to treasure him even more. Hes such a loveable character and i think anyone who is cat crazy can relate to how much they are precious. I mean come on look at his little face

<<<<<<<<<

- Had a spanking new phone case from Marc Jacobs here. I love that its silicone but at the same time it really has protected my phone.

- Getting way too excited for christmas this year which is quite unusual for me but i saw this mug and instantly had to buy it. Im going to be drinking my hot chocolate from this and it will be toasty warm with the added jumper too.

- This geek rabbit jumper i saw on milkbubbletea blog and it was so adorable not to get. Its a thickish jumer and i brought it in a bigger size to be more baggy and snug. I have been wearing it contantly around the house on my lazy days.

- Ooh another animal dog related purchae. Seriously it needs to stop but will it? ;). These mittens were a mere £3 from primark abit ago but they do keep my hands warm for now until i wear thicker ones for when it snows etc

What do you think of my animal obsession? ;)

Budget Buiy: MUA Makeup Academy Ever After Matte Palette |

2013-11-26T09:00:00.000+00:00

I like to post about affordable/budget buy products from time to time. I love nothing more then finding a product at a cheap price and wowing me with the results. MUA is a a brand that i have grown to love this year and have built up quite a little collection. I think that with the easy on the pennies and bank balance price tag it also delivers in results.

After being completely won over by the heaven and earth palette that has been featured on my blog a couple of times i thought it was time to invest in another. I noticed that a couple of new palettes had been released and straight away my eyes were draw to the 'Ever After Matte Palatte'. As you can guess from the name the shades are all completely matte which is ideal if you arent a big glitter lover.

The palette has 10 shades that are all neutral colours and consist of warm and cool tones which can be worn alone or blended together.

Shades: Unwrap (white), Butter (cream), Bare (Nude), Taffeta (Peach) , Fade (brown), Penny (bronze), Chino (taupe), Truffle ( chocolate), Fog ( dove grey) , Smoke ( black)

I start off with using two of them as a base colour which is either 'butter' or 'bare' and then choose either 'penny' or 'truffle' as a main colour and then if i am wanting more of an intense crease look then i will have either 'chino' or 'fog' blended in the crease. I then also use 'unwrap' as an inner corner shade and use it under my brow bone as a highlight.

What i love most about the palette is how it is very versatile which can be used either for a simple day look and then you can transform it for an intense smoky evening look without breaking the bank. The texture of the eyeshadows arent overly chalky or creamy they are just in the middle. I find that with using this palette an eye primer is definately needed as the lasting power isnt all day. The shade range is perfect and they are of decent quality too.

For blending they do a really great job but if they were more creamier then they would work alot better but i am really impressed of how well they do. I think using this palette for this season is working so well for me and it compliements wearing a bold lip too!!! ?The pigmentation of the colours are lovely and i find that i am using this palette on a daily basis as it has all the colours i need. I think that MUA have done amazingly well in creating such a lovely affordable product.
Have you brought this palette? what do you think?

Review: Nude Purify Cleansing Wash |

2013-11-24T09:00:00.000+00:00

Ooh look at that ANOTHER skincare review. I just cant help myself as skincare seems to be my pride and joy of late and im loving it. Finding out what works for my skin is trial and error, i never feel like i am completely happy with my skin and always on the hunt on ways to improve it. I have heard so many great things about the brand Nude so i thought that i would dabble into the brand and buy a cleanser. Cleansers are the main part of a skincare routine along with a moisturiser everything else is just an added bonus. I can normally tell after a few uses whether its the right product or not for my skin and i was so impressed with the results from nude.

The Nude Purify Cleansing Wash is a cleanser designed for oily/combination skin types and has a cinamon scent to it which helps to remove impurities and excess oils making your skin more clear and healthy. At first its a like a gel like texture until it comes into contact with water and then its becomes a lovely creamy lather which is just heavenly on the skin. You wet your face first and then gently massage the product and its such a nice experience. I havent said that about a cleanser after a few uses in a long time but its so so nice. I dont use this cleanser to remove my makeup as i want my second cleanse to be really thorough and calming on the skin.

