Pinch Your Cheeks

Yankee Candle Tart Melts

2012-03-08T18:49:00.000Z

The difference between candle tarts to your usual candles are that they do not have a wick and therefore can be used on an oil burner. I have been meaning to try out Yankee Candle Tart Melts for ages now, I searched on ebay and settled for buying some from the seller hazydaysforever.

I bought a bulk order of 10 different scents from a choice of about 50 smells, and my package came through the door within a couple of days.

"Yankee Candle Tart Melt in Gardenia"

I am currently using a ceramic oil burner from The Body Shop which I already had. I thought I would be adventurous and mix two scents to burn - I setteld for half of 'Gardenia' and a quarter of 'Spiced Orange'. I found just using my hands to snap them was half easier (lazier) than using a knife.

The tarts made my entire room smell lovely for ages. I think that if the dish of my burner was larger, the scent would have been more intense. But as I already have this, it will have to do for now. I am making a list of the scents I like as I am using them up so that I know which to repurchase next time - as well as try out some other ones. So far, I can tell that the ones I will enjoy the most are the 'clean smelling ones' such as 'fluffy towels', 'fresh cut roses' etc.

These Candle Tarts are meant to last for up to eight hours, and the scents are also available in larger, candle versions - I believe that this ebay seller has a whole range of Yankee and room - smells stuff. Below is a pretty good guide on how to use candle tarts.

If you try any out, let me know what you think and which you would recommend!

p.s. I have placed the remaining bits of the open tarts inside my wardrobe as a freshner as I sometimes do with my Lush products.... and its works!

MONEY / Méké Menété

2012-03-05T14:43:00.000Z

I know almost nothing about this band. There is not much information about them on the net except that they have changed their band name a few times and the hail from Manchester (rumour has it). I kind of like this sense of mystery - makes the music even more mysterious. I don't they have released many songs but the stuff I have heard, I love. I especially adore the two songs below. The music and lyrics are haunting. The line 'New York is winking at me' in particular from 'Goodnight London' makes my heart yearn to go back to the Big Apple. So may memories, so many memories of that place. Oh but the lyrics as a whole are pretty amazing.

They seem to be a pretty intelligent and a politically conscious band which is always a good thing in my opinion. Anyway, although not to everyone's taste, I think this is some of the most exciting music I have discovered in a long time.

GOODNIGHT LONDON

LETTER TO YESTERDAY

Check out their facebook. Some solid (albeit scarce) information available on MONEY. Always has interesting writing and pics. Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

https://www.facebook.com/courtesyisafallacy

Things I like

2012-03-02T13:22:00.000Z

I bought myself a new desk, rearranged my make up collection, made some more space in my room to concentrate on kick starting a second career. And I just can't seem to get into it. For some reason, it seems more fun to plan holidays, watch Judge Judy and actually enjoy the weekdays not having to watch it go by through an office window.

Actually, ANYTHING else seems to be more interesting than working at the moment (even spending time with relatives). I am lucky I have a small amount of savings which I can eat into, so maybe I should just enjoy being a lazy bum for a while (but not for too long).

Any hoot, another post on a few things I am really liking at the moment.

L-R: B&BW hand gel, Eve Lom Lip Balm, Bourjois Foundation, Forever 21 earrings

Bath & Bodyworks Ani-Bacterial Hand Gel
There is something about spending money shopping abroad without having too much concern about price etc. Its almost like it is not really money. Does that make sense? This is what happened to me when I went to a Bath & Bodyworks store in USA recently. I went nuts in there and spent a small fortune on sprays, lotions and soaps. I got really excited about discovering pocket-sized hand sanitizers that smell lovely that I bought loads for myself and and gave some away as gifts to friends and family. I have not come across this type of product anywhere here in the UK (I can't usually stand the smell of hand gels) so maybe that is why I got a bit happy when I saw them. The one I am currently using is called Midnight Pomegranate and has cute little floating beads in it. I know it is just a hand gel, but I really think it is great! I think they were $1.50 each and were on offer at the time. If ANYONE knows where I can get Bath & BodyWorks stuff in the UK, please, please let me know!!

Eve Lom Kiss Mix
This has a pretty thick consistency so I like applying it about half hour before I put on my make up for it to sink in well before I apply my lipstick. It gives a bit of a tingly feeling and therefore helps plump my lips slightly (although that might just all be in my head). Very moisturising for dry lips.

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation
I have always been impressed with every Bourjois foundation that I have tried. I have also tried the other, foundation version and I love it as much, The only reason why I have the serum at the moment is because it works better for me in the winter as it is slightly more moisturising. This stays put all day and does make my skin look healthier. Its costs less than a third of the price of some of the other foundations I have - plus Bourjois does not test on animals - bonus!

Forever 21 earrings
Forever 21 do some really good reasonably priced jewellery - which is very important to me as I lose/break necklaces, earrings etc all the time. I just think they are really cute.

