Love Lust & Fairy Dust

BEAUTY BLOG SALE PART 2

2013-05-13T17:48:00.000+01:00

There are still a few items available from last weeks BLOG SALE if you would like to pop over for a browse.

Now onto this weeks offerings.

THE RULES

All products have been purchased by me or have been gifts from family or friends. There are no PR samples or blog prizes in this sale.

Payment by PayPal gift only within 24 hours of requesting the item/s or the item/s will be re-listed.

No returns/refunds so please ask any questions about a product you are interested in before committing to buy.

I will obtain proof of posting but once the product is out of my hands I will not be liable for what Royal Mail do with the package.

UK shipping only due to the recent increase in postage costs.

P&P as stated by each product, Royal Mail 2nd Class. I'm happy to combine postage for multiple purchases.

Items will be sanitised and carefully packaged.

Items will be posted as soon as possible after payment.

If you see something you would like to purchase then email me at jude.dunn@hotmail.co.uk I will then confirm the price of your purchase including postage, please make sure that your paypal account has your current and correct address information.

L-R

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Instant Iris, Swatched £1.50 + £1 P&P

Sally Hansen Insta_Dri Grape Going, Swatched £1.50 + £1 P&P

Max Factor Max Effect Minii Nail Polish in Fantasy Fire x2, Unused £2.00 each + £1 P&P

L to R

Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Wedding Crasher, Unused £2.50 +£1 P&P

OPI Nicole Wear Something Spar-Kylie, Swatched £2.50 + £1 P&P

Revlon Facets Of Fuschia, Unused £2.50 + £1 P&P

L to R

Sinful Colors Folly (much redder than photo) Unused £2.00 +£1 P&P

Sinful Colors Boom Boom (Fuschia Pink) Unused £2.00 + £1 P&P

Ciaté Paint Pots Jelly Bean (Fuschia Pink) Swatched £2.00 + £1 P&P

Benefit Lemon Aid, Brand New in box. £10 plus £1 P&P SOLD

L-R

Maybelline Color Tattoo, Audacious Asphalt, Swatched. £2.50 + £1 P&P

L'Oréal Color Infallible, Sahara Treasure, Swatched £2.50 + £1 P&P

Maybelline Color Tattoo, Tough As Taupe £2.50 + £1 P&P

L'Oréal Color Infallible, Permanent Kaki, Swatched £2.50 + £1 P&P SOLD

Covergirl Classic Color Blush, Soft Mink. Brand New. £2 + £1 P&P

Estee Lauder Pure Colour Lipgloss, Star Pink, Swatched £8 + £1 P&P

Philosophy Orange Sunrise Lipgloss, Unused £3 + £1 P&P

Max factor Lipfinity, Euphoric, Unused. £4 + £1 P&P

L'Oréal Infallible Foundation, Golden Beige, Unused. £5 + £1 P&P

Bourjoise Healthy Mix Serum, 53 Beige Clair, Light Beige, Swatched. £5 + £1 P&P

Colorsport Eyelash and Brow Dye Kit, Unused. £2 + £1 P&P

Eylure Dylash Kit, Unused. £4 + £1 P&P

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers. Used a couple of times, still in box with extra silicone refill pad.

£10 + £1 P&P SOLD

Garnier Ultralift, Unused. £3 + £1 P&P SOLD

L'Oréal Youth Code, Youth Booster Serum, Unused. £10 + £1.50 P&P

L'Oréal Sublime Bronze Ons Day, Unused. £5 + £1.50 P&P

Ambre Solaire No Streaks Bronzer Gel, Light, Unused. £4 + £1.50 P&P

Olay Facial Hair Removal Duo, Unused. £10 + £2.00 P&P

Crazy Color, Unused, Lavender, Sky Blue x2. £2 each + £2 P&P

Got2b Hair Powder, unused. £2 + £1 P&P SOLD

Guerlan Shalimar 30ml, used three times. £15 + £2 P&P

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess 100ml, used twice. £30 + £2 P&P SOLD

Thanks for looking, if anything takes your fancy email me at jude.dunn@hotmail.co.uk

Beauty Blog Link Love

2013-05-11T09:49:00.002+01:00

This My Funny Valentine post is all about nails, glitter, and cats!

Phyrra asks: do you know the Fitzpatrick Scale? Find out why it matters!

If you're looking for the perfect, long-wearing summer gloss, then don't miss Rae's review of a gorgeous, peachy pink with six hour wear over at theNotice!

In this edition of BBLL, MM puts the much-hyped Rodin Olio Lusso to the test. Will it pass with flying colors or leave her wanting more?

Love new makeup brands? Sophie from Makeup Wonderland does too! See what she thought about FM Cosmetics!

Want Ciate's Chalkboard Manicure look but don't have the set? Musicalhouses shows you how to DIY your own chalkboard manicure!

polish insomniac may suck at nail art, but even she can handle these nail tattoos!

Want soft lips? Check out Jenn from spiced beauty's secret weapon.

Prime Beauty gets the perfect bronze goddess look with the new Buxom Hot Escapes Bronzers -- they even smell like the beach!

What products are you loving lately? Pammy Blogs Beauty shares her Spring Favorite Beauty Products!

Jude reviews collagen shots at Love, Lust, and Fairy Dust -- a nightly drink from the fountain of youth!