You dont get any tight sensations when using this cleanser as after use your skin feels like baby soft and has a slight healthy glow to your skin. Using this product has really helped with my breakouts but also i just find using this makes me more relaxed for some reason maybe its the cinamon im not sure. It feels very luxurious on the skin and i will happily repurchase. If you are after a more deeper cleanser which adds abit of a luxury feel then this is the one for you.

Have you tried nude as brand?

What's In My Bag (Updated) |

2013-11-22T09:00:00.000+00:00

I thought i would do an updated whats in my bag post seen as ive had a new bag for my second year at uni and it feels right to show you what i carry around with me on a daily basis. My bag is from ebay and its a celine dupe, its all black with many compartments inside and is so ideal as it is the right size for everything to be carried. It had a black strap that you use to carry on your shoulder or take it off. Even though its from ebay its actually very very sturdy and has been tested out in the rain etc. I am in love with this bag and its at a cheap price too here. They come in loads of different colours and variations. The only downside to the bag is the lining as you can tell its abit cheap but apart from that i love it.

My bag has been so tidy lately and this is how its been left - so il start with my purse which ive had for awhile now and its from river island not sure if you can still get it. But i love the nude colour and its the right size for all my cards and money etc. The quality is so good and it still looks fairly brand new.

I always carry some sort of mittens or gloves and they change all the time. These are some white fluffy ones i got from primark and they are so soft and cosey. Think they are around £3 but untill the weather gets really cold then these are staying for now!!

The A4 notepad and the smaller notepad are from whsmith. I love the polka dot spotty print and both of them are so handy to write down my to do lists and also my modules that i am doing to take notes.

The white piece of electronic you can see on the notepad is actually my iphone portable charger which i got from ebay awhile back but there are plenty around from other places. I charge this using my iphone lead to my plug and then it has full battery for any time i need some battery on the go. I would highly recommend these as you never know when your phone may die and infact my iphone battery went abit crazy recently and this was so handy as i broken my power button so if it died i wouldnt of been able to turn it on without it being plugged in somewhere.

My house keys which have been shown a couple of times with my pig key top thing. Helps me to see them underneath all the chaos in my bag usually. Also the black and white polka dot travel holder has my student id and travel tickets. Im so happy i brought one of these so it keeps everything in one place.

The flowery pencil case is another purchase from ebay. Its so different from normal pencil cases and abit more grown up for me which is a surprise from cute animals. Its a good size to carry pens and highlighters with me on a daily basis.

The leopard print umbrella from river island is from last year and its on its last legs but its still going strong. I always need an umbrella as where my uni is it rains alot of the time and especially as i travel to and from uni always need to be sheltered from the rain.

And lastly the cat makeup bag from primark is so handy and such a small size for my bag to carry 'girly' things, paracetamols, deodrant, hand gel, powder, some bits of makeup etc.

My bag doesnt seem to carry alot at the moment but im sure in time it will get abit chocker with many library books etc. I really really love my bag and if you are after a similar sized bag then this would be a fab one!!

Do you like my bag?

Budget Buy: Dove Intensive Repair Conditioner |

2013-11-20T09:00:00.000+00:00

Its not very often that i rave about haircare on my blog but when i find i product that has amazed me so much its worth a post of its own right? Since buying the Dove Leave In Conditioner Spray and also the shampoo i thought that i would try one of the conditioners that they have. I notice the Dove Intensive Repair Conditioner in Boots for £3.99 and thought it was worth a whirl.

The conditioner is aimed to give a deep nourishment to the hair and help to repair split ends and breakages. It has a micro moisture serum which intensely nourishes and seals lifted cuticles against future damage and is packed with all the benefits of a treatment at the quick speed of a conditioner.

First of all i love the smell of the dove products i cant quite but my finger on it but its sort of fruity i guess. I use the conditioner through the mid lengths to the ends and leave it on for a minute. Once washed out my hair feels so soft and silky and generally more hydrated in the ends. I have been using this for a couple of weeks and have really seen a lovely difference in the way my hair looks and feels at the ends. Its so affordable and im only a quarter of the way into the tube so its great value for money. I am so impressed with the dove range and i really want to try out many more of the products. But this conditioner is so quick and simple to use with fab results. Would really recommend if your hair is in need of a boost.