Hope you your day is slightly more productive than mine :)

Miracle of the Chanel Pressed Powder

2012-02-26T23:01:00.000Z

I went away for a mini break a few months and when I got to duty free, I realised that I had left my Laura Mercier translucent pressed powder behind at home. I coincidenlty (!) happened to be sitting by the make up and perfume section and thought I'd look to see if there is a coloured pressed powder that I could pick up. I settled for the CHANEL POUDRE UNIVERSELLE COMPACTE and I am so glad I did. This has to be one of my most favourite make up items ever.

I have this in 'Translucent Shade 3'

I apply it at home with my MAC 150 brush, and press with the sponge applicator when I'm out and about (I pop over to a Chanel counter every now and then to pick up sample replacements of the applicator).

It gives a light coverage, and I love how it helps provide a natural, even toned and more smoother complexion.

I can be heavy handed with it as I don't feel that it looks cakey at all. A definite Love.

To carry on with the powder theme, another great find - and happened to be freeish, is the Clinique Blended Powder

It came as part of one of those Bonus TIme products - where you buy two products and get a bunch of stuff free. It is loose translucent powder which is so finely milled its almost like air. I buff away with this, and it smooths any lines, helps keep make up set and just evens out the face. It also gives a healthy glow which is a huge bonus. I have a friend who has some scars left from childhood acne - she will just have this over some concealor during work days and and her skin looks all lovely and smooth!

Most disappointing makeup product ever...

2012-02-20T22:37:00.000Z

... actually, this is the most disappointing make up product I have experienced in a very very long time. It is the Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain and Balm.

I am a big fan of lip and cheek stains and like trying out new ones. Although I was under no illusion that I would end up looking like Jessica Biel if I wore it - she looks sickeningly gorgeous in this Revlon ad:

I was however hoping that the pigment would be strong and bold, and was pretty excited about the balm part.

So here is mine;

I got this in the colour 'Flame'

First of all, the plastic packaging was a nightmare to take off. I understood that it had to be extremely airtight as to not dry out the pen part. So I was okay with that. But then I opened it. The balm fell off with the lid.

I put the balm back on but it keeps falling off every time I try and apply it directly from the stick

Basically, the balm does not twist down - so you have to be really careful when taking the lid open or the balm just breaks off. Silly packaging, but I thought of well, I should have been more diligent. What disappointed me completely was the colour pay-off. The first application was fine. But then it completely dried up. The swatch below is after keeping it standing for a week.

I only got one proper use out of it and I ended up throwing out today.

What a waste of £6.

Shopping!

2012-02-19T16:12:00.002Z

What a completely unoriginal title for this post...

I got back from California last week and my suitcase is still at the foot of my bed, waiting to be unpacked. I finally decided to do it today, but after just taking my shoes out, I've already had enough. I hate the packing, travelling and unpacking that comes with holidays. I am really tempted to leave a lot of the stuff in there ready for my next holiday which is in over a month's time. But that would be just TOO LAZY - even for me. Anyway, I thought I would take a break from the - ahem - the unpacking, and write up a quick post on a few things I picked up recently.

Jaeger black mini shorts

The sale in Jaeger in ridiculously amazing. You can pick up a real bargain from it. I picked up these shorts for £20 which were originally £100!

They were exactly what I was looking for and sit pretty well around my rotund hips. They are very short - even with black opaque tights - so they will only come out for very special occasions and with a casual top to dress it down.

Primark lace cardigan (£8)

This didn't look very nice on the hanger but I fell in love with the peachy colour and thought it would help dress up a casual outfit. I wore it to the Breakfast Club last week over a pair of black skinny jeans and a white vest top. Blurry picture below.

Fossil Vintage Handbag

Got this little treat during my trip to California. It was about $230 but was on sale for half the price. I love the colour, I love the size but hate the fact that I accidently left a half eaten sharwama in there when I look it out last week :(

On a side note, my trip away last week was exactly what I wanted. My friends (who moved there years ago) and their friends (who I had never met before), were beyond hospitable. They are coming to visit the UK in summer and I have no idea how I will repay them back. This trip restored my faith in humankind, and I am truly glad that I have some really wonderful people in my life. I bought back loads of Almond M&Ms and Bath and Beauty products which are still in my suitcase. Once I manage to unpack, shall post the products here.

Things I'm loving at the moment

2011-10-20T15:00:00.000+01:00

No7 Radiance Boosting Hot Cloth Cleanser

I have been coming home quite late a lot recently and this is what I keep reaching for on those evenings. It takes off everything, really quickly and causes no irritation to my skin whatsoever. I really love the fact that you can see how much product you have left (unlike the Liz Earle cleanser tube - only downside I hasten to add). Its about £9 from Boots.