Gouldylox Reviews thinks the new Moxie Lip Collection from bareMinerals is pretty gorgeous and packed with pigment. Which is your favorite?

What's not to love about a sheer lipstick, especially when it's by Bobbi Brown? Come admire Beauty Crazed's Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color swatches and fall in sheer love!

Did you find the new Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Glove disappointing? Hop over to Handmade Reviews to read her Cleaning Glove review and dupes post.

Free DuWop Try Me Kit worth £40 With Purchase

2013-05-07T21:11:00.001+01:00

From 8^th May.2013 whilst stocks last, you can get this fabulous Try Me Kit From DuWop worth £40 at www.cloud10beauty.com absolutely free. All you need to do is purchase one full price DuWop product and the kit is yours.

Included in the kit are trial sizes of DuWop Prime Venom, Venom Gloss Lantana, Venom Gloss Wisteria, Private Red Lipstick, Lip Venom Original and Lip Venom Pink Shimmer. There are enough products in there to keep you going through summer and beyond.

Head over to www.cloud10beauty.com and claim your free gift from 8th May 2013.

*I am not affiliated with Cloud 10 Beauty.

Esteé Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent Review

2013-05-07T13:59:00.000+01:00

Last week I broke one of my golden rules, I purchased a fragrance without testing it first. Esteé Lauder Bronze Goddess gets rave reviews every year and this year I decided I was not going to miss out.

The fragrance comes in a gold/bronze glass bottle, I have to admit I am not the keen on the bottle, I like my perfume in clear glass bottles.

The fragrance is described as:-

'A sensuous, sun-drenched blend of Bergamot and Mandarin, cooled with Tahitian Gardenia Petals and Coconut, warmed with Amber, Sandalwood and Vetiver'.

I love Amber and Sandalwood and although the fragrance is describes as 'Eau Fraiche' I was expecting it to be quite heady and not too light because of the inclusion of those two fragrances.

The fragrance itself does smell lovely and for that reason I can understand why a lot of people love it. However, it is very light and within an hour the fragrance cannot be detected at all. Had I tried this before buying I would've made the decision not to purchase it.

I think I will stick to my Esteé Lauder Sensuous,which is my most re-purchased fragrance. I'm on bottle number 6 now.

Esteé Lauder bronze Goddess is available at www.debenhams.com and there is currently 10% off making it £40.50 if you go through Quidco you will also get free delivery and 5% cashback.

Will you be buying Bronze Goddess?

What is your favourite summer fragrance?

*Purchased and paid for by me.

BEAUTY BLOG SALE

2013-05-03T17:34:00.001+01:00

Time to make room for some new goodies. It's not until you decided to have a little spring clean that you realise just how many products you have that you no longer use. I have decided to have a little blog sale (or two) I still have a few drawers to sort out and I haven't even started on the nail polishes!

THE RULES

All products have been purchased by me or have been gifts from family or friends. There are no PR samples or blog prizes in this sale.

Payment by PayPal gift only within 24 hours of requesting the item/s or the item/s will be re-listed.

No returns/refunds so please ask any questions about a product you are interested in before committing to buy.

I will obtain proof of posting but once the product is out of my hands I will not be liable for what Royal Mail do with the package.

UK shipping only due to the recent increase in postage costs.

P&P will be £2.60 Royal Mail 2nd Class regardless of how many items you buy.

Items will be sanitised and carefully packaged.

Items will be posted on Tuesday 7th May 2013

If you see something you would like to purchase then email me at jude.dunn@hotmail.co.uk I will then email you an invoice for your purchase, please make sure that your paypal account has your current and correct address information.

Laura Gellar Balance N Brighten in Regular

Laura Gellar Bronze N Brighten in Regular

Used 3 or 4 times

£12 each or both for £20 SOLD

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in Soft and Gentle

used 4 or 5 times, cracked on right hand side (dropped whilst taking this photograph!)

£10 SOLD

MAC Powder Blush in Peachtwist

swatched

£8 SOLD

MAC Amplified Lipstick in Impassioned

Usage as shown approx 80% left

£6 SOLD

MAC Eye Shadow in Satin Taupe

Used 2 or 3 times

£6 SOLD

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in Stero Rose

Usage as shown

I purchased this from a blog sale so cannot guarantee authenticity

£5 SOLD

Mac Special Reserve Highlighter Powder in Rose Olé

Usage as shown

I purchased this from a blog sale so cannot guarantee authenticity

£5 SOLD

Rodial Tummy Tuck

Brand new in Box

Unwanted gift

£20 (RRP £85) SOLD

Sleek Contour Kit in Light

Swatched

£3 SOLD

Stila Stay All Day Foundation and Concealer

Used twice

In Hue

£15

Urban Decay Eyebrow Kit

Used 3 or 4 times

£7 SOLD

Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre in Natural Translucent

Used 4 or 5 times

£15 SOLD

Chanel Soleil Tan Bronze Universel

Used 7 or 8 times with a brush

£15 SOLD

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover in 03 Creamy Vanilla

Used twice

£15 SOLD

New CID i-glow in Coral Crush

Used 4 or 5 times

£12 SOLD

Illamasqua Cream Foundation in CF120

Brand New Still in box

£10 SOLD

Illamasqua Cream Foundation in CFCF210

Swatched

£7 SOLD

Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner

Used 3 or 4 times

£6

So that is Part 1 of the Blog Sale. If anything takes your fancy please or you have a question regarding any of the products then email me at jude.dunn@hotmail.co.uk

Frontcover Cosmetics Metallic Pastels Set Giveaway

2013-05-03T15:00:00.000+01:00

Frontcover Cosmetics are on QVC on Saturday 4th May 2013 at 4pm. Co-founder, Michelle Hoines-White will be there exclusively showcasing their brand new Spring and Summers kits, she will also be giving tips on how to create the hottest looks for the season.