Have you tried Dove conditioners?

Cold Skincare Heroes |

2013-11-18T09:00:00.000+00:00

With the weather getting colder much more quickly and its nearly into the winter months i thought i would share with you the products that i have been reaching for and will do in the colder months to come. As soon as the weather changes so does my skin which alot of time i get much more drier and dehydrated skin.

The Aesop Anti Blemish Masque is an absolute life saviour with under the skin spots. Not saying that it completely makes them disappear overnight but it certainly takes away any swelling and calms it down. I like to apply this directly to any spots instead of a full on face mask which i have done both so its a lovely product that helps to soothe and calm everything down as its packed with chamomile. Its rather pricey but i am only 1/4 through and i used it on a regular basis so i am definately getting my moneys worth out of it.

Next is a new product that i have been using in the last few weeks and something that has saved my skin. Out of the blue my skin has just been awful just really red and painful with spots so i was looking at a new cleanser that would help deal with this. The Origins Mega Mushroom Skin Relief Cleanser is a rich milky concotion full of gentle ingredients that help with sensitive and red skin. Again its another product that helps to calm everything down which is what is needed in this weather lately. You can either wash or take the cleanser off with damp cotton pads and it leaves your skin so soft and silky. Its ideal if you do have sensitive skin as its so gentle and i find its calming to use before bed too.

Another Origins product is the Drink Up Intensive which is a favourite of mine. First of all it smells like delicious peaches and fresh fruits. Its a thick consistency and i love packing this onto my face for a lovely heavy dose of moisture. Everyone needs moisture and i find it helps with any dry patches and heals spots alot quicker too. I use this twice a week to really benefit my skin as it feels quite parched with the coldness and the change up in heat at home. One last Origins product to talk about which again is another staple all year round and its the Make a Difference Plus Rejuvenating Treatment - this is such a good product that really helps to lock in moisture but also give that much needed dose of hydration to the skin. I love using this on a night before my moisturiser for an extra added dose and i really see the difference if i dont use it.

Next is two products from La Roche Posay which has been a welcomed addition to my skincare stash. The Serozinc is a product i have talked about numerous times in the last few months and i use this as a toner which is so good to lock in moisture but also it helps to soothe any irritations that you may have. I can see the hype that it has been given as it really does help to change your skin in the matter of days and its still lasting me a fair while. You can get this online or ebay as its more readily available but its a great one to add in more hydration to your skin on a daily basis. The Cicaplast is a very new addition and is designed to be used if you have had dermatology procedures but even though i havent its a lovely recovery product for the skin as it helps to tackle with dry patches, flakiness and irritations within a couple of days. I recently used this on my neck as i had some sort of irritation from something i must have used leaving me with red and dry patches of skin i used this twice a day for two days and it sorted it out. I use this as primer for my makeup base just on my cheeks where they are dry, it helps to make my base alot more even too.

Last up is a hand cream which i use every day and it leaves them feeling so soft. The Garner Intensive Hand Cream is very much needed in these colder months. Its non greasy and only a tiny bit is needed to help keep your hands soft all day long. Even after washing your hands still feel as though they have been moisturised and hydrated which is something i havent found in many hand creams. Its also really cheap and will last you awhile too.

What are you cold skincare products?

Review: The Body Shop Vitamin E Illuminating Moisturising Cream & Hemp Hand Protector |

2013-11-16T09:00:00.000+00:00

Anyone notice a running theme with Body Shop lately? i just cant seem to get enough of the products that they have. All of these codes and offers they have i just cant resist. I have been wanting these two items for a long time but i have never got round to actually buying them until now.