Aloe vera gel
Especially for 'the time of the month'. I slather it on my breakouts at night and seems to calm them down by the morning.

I get mine from Holland & Barratt

Batiste Nude Dry Shampoo

I love how I can volumise my hair with this when applied to the roots. I end up with a messy, wavy head. Great stuff. You can get this from a whole bunch of places.

Green tea

I thought all green tea tasted the same. But I was wrong. I am trying to cut down on coffee because of my inability to sleep for more that four hours in a row. I have taken to drinking more water, and try and drink at least two cups of green tea a day at work. I bought these from a stall at a Japanese festival I went to recently. Green tea is the only ingredient in it, and it is delicious.

Bloomin' October Heatwave

2011-10-14T19:30:00.000+01:00

So this crazy heat wave during October in London has come and gone with a blink of an eye. Fingers crossed we get another one before the year is out (I am trying to ignore the global warning issues for this moment). All the John Kettley and Michael Fish successors are hinting at it.

The heat and lashings of sun had actually caused my orchard plant to flower - first time in two and a half years. How gorgeous are they?

This weather has also made me discover Pink Lemonade from Marks & Spencers. I am addicted to the stuff and it looks very pretty too.

There is something about the sun that makes people happier and fluffier and nicer. For me, summer of 2011 was that heatwave in October.

Two

2011-10-05T10:33:00.004+01:00

Lazy weekend

2011-10-03T22:16:00.000+01:00

The weekend has been hot, hot, HOT. In fact the whole week has been scorching although I missed most of it as I have been stuck in the freezing air conditioned office.

I went up to Hampstead Heath with some friends for a picnic and sun-lazing. It was not as heaving as I expected it to be which was great. Hampstead Heath is gorgeous. A friend of mine got chatted up by some random stranger who was walking around with a massive tear on the side of his sorts. So huge that you could see his underwear. It was hilarious watching.

After an outdoor lunch, we made our way to Shoreditch and hung around for a bit until we ended up at this place where the band below were playing.

I've got to say, Black Manila Flamingo Drive nearly burst my ear drums. I am sorry to say they were sooo bad live. But sifting through the bad guitars and keyboard, the guy has a pretty good voice and the music did sound a bit Jam-esque. Maybe it was the sound system that made my ears bleed, but I think I will google search them to see what they are really meant to sound like.

Sunday, lazed around with the little nieces in the garden eating ice cream and watching them ruin my make up brushes and eye shadows because they were giving each other makeovers. I didn't even have the energy to scream at them so they carried on and demolished a whole eyeshadow palette with their fingers. The six year old nephew later ran into the garden and jumped on top of me whilst I was snoozing to show me his latest Dr Who purchase and searching for my iPhone to play City Farm (I only found out recently that the cheeky little monkey made a separate folder on my phone for his games). Again, I did not have the energy to get him off me so I just lay there for half hour whilst he rambled on about sonic screwdrivers. In the evening I managed to get ready and head over to my friends for a Shisha, indian tea and movies.

It was a pleasant weekend, but I did feel a bit weird at times. Could not put my finger on it. I think it must be me trying to settle down being single again. Or maybe I'm worrying myself how quickly I think I am getting over it. I have made sure I have kept myself busy since it all happened, once I slow down then I can have a think of what the heck the next chapter of my life needs to be. Because this new freakin' chapter has been a long time coming.

Anyway, hope you are enjoying the heatwave in the UK, as we have been told to bring out the wooly scarves and thick coats for the end of the week!

Lots of love

x

Bargain buys

2011-10-01T11:08:00.000+01:00

I have been trying to go to the gym regularly now for the past seven months. I decided to join one next to work so i wouldn't get lazy and not go after work if I joined the gym near home. I haven't been too bad actually as going with a buddy does help. Well, I'm trying not to think about the recent 5 week lapse. I'm getting back on it.

I don't know if anyone else has the same problem, but my my gym bag seems to be really heavy with products - I carry around so much stuff other than just the gym kit such as shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, crams, lotions, makeup etc. I did use to carry small decanted bottles around me but somehow the fuller size products seem to have creeped back into my bag.

Anyway, as I don't want to take my expensive things to the gym with me, I have come across some real beauties that are dirt cheap. So here are a few of my proud finds:

Boots Coconut and Almond Shampoo

This cost freakin' 99p! Amazing stuff. It leaves my hair soft and clean and smelling lovely. I haven't tried out the conditioner, but I tend to use my Moroccan oil after coming out of the shower anyway so that works as my conditioner.

I am pretty fussy with my hair, with all the dyeing and blow drying damage, and I think this stuff works great

Natural High Brightening Eye Cream

Contains Organic Rosehip Oil, and other things to help brighten the eye area. I have to say, it does help. I love how it easily sinks into my skin after the shower and brighten it to make me look fresh-eyed. I don't know if it does anything more that provide a temporary cosmetic effect as I have been using it only a couple weeks now, but I really like the effect it gives. Bargain at £2.49 considering the most I have spent on an eye cream has been over £80 and did crap all to improve the dark circles around my eyes.