Viewers will have the chance to win a Metallic Pastels Set worth £22.00

Listen out for the question during the show and post your answer on the Frontcover Cosmetics FACEBOOK page.

You can tune into QVC on :-

Sky - 640
Freeview - 16
Virgin TV - 740
Freesat - 80

*I am not affiliated with Frontcover Cosmetics or QVC and I have not been paid for this post.

bareMinerals 12hr Flash Sale

2013-05-02T14:57:00.001+01:00

If you're a fan of bareMinerals get yourselves an absolute bargain today, up to 60% off certain products until 9pm tonight. Must use this link to access this special Flash Sale www.bareminerals.co.uk

*I am not affiliated with bareMinerals and I have not been paid or compensated to post this article.

Beauty Blog Link Love

2013-04-29T14:59:00.004+01:00

Musicalhouses tries out a summer staple (yellow nail polish), and thinks she just might like it!

Phyrra brings you all of the new Silk Naturals Chromatics Cream Eye Colors. Will you fall in love with them?

There's makeup bases, and then there's makeup bases. Don't miss theNotice's review of the super-cool shu uemura POREraser & Brightening Mousses -- these are definitely the latter!

Jude reviews the WrinkleMD Eye Hyaluronic Filler Patch System. Is this really the No-Needle alternative to Botox and fillers?

Bun Bun Makeup Tips wonders why it took her so long to finally try, review, and swatch the awesome Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadows!

Check out the beauty products that Krasey Beauty used for her first bodybuilding competition!

At Musing on Beauty, Mariella discovers a well-kept secret: Laura Mercier Secret Finish. Definitely a secret you want to know!

Addicted to Beauty is in love with these amazing New York-inspired nail art designs. I heart NY!

You don't need to get all the latest and newest beauty tools. Handmade Reviews reveals the best type of kabuki makeup brush for your budget.

Have you ever written a fan letter expressing your love for a cosmetic? Read tofind out what mascara has Beauty Info Zone excited enough to do this.

Beauty Reflections has swatches and a review of the new Dior Pink Glow Nude Tan Paradise Duo for you!

Gouldylox Reviews loves this new palette from Too Faced. It's developed by the Pro Artists at Sephora and each color is gorgeous. You won't want to miss it!

Want sparkly clean brushes in no time? Check out Sophie's cheap dupe for the Sigma Makeup Cleaning Glove!

Kim has joined the BB cream bandwagon & reviewed the Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector Oil-Free B.B. Cream in shade 'Deep'.

Anita's loving the new Laura Mercier Illuminating Eye Colours, they're just perfect for the summer! Check them out over at Pleasureflush!

Jessika from polish insomniac falls in love with yet another stunning polish from butter LONDON.

Lisamarie from Beauty Crazed is now a Guerlain girl to the tips of her fingers thanks to the new Guerlain Colour Lacquers - check out her swatches and admire the luxurious shades!

Jenn from Spiced Beauty shows you her favourite lip gloss that costs under $3.00!
---
Do you change your beauty routine as the seasons change? Check out how Pammy Blogs Beauty tweaks her routine for spring and summer. Plus, enter to win $500 of Jergens products!

Want to take 10 years off your looks? Brighten that smile with the new Oral B Deep Sweep Electric Toothbrush and Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste.Prime Beauty is giving away 5 of them, so hurry and enter now!

GIVEAWAY WrinkleMD Eye Hyaluronic Filler Patch System

2013-04-26T00:01:00.003+01:00

On Tuesday I posted a review on the wrinklemd Eye Hyaluronic Filler System

WrinkleMD were kind enough to send me a WrinkleMD Eye Hyaluronic Filler Patch System 30-Day Starter System worth £150 to give away to one of my lovely readers. If you are of a certain age and have concerns about fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area, or if you have a friend or family member who is concerned about their lines and wrinkles then this giveaway is for you.

This giveaway is for my UK and Ireland followers only.

The giveaway will close on Sunday 19th May 2013 at Midnight.

The winner will be chosen at random by Rafflecopter and announced on Monday 20th May 2013 on this blog.

The winner will have 48 hours to contact me with shipping details, if no contact is made another winner will be chosen at random.

The prize will be posted by myself as soon as the winner has contacted me.

DUE TO THE FIRST WINNER NOT RESIDING IN THE UK AS PER GIVEAWAY RULES I HAVE NOW DRAWN A NEW WINNER AS SHOWN BELOW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*This prize was provided by WrinkleMD

Collagen Shots Review

2013-04-25T18:48:00.000+01:00

In August last year I became involved in a conversation on Twitter with @CollgenShots about their new anti-ageing drink. I was very intrigued and during the conversation a couple of other people joined in and started singing the praises of this miracle nightly drink. I had a good read of the information on the website and then had a look around the internet for reviews and decided that I needed to try this for myself. I ordered that afternoon and the product arrived the next morning.