The first product is the Vitamin E Illuminating Moisturising Cream. My latest post for these range was the facial oil which i love so much and i also have the sink in moisture mask which is another favourite of mine. I love this range and i think it would really help with all skin types as everyone needs added moisture some more then others. Now this cream is slightly different as it contains a slight glow to the skin which is fairly noticeable. The product itself feels abit like a paste to look at but it sinks into the skin beautifully and isnt heavy on the skin. The actual glow is a real winner as it looks like your skin is healthy and perks you up. This is something i would recommend if you have dull skin or if you just want abit of added radiance to your skin with no fuss. It brings it in terms of not being too sparkly but i think for problem skin it can draw our the imperfections more which is way i like to use this just on my cheekbones before foundation and instead of a hightlighter. Its a lovely subtle product that would be great for going out or if you have any special dates and you want to look radiant. At £10.00 or cheaper with any offers they have its a product that i think im going to get a lot of use of.

The next product that was actually a free gift offer going on at the body shop so i decided to try the Hemp Hand Protector. Now the weather is colder my hands are such mess with broken dry skin and even broken nails. My hands just cant take the cold weather. This hand cream is exactly what i needed to sort them out. It really has worked wonder and one of the things that i really like is that even after you have used this and then wash your hands again your hands still feel so soft and moisturised. Im not overly keen on the scent as i think its abit manly for my liking but its packed full of lovely moisturising ingredients so i cant complain if it does the job. Its not greasy at all but it can be if you apply too much and you only need a small amount. Really love this cream and its a must if you have dry chapped hands.

Have you brought anything from the body shop lately?

Review: Iconemesis Iphone Pug Phone Case |

2013-11-14T09:00:00.000+00:00

I love nothing more then changing my phone cases and after another cute one to top the previous one. Ive mentioned a number of times on my blog that i am a big animal lover and so when i was sent a phone case by iconemesis* and asked to choose one i knew it had to be pug related.

The design of the pug pattern is by a talented woman named Gemma Correl who is a freelance illustrator and exhibited all over the world. This being said Iconemesis brings all illustations together and displaying them on phone cases with which you can carry cute designs wherever you go.There are so many designs which you can check out here. You really are spoilt with choice as the designs are amazing.

I have never been so excited about a phone case before but i think from the illustration you can see why as im all about pugs and its just so me. The phone case is plastic and is really sturdy which by accident i have dropped my phone several times and the case has protected it so well. I would really recommend you to have a look at the website if you are after some adorable designs for your phone!!

Do you like this pug design?

Primark Haul |

2013-11-12T09:00:00.000+00:00

So Primark has won again with my bank balance and ive ended up having a cheeky splurge which was a few weeks ago so bare with me in it being slightly late being posted im sure alot of things will still be in stores. Looking at all the things i have brought i sense abit of an animal theme going on. So if you are an animal lover or into cute items then this is the post for you!!

In my other primark haul i shared with you a quilted tshirt and i picked up another one in a gorgeous rich red colour. The quality is amazing and its a thickish tshirt so will be good for layering. I love the small chain detail on the pocked and its a bargain at £6.00.

Because of the weather getting much colder and instead of getting an ordinary jumper i saw this sequin jumper in the corner of my eye and it had to be mine. Its not an overly thick jumper but i got it in a bigger size so i can wear it oversized and baggy. I love the gold sequins as it looks really autumnal aswell. This was £14.00 which i think for what it is slightly pricey but i think it will be a good staple i will wear alot in the colder coming months.

Now lets just pause a minute - this jumper may be looked at as a barbie fantatics dream or tacky but i actually really like it. Its so soft and its exactly the same fluffy design like the cardigans that have been shown on alot of blogs. This is something i will be lounging around in and its perfect!! - £10.00

I have been after another jumper in a colour that i wouldnt normally wear alot of and this subtle mint green colour is ideal. The jumper is lovely and thick with a slashed neck collar. Its another jumper that i will wear oversized and its so cosey. - £8.00

Where so i start with this animal themed goodies?!!

The gold roped necklace is lovely to wear with plain tshirts and i love wearing statement jewellery to make a boring outfit interesting. - £4.00

The dog and panda mittens are adorable so cute. I can tell that these wont last long and im only wearing them before the really colder months hit us but at £2.00 they do keep my hands warm.

I noticed the polka dot travel card holder just randomly thrown in a pile and thought it would be really handy to keep my student id and any train tickets or bus ones etc. Its a waterproof material too so it really protects the cards.- £1.00

The little cute guy you can see as in the penguin is a hand warmer. Ive never seen one of these before and its so handy. Inside the cover is a gel like substance where you boil it in a pan of hot water for 5 mins and then pop it back inside the cover. Its lovely and toasty warm on your hands. For £1.00 its too cute not to have.