Collagen Shots were developed by Kathryn Danzey, she has 37 years in the beauty industry and certainly knows her stuff. Her aim was to make a potent product that worked and was available to everyone. Collagen Shots has 10,000 mgs of Marine Extract Collagen per serving, Acai Berry, vitamins B3, B5, B6 and C and Hyaluronic Acid.

One pouch will last for 30 days and comes with a measuring scoop. You just mix one scoop of powder with water and drink before going to bed. You can mix the powder with juice or a smoothie if you prefer but I quite like the taste of it with water. It has a very diluted berry juice taste to it. I find it easier to mix in a jug with a whisk as there is a tendency for it to go lumpy if you try to mix it in a glass.

For the first 2 weeks of taking Collagen Shots I didn't notice much difference in my skin and to be honest I was expecting to wake up one morning and find that all my wrinkles had vanished in the night.

The first place I noticed a difference was on my shins, I must admit at this point that although I am constantly paying attention to my face and showering it twice daily in luxurious lotions and potions I totally neglect my body. I tend to have baths that are too hot and only apply body lotion when I'm on holiday. As a result I have crocodile skin on my shins, my arms and thighs are usually crying out for moisture! The skin on my shins was transformed, very smooth, lovely and soft. Not long after that I noticed that by bumpy thighs and upper arms were also super soft and bump free, even my husband commented on how lovely my skin looked and felt.

The skin on my face definitely felt soft and there was a very subtle softening of the lines around my eyes. By the time I was on my second month of Collagen Shots I started to notice that the fine lines around my upper lip were not as noticeable. I stopped taking Collagen Shots in November after I became unemployed and within a few weeks my skin had lost that lovely softness that I had come to love. Happily I am now back on Collegen Shots, just over the 2 week mark and the softness is returning. I cannot tell you how happy this makes me.

Collagen Shots are currently £36 for a 30 Day supply (£1.20 Per Day) If you purchase 3 packets you get free shipping, International Shipping is also available. To find out more about Collagen Shots visit www.collagen-shots.com You can also tweet them @CollagenShots

* I am not affiliated with Collagen Shots,

Hydraluron Moisture Booster Review

2013-04-24T15:00:00.001+01:00

Along with Eyesilix from Indeed Labs, Hydraluron Moisture Booster is a product that Beauty Bloggers raved about and was also a product I didn't purchase straight away as I wasn't sure whether or not it was a product I wanted or needed. Most of the reviews were from bloggers with very young and beautiful skin and I wasn't sure a more mature blogger like myself would benefit from this product.

After loving the Eyesilix I decided to purchase Hydraluron and see for myself. First of all I was surprised that it was only a 30ml tube for £24.99 but in hindsight this was probably a good thing. If you're anything like me when I have a 100ml tube of product in my hands I always use 2 or 3 times more product than I need to. With Hydraluron if you're left with a sticky feeling face you have definitely used too much.

This product contains the world's purest Hyaluronic Acid along with a Bio-Engineered Marine Red Algae, this causes an increase in blood circulation, this helps the penetration of the Hyaluronic Acid into the deep layers of the skin, the Hyaluronic Acid then refills in the spaces caused by ageing and improves the structure of the skin.

You use this morning and night before any of your moisturisers, you can just apply to the really dry areas but I apply it all over my face/neck and chest area. If you have applied the correct amount then you will feel nothing on your face but if you have applied too much you will be left with a sticky/tacky coating. Once you have applied your normal lotions and potions on top you will notice how brighter and plumper your skin looks almost immediately, with continued use the skin feels super soft and just looks well rested and hydrated. You will notice how much less of your usual products you use too.

This is definitely worth the £24.99

If you are concerned about ageing or dehydrated skin then you need to pop this product into your routine.

Hydraluron is available from Boots

Now the only thing left for me to try is Peptabrite, have you tried this, would you recommend it?

*This product was purchased and paid for by me.

WrinkleMD Eye Hyaluronic Filler Patch System Review

2013-04-23T18:30:00.000+01:00

Many months ago I was sent WrinkleMD Eye 30 Day Starter System to review. At the time I had just had Botox around the eye area so I wanted to wait until that had worn off until I started to review this product so I could give a true account of the results that I had.

So four weeks ago I used WrinkleMD Eye for the first time.

Inside the box you get an activator pod, 6 sets of Hyaluronic Filler patch sets and a drawstring bag to keep the activator pod in.

WrinkleMD use a patented Infusion Technology which delivers a concentrated boost of Hyaluronic Acid deep into the surface of the skin and much deeper than topical serums and creams. Strict clinical studies showed a 15 times greater reduction in fine lines and wrinkles than a leading anti-aging serum. Results were measured using silicone replicas and the VISIA complexion analysis. the studies also found that after 40 minutes use 95% of participants experienced a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, softer, smoother looking skin, after 4 weeks 95% of participants had firmer younger looking skin and deep set wrinkles were significantly reduced. Some very big claims there, so as you can imagine I was very keen to give this a try.

The product is very easy to use, attach the activator pod buds to the patches, peel off the patches, apply and press gently onto the skin, tuck the activator pod cords behind your ears and clip the activator pod onto clothing. When both patches make contact with the skin, the activator pod light will turn green and blink throughout the treatment, after 40 minutes the light will flash red and turn off. After treatment discard used patches.

For an intensive two week power treatment it is recommended to use the patches twice a week for the first two weeks and then one treatment a week for maintenance.

I found this system very easy to use and was pleased that I didn't have to worry about timing the treatment. In the instructions it states that you may feel slight tingling from one patch to the other but I didn't feel anything whilst using the system. After the first use I noticed that the eye area was very hydrated and felt very soft. After two weeks intensive at twice a week and then two weeks at once a week I have noticed that there is an improvement in the overall look of my eye area. The skin definitely feels much more hydrated, the fine lines have faded significantly and the deeper lines don't appear to be so obvious.

This is a very easy treatment to do at home, the visible results are very subtle, this is not an overnight miracle treatment but with continued use the results are accumulative. The results will never match the almost immediate results of Botox but if you are looking for an alternative to the needle then this may be system for you.

For more information you can visit universitymedical.com where you can read more about the clinical trials and results and see some very impressive before and after photographs.

WrinkleMD is available in the United Kingdom from www.harrods.com RRP £150 for the 30 Day Starter Kit and £100 for the Refill Patch Kit (2 month Supply). It's also available at shop.nordstrom.com for £89.66 and £68.81 for the refill Pack. In USA it's available from universitymedical.com and of course Nordstrom.

Now I've just worked out that for a 12 month supply it will cost you £750 However, if you have Botox and you are paying £250 every 4 months (maybe more if you live in London) then it works out the same for both.

I haven't decided yet whether I am going to continue using this system or go back to the Botox. What would you do? Are you a fan of Botox or would you prefer to spend the same amount on a no-needle method of anti-aging?

I have a 30 Day Starter Kit worth £150 to give HERE.

*PR Sample

Lanolips 101 Ointment Review

2013-04-22T14:47:00.000+01:00

I think I have just found my hero lip product for 2013. I know I'm a little late to the Lanolips party but oh my goodness does Lanolips 101 ointment live up to the hype!

I have been trialing the new 'purse size' Lanolips 101 ointment for that past 3 weeks and I can't tell you how much I love this product.

It has an exclusive formula that is able to hold over 200% of it's own weight in moisture and this means it works very quickly to help relieve and repair dry, cracked lips. It gives a lovely glossy finish to the lips but also works well as a base for lipstick. Lanolips 101 has a multitude of uses, for instance it can be used on the eyelids and cheekbones to add a subtle sheen, it can also be used to get your unruly brows under control. There is no real taste or scent to this balm, it just feels amazing, stays on the lips really well and does what it claims to do. After having a cold last weeks this worked wonders for the sore, dry skin around my nose.

Lanolips 101 is made with Ultra-Pure Medical-Grade Lanolin, it is cruelty free and is safe enough to be used on newborn babies.

This has definitely earned a permanent place in my handbag.

Lanolips 101 Purse Sized is available exclusively at www.victoriahealth.com RRP £7.99 9g

*PR Sample

LVX Spring Collection Nail Polishes

2013-04-19T20:45:00.000+01:00

The New LVX Spring Collection Nail Polishes are now available from www.cloud10beauty.com

L to R Viridian, Indigo Bleu, Citrine, Fantom, Cerulean, Azalea

All of the polishes are Cruelty Free, Long Lasting, Chip resistant, Free From Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, DBP, Toluene, Camphor and harsh toxic chemicals. These polishes are suitable for Vegans. The polishes are available now from www.cloud10beauty.com for £10.99 each.

Bargain Alert

Whilst stocks last the LVX Winter Collection is Buy One Get One Free, 2 polishes for £10.99 at www.cloud10beauty.com

*I am not affiliated with LVX or Cloud 10 Beauty.

Beauty Blog Link Love

2013-04-14T19:35:00.001+01:00

Phyrra shares her picks for the best photography and video equipment for beauty and fashion bloggers. From handbags to cellphones and lights, she's got you covered!

Jenny tries her hand at an Illamasqua I'mperfect inspired speckled eyeliner look at My Funny Valentine.

Musicalhouses does an Emerald Color of the Year Eye Look, and throws in random musings on this whole Color of the Year business, too!

Rae thinks she's found the one Spring 2013 blush that you need. Don't miss her review of this gorgeous violet-scented face palette over on theNotice!

Jenn from Spiced Beauty shows you how to get dewy skin in seconds!

Handmade Reviews reveals how skin color and contrast can contribute to signs of aging.

Looking for a reasonably priced BB Cream? Gouldylox Reviews has the run down on most brands available at drugstores!

At Musing on Beauty you will discover pictures, swatches and a review of the five new Makeup Geek eyeshadows. Check them out!

Love Frederic Malle's Lipstick Rose? Kim from Makeup by Kim Porter has found an affordable dupe!

Beauty Crazed discovers that Sally Hansen InstaGel Strips are not so easy that even a spaz can use them - check out guest reviewer's Sam and her inaugural strip experience!

Jude reviews the GlamGlow Exfoliating Mud Mask on Love, Lust, & Fairy Dust -- with not so glowing results!

Watch SmashinBeauty make Pablo Picasso's The Weeping Woman painting come alive on her face.

Love a bright lipstick? Midnight Violets has lip swatched all her favourites for you!