Carrying on my footlet collection i needed to have the dalmation ones in my life. They are just like slippers except a thiner material and not as chunky but none the less they keep your toes warm. I used to love 101 dalmations so much when i was little. Its a nice reminder of my childhood. £3.00

I have been after a thermal mug for a little while as i love soup especially in these colder months and they are great to travel with aswell. Again i love dogs and this is too cute not to have for £2.50. Its actually really sturdy and doesnt spill at all its passed the test run for me.

If you didnt know already i am pug crazy and i really want one so badly. I remember seeing the duvet set awhile back on a few instagrams but could never find it in my store so as soon as i saw it it had to be mine. I love the print its adorable and im after another duvet set for christmas time they have some lovely designs at the moment. £9.00

The owl figure you can see is actually a vanilla scented candle and its super cute. Its been decorated beautifully and it reminds me of all these dark nights. I dont know sets the cosey mood i guess. £2.50

Again i had to buy some more footlets like the dalmation ones above the koala bear ones are adorable. £3.50

The two packs of flannels you can see are for when i take my cleanser/masks off etc they are so soft and really help to get rid of everything so easily. £2.50 & £1.50

Last are some cosy socks and super cosy tights. I love stocking up on both of these for winter time. The tight have a lovely fleecy lining in them which are great for when you are wearing dresses keep them legs warm!!

Have you been to primark lately?

Review: The Body Shop Mango Beautifying Oil |

2013-11-10T09:00:00.000+00:00

Having brought this oil recently in my latest haul i have been using it so much and thought it was time to give my thoughts on it. The Body Shop Mango Beautifying Oil is a light dry oil that can be used for the body, face and hair. With an added ingredient for hydration such as marula oil it really helps to boost moisture.

I love using this oil after having a shower as it really packs in the moisture and keeps my skin feeling so soft and supple. With it being a dry oil it is completely mess free, has no greasy residue either and a little goes a long way. The mango scent also lingers on the body which i am in love with.The actual product itself absorbs really quickly and although the size of the bottle is very small i would be willing to repurchase as i do think it could last awhile.

Asides from using it on my body i thought i would test it out on the ends of my hair to see if i saw any results. Using the most tiny amount on the ends of my hair and leaving it overnight my ends felt so silky soft and really nourished. I loved the way it made my hair feel and also the mango scent lingering in your hair is an added bonus.

I love using this oil and its even ideal for travelling and using it for the body and hair. Its so affordable and will last while too!!Its a lovely treat!!

What are your favourite products from the body shop?

Review: Elemis Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash |

2013-11-08T09:00:00.000+00:00

Having blemished prone skin is half the daily battle of my skin its also the scaring that is left behind. It used to really affect my confidence and caking myself in makeup just to hide them which looking back they werent overly bad but i just remember wanting to always hide my skin. This past year i have discovered so many new skincare products that have dramatically changed my skin and keeping it under control which is why now im able to use less foundation/concealer and be able to show my natural skin more which im so happy in doing. A product that has really helped my skin the past month is the Elemis Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash.

The Tri Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash is a product that helps to smooth and renew your skin by removing dead skin cells which will improve your overall complexion. It has a non abrassive exfoliation ingredients which will help replenish moisture levels. I decided to buy the smaller size to try out and to see how well it got on with my skin and im very very impressed.

I use this twice a week on a night because if you do use it in the morning you will need to follow up with an spf with it containing renewing properties and being in the daylight. I splash my face with some tepid water and use a 10p piece and then massage. I love how soft it makes my skin feel with the exfoliation and its so gentle aswell. It doesnt dry out my skin or irritate it in any way. Its helped with clearing blemishes and the texture in my skin is much more even. I think after continued use i will see more of a difference and will buy the full version.

My scarring from blemishes have faded over a week and it makes me feel confident that i get things under control when the whole blemish/.scaring cycle starts again. This is suitable for all skin types so i would highly recommend to give this a go.

Have you tried this product before?