Looking for a sophisticated and lovely new scent? Pammy Blogs Beauty reviews Valentino's new Valentina Assoluto.

Prime Beauty has rounded up the best of spring's beauty launches just for you!

Don't know what to get at Sephora's 15% off sale? Then head over to Beauty Reflections to see a few of the new Sephora Colorful Eyeshadows in action! Some of them are worth getting, especially with the discount!

Whether you're a redhead, blonde or brunette, you'll appreciate the gorgeous shades in these Whiphand Cosmetics lip palettes. Beauty Info Zone loves these so much that they're offering a giveaway for these, too!

Indeed Labs Eysilix Instant Eye Rescue Review

2013-04-11T14:35:00.000+01:00

Whilst waiting for a train at London Euston I found myself in the tiny Boots store with the intention of buying a bottle of water, heading to the water stand this little product caught my eye. Indeed Labs Eysilix Instant Eye Rescue. Having read gushing reviews about this product I couldn't resist popping one in my basket.

It claims to instantly lift the eye area, reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, fatigue and crows feet. Well my expectations were high to say the least.

I applied as instructed, I was straight away disappointed that I didn't experience a satisfying tingle and there was no visible lifting of the eye area. I carried on using the product everyday for about a month and although it was a nice eye cream and kept the area well hydrated I just didn't see any of the benefits claimed. I decided to go back to the eye cream that I had been using previously and just put it down to 'one of those products that just didn't work for me'. I was in for a shock, 3 or 4 days after I stopped using Eysilix my eyes looked terrible, my dark circles looked darker than I'd ever seen them, there was puffiness, my whole eye area just looked dry and crepey. Could it really be that Eysilix had actually worked. I started using Eysilix again and I'm happy to report that within a week the dark circles have diminished considerably, there is no puffiness and the eye area just looks brighter and smoother.

This product is definitely one of those that you don't know how good it is until you stop using it.

I have just purchased my second tube, which is unheard of for me, I usually try the latest thing in eye creams and then move onto something new. I don't think I have ever purchased the same eye cream twice.

Pop over to www.indeedlabs.com where you can read for yourself the science behind Eysilix along with the ingredients.

Indeed Labs Eysilix Instant Eye Rescue gets a great big thumbs up from me. You can purchase this product from www.boots.com RRP £24.99 for 15ml or 2,499 boots points.

*This product was purchased and paid for by me.

GlamGlow Exfoliating Mud Mask Review

2013-04-09T19:56:00.002+01:00

I read umpteen rave reviews about the GlamGlow Exfoliating Mud mask last year. I was a bit sceptical to be honest as the majority of the reviews I read were from lovely young bloggers that already had gorgeous skin. It was only when I discovered that the mask was sold at www.feelunique.com at £39.99 with free p&p instead of the RRP of £49.50 for 50ml that I caved in and ordered it.

Well you probably all know by now that this is a thick dark green mud with flakes of green tea in it.

You apply to cleansed skin and leave for around 10 minutes. The mask dries hard to a light green colour, At this point you can dampen the mask and lightly massage the skin, the pumice in the mask gives an effective exfoliation effect or you can just rinse the mask off.

It is stated that the mask is an anti ageing facial in a jar and will deliver a 3 day glow.

Well, as a cleansing and exfoliating mask it is very effective, I noticed a slight tingling to my skin as I applied it, so anyone with very sensitive skin should maybe give this a miss. The mask sets very hard within 10 minutes, I then used a little warm water to moisten the mask to use as an exfoliator before removing with a flannel. My skin was slightly pink for around 30 minutes but had been very effectively cleansed and exfoliated. There was a slight glow to my skin and my make up applied smoothly but this effect did not last for 3 days and my skin certainly didn't feel like I'd had a facial.

Did I like this mask? Well yes I did like the mask but I wasn't really wowed by it, I certainly wasn't £50 a jar wowed!

Would I buy this mask again? No, I get better and longer lasting results from Elemis Fruit Active Rejuvenating Mask, which is half the price.

Have you tried GlamGlow?

Do you use a mask regularly that gives you similar or better results than GlamGlow?

*Product purchased and paid for by me.

Mariah Carey By OPI Collection

2013-04-09T16:54:00.000+01:00

The new Mariah Carey By OPI Collection is now available from www.cloud10beauty.com

The collection features 8 new limited edition shades. there are 4 Studio Shades and 4 Stage Shades

A Butterfly Moment from the Studio Shades

Sprung from the Studio Shades

Anti-Bleak from the Studio Shades

Pink Yet Lavender from the Studio Shades

Stay The Night from the Stage Shades

Can't Let Go from the Stage Shades

Get Your Number from the Stage Shades

The Impossible from the Stage Shades

As with all OPI polishes there is no DPB, no Toluene and no Formaldehyde. These polishes also have the exclusive ProWide brush for easy application.

They are available at www.cloud10beauty.com for £9.50 each and there is also a mini collection available.

Will you be trying any of the above shades? What do you think to the liquid Sand polishes?

*I am not affiliated with Cloud 10 Beauty or OPI.

Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo & Conditioner Review

2013-04-07T12:36:00.000+01:00

I've never tried anything from the Philip Kingsley range so I was really keen to take up the offer to trial the Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo and Moisture Balancing Conditioner.

I've had issues with my hair over the past 12 months, this has mainly been due to the menopause and a slightly underactive thyroid. My hair became really lack lustre and was also falling out. Once I had been on HRT for a few months the shedding stopped and the condition of my hair improved over time but I don't have the volume that I once had.

Firstly, the shampoo, it is a clear gel like consistency that smells lovely and fresh and is very unisex. I live in a hard water area so I am used to having to use lots of shampoo to get any lather at all in my hair, with this I only needed a small amount to get a heaps of lather. Whilst washing my hair I could almost feel my hair thickening and by the time I got to the second wash it felt as though my hair had doubled in volume, I couldn't believe it.

Now, a word of caution about the conditioner, DO NOT use this at the root of the hair or you will run the risk of sporting the greasy hair look. Only use on mid lengths and ends of hair, use sparingly and rinse thoroughly. If used correctly this really does put moisture back into the hair, I use lots of heat on my hair to get volume into it and as a result the ends of my hair are really dry, this conditioner has really addressed that problem.

The only problem I have found is the caps on both bottles. I do not have manual dexterity problems but I struggled with the caps, It's difficult when in the shower to find the lip where the cap opens so I now open the bottles before getting into the shower.

One of the best places to purchase the 'Philip Kingsley' range is from QVC, whilst there have a look at their 'Beauty Products' department for a whole host of products at really great prices.

The shampoo normally retails at £15 for 250 ml and the conditioner at £18 for 250 ml but you can purchases both for £25 plus p&p

Although these products are probably more expensive than your normal High Street shampoo and conditioner, if you are trying to address a specific problem then they are definitely worth the investment. I no longer need to use thickening mousse and thickening spray on my hair, so the money I have saved on those products makes this duo affordable.

*PR Sample

Sampar 3 Day Weekend Review

2013-04-05T15:10:00.000+01:00

You know what it's like when you get on a flight and your mission of the day is to buy something, anything from the Duty Free magazine, well Sampar 3 day Weekend is one of those purchases. Whilst browsing the magazine I spotted this product and was intrigued so parted with £30 immediately.

I wasn't sure what the product was for, what was in it or what it was going to do for me.

Lets just say I was very pleasantly surprised.

This is a moisturising gel with a tan activator. It claims to increase melanin levels by 32% and will even work without the sun. This product is not a self tanner and results will vary on the skins natural ability to produce melanin.

Now the first time I used this I was actually on holiday but I was really impressed with how it performed. I used this instead of my normal moisturiser under a very high SPF sun cream. I hardly ever tan on my face but using this I had the best tan I've had.

I have used this periodically over the last couple of months when I am looking and feeling a bit 'Peely Wally' (if you are from Scotland you will know what that means, if not google it).

I have since purchased several other items from the Sampar range after seeing the reviews that Thom from www.manface.co.uk has blogged about. I will be reviewing these products in the near future.

You can purchase the whole Sampar range at www.feelunique.com they offer free shipping and a free sample of another Sampar product when you spend over £20

Beauty Blog Link Love

2013-03-30T20:35:00.001Z

Nail junkies: don't miss Rae's coverage of the (very cool) YSL Tie and Dye and YSL Jade Impérial La Laque Couture polishes over at theNotice!

Bun Bun Makeup Tips shares an expensive lesson learnt: be careful when you buy electrical appliances from the U.S. if you are in Singapore!

Do you have what it takes to win at the Nail Art Olympics? Addicted to Beauty is in awe...

Ever have a self-tan mishap? Read all about Krasey Beauty's!

Tired of poorly-formulated, silicone-laden BB creams? Musicalhouses explores the new Kiehl's BB cream!

FabDiva20 has been loving the most gorgeous bright lipsticks for the season! Check out her Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids swatches Part 1 and Part 2!

Jenn from Spiced Beauty swatches the new Benerfit core collection! Check out her opinions on the new products.

Ever tried a fig fragrance or dreamed about people chasing you with blowtorches? Over at Makeup Morsels, MM puts the spotlight on Diptyque Philosykos and dream interpretation.

Underwater Pinup is a new thing. Think it sounds impossible? Impossibly glamorous, you mean! Check out the new Aqualillies collection from Tarte on Gouldylox Reviews!

At Musing On Beauty, Mariella tries the L'Oreal Mythic Oil Shampoo...and kills the myth!

At Love, Lust, and Fairy Dust, Jude reviews a home waxing kit for the face from Veet. This one actually works!

The Pammy Blogs Beauty MAC Matters Challenge continues! See how Pammy is building her MAC Core Collection with (less than) $21 a Month.

There's a lot of buzz about Flower Beauty, but Beauty Info Zone says some some of the pollen has fallen off the flowers. What's up with that?

Cheeky Monkey Nail Polish have names that help bring out the slutty side of Lisamarie from Beauty Crazed. Not that her slutty side needed that much help, but come admire her swatches anyhow!

Still looking for an emerald eyeliner to wear? Then head over to Beauty Reflections to see a couple in action from the Sephora + Pantone Universe Collection!

Phyrra shares 40 new ways to get addicted to the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils!

Head over to Makeup, Beauty and More to read about the new NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Rikugien!

Manuka Doctor Apiclear Foaming Cleanser

2013-03-27T13:35:00.000Z

Well it would appear that the 'buzz' word in Beauty Land this year is Bee Venom. This brand is loved by celebrities and royalty and quite frankly, if it's good enough for them then it's good enough for me.

Purified Bee Venom is harvested from the bees in a humane process that doesn't harm the bee and this magic potion is then used in the product range. There is a lot of scientific information and a video of the process available at www.manukadr.co.uk

The products are split into three ranges, Apiclear, Apinourish and Apirevive.

Apiclear Foaming cleanser is designed for skin that is prone to blemishes. It promises to reveal a more radiant complexion by ridding the skin of impurities and controlling the build up of toxins, excess sebum and dead skin cells. The addition of Purified Bee Venom will help to eliminate spots.

As well as Purified Bee Venom the foaming cleanser contains Manuka Honey, Papaya Extract, Shea Betaine, Tricholsan and Phyoncide Water.

This is a very thick cream that foams nicely when mixed with a little water. It cleanses the skin effectively without any dryness or tightness. I am lucky enough not to have any blemishes so I cannot comment on how this product works on blemishes. I should mention that if you are allergic to Bee stings then you should not use this product.

Also available in the Apiclear range are a Repair Gel, Serum, Toner and Moisturising Lotion. You can view the full range at www.manukadr.co.uk

Manuka Doctor Apiclear Foaming Cleanser is available to purchase on the website for £17.99 and is also available at Superdrug.

*PR Sample

Meet Leona Lewis, Body Shop Brand Activist

2013-03-25T23:40:00.000Z

The lovely Leona Lewis is the new brand activist for the Body Shop. On Wednesday 27th March 2013 at 12 pm Leona will be launching her new, limited edition, cruelty free range of make-up and fragrance at Westfield, London. She will also be signing the Cruelty Free International Global Pledge to support an end to animal testing for cosmetics forever.

If you would like to meet Leona, then just turn up at the Body Shop, Westfield, London, make your purchase and get in the queue.

You can share your photographs on the Body Shop Facebook page at www.facebook.com or on their Twitter page at www.twitter.com

*I have not paid been paid to feature this press release, nor am I affiliated with Body Shop.

L'Oréal Paris Préférence Mousse Absolue

2013-03-25T17:43:00.000Z

L'Oréal Paris Préférence Mousse Absolue is the first re-usable and ready-to-use permanent hair colour.

At last, no more throwing away half used bottles of hair dye if you have short hair or just want to top up you roots, or you want to ombre the ends of your hair. No more buying 2 boxes of hair dye and throwing half of the second one away if you have long hair.

The packaging was 10 years in the making.

There are 26 components.

There are 14 colours to choose from consisting of varying shades of Blonde, Brown and Red. There is no messy mixing involved, you just shake the aerosol and apply the non drip mousse directly to the hair. the mousse then turns into a cream and can be massaged through the hair with the fingers. After using just replace the applicator cap with normal cap. There is also an after colour conditioner and gloves supplied in the box.

one box will give 2 full applications on short hair, 1 application and touch up on mid length hair and 1 complete application on long hair.

I was sent the very light natural blonde, but as my hair is brown I will be passing this one onto my mum and purchasing the natural medium brunette to try myself in the very near future.

You can find more information at www.loreal-paris.co.uk

L'Oréal Paris Préférence Mousse Absolue is currently on offer in Boots and Superdrug for £8.99 until the beginning of May, it will then be £10.99

Have you tried this yet? I'd love to know your thoughts on it.

*PR Sample

Veet Face Precision Wax and Care

2013-03-22T15:44:00.000Z

At last, a home waxing system for the face that actually works!!

Veet Face Precision Wax and Care system is so simple yet perfect for those little waxing jobs that don't require a salon sized wax heater.

The pack contains what looks like a double ended mascara wand that unscrews in the middle.

The pink tube contains 10ml of wax and the white tube contains 5ml of after care cream.

You also get a packet of a 50 wax strips and and applicator.

The instructions are so simple, just boil the kettle!

Now I have tried all types of hair removal over the years, tweezing, threading, depilatory cream, sugaring and hot and cold waxing. I definitely prefer the hot/warm wax method. I know it's not painless but it's quick and effective. Last year I reviewed the Veet Easy Wax Electrical Roll-On Kit, you can read the review HERE and I'm still using that system today. The Veet Face Precision Care and Wax is a perfection addition to this as it is designed to be used on eyebrows, upper lip and chin area.

After being immersed in boiling water for one minute the wax is ready to use. It applies easily and the applicator can be used at this point to spread the wax into a thin even layer. Apply the wax in the direction of the hair growth and then use the strips provided to whip it off in the opposite direction. If you have never used wax before then start of with a small area. Please try not to go over the same area more than once as this can cause irritation. The soothing after care cream is lovely and cooling. I have used this wax on my eyebrows and upper lip and and had the kind of results that I would expect if I went to a salon. During the treatment I popped the wax back into the cup of hot water so that it stayed at an optimum temperature.

The wax contains natural ingredients including Almond Oil to help moisturise and nourish the skin. The after care cream contains Aloe Vera to soothe and moisturise.

This little kit is perfect for taking on holiday to keep you hair growth in check. All you need is a cup of hot water.

Veet Face Precision Wax and Care retails for £9.99 and can be found at Boots, Superdrug and most major supermarkets.

For more information and tips on this and other Veet products pop over to their website at www.veet.co.uk

*PR Sample