Sleek Makeup I-Divine 12 Piece Shadow Storm

I had initially bought this because I wanted easy to wear eye shadows and a good black. Most of the bottom ones have broken beyond repair due to it travelling in overnight bags etc. So I thought I'd have it in my gym make up bag for those times I go out straight after a workout. They are very well pigmented and I find that they apply really well with just my fingertips. These palettes are great value for money at under seven quid.

So these are my bargain finds. I would really be interested to know what people take to the gym with them so that it will give me inspiration on how to pack lightly!

Side note: I never thought I'd say this ever, but I really enjoy the gym and I can see a big difference in my mood if I haven't been for a while. To be honest I probably am not doing enough to actually lose weight as my diet and general lifestyle is still rubbish, but when I feel down, down a strong coffee and spending twenty minutes on the treadmill really helps bring things to perspective.

Hope you enjoy your weekend what ever you do.

xx

Being single again

2011-09-18T13:12:00.001+01:00

Well, I'm back in the world of being single again. I have just come out of one of the most normal relationships I have ever been in. He was kind, and funny and lovely and sensible. At a time when my life was spiralling into crazydom, he came along and pulled me to to a world that other people seem to always have.

He is definitely what I needed to help me bring back my faith in humankind. I enjoyed the simple things we did and even if once in a while, I went back to my loud self, he didn't even flinch. So I began to think that maybe there could be a future with him.

But as I said, he is sensible. Far more sensible than me. He does not live in cuckoo land like I do half the time. Staying together was not realistic. Too many sensible reasons to go into but needless to say that I am very sad about it.

I wish we were able to work things through and live happily ever after. But it was not meant to be and I can leave this relationship not having any bitter feelings for him. Because we ended it before it got too messy and before we ended up resenting each other.

I am so glad I met someone like him and I am grateful for the time we spent together. We did the usual 'lets stay friends', I wish we can but.... maybe not now.

I have always felt detached from the real world and with him, I felt like I was part of it for that short while. He probably doesn't know how much he means to me at a whole different level. There is no point in telling him. He'll forget me in a couple of months as people do in the real world, and I will be so jealous of the girl he eventually settles down with.

I just hope my girlfriends pull through for me during this time. I don't want to go back on the dating scene, as I don't think I will find anyone as kind as him. Also, trying to meet someone is so exhausting. I don't know how anyone else does it. Even one of my mates who has been virtually a hermit for the best part of four years found a man who wants to be in a serious relationship with her the moment she went out of the house!

This post is dedicated to those of you who are single, or those who have ever had to let go of the best thing that ever happened to you. And this post is also dedicated to the boy who will never read this.

Space NK Private (not so private) Sale

2011-06-23T21:02:00.001+01:00

Yesterday, Space NK held a private sale for their Indulge card holders. I couldn't make it because I was in the mud in Hyde Park, with seven other merry friends, dancing away to WHITE LIES, PAUL WELLER and KINGS OF LEON.

Drunk Caleb!!

Fantastic day beginning to end. I digress...

So, from today until saturday, this sale is open to everyone. I popped down there today for a browse. They have some amazing Laura Mercier makeup and it took all my strength not to buy any because I really should finish up what I have.

In the end I picked up a couple of skincare products from a line I have never heard of before - Zelens
The sales assistant was raving about them, saying how great they were and that the reason why its so cheap now is because Zelen is repackaging their products. I don't know why, so I believed her. And picked up the eye cream. Was originally £121, on sale £60. This is still the most expensive eye cream I have every bought in my life. But I am desperate for a miracle cure for my troublesome dark circles.
Its full name is intensive triple-action eye cream, and comes in a box. Inside you get a leaflet and 15 ml worth of product in a sturdy glass container.

The other thing I bought for £25, originally about £150 is the advanced luminescence serum. I still am in love with the Darphin Serum which I am still using, but I just got sucked in and got this. I'll probably use this one at night as my Darphin serum also acts as a great base for my make up.

I have just got home and looked for reviews on Zelen products. There are not a lot, and they are mixed. I have put my faith in the Space NK assistant and hope I haven't just squandered £85 down the pan.

I'll start using this stuff tonight and let you know how it goes. In the meantime, if anyone has had any experiences with Zelens Skin Science products - I would be really interested to hear your thoughts.

UPDATE - Sept 2011
Both products now used up. Pretty quickly may I add. Absolute waste of money.

Quick note

2011-05-28T20:16:00.000+01:00

Just to say, I haven't stopped blogging. There are loads of new things I have picked up and want to write about. Loads of different experiences I want to share. Its just, I don't know where time is going at the moment.

I am hoping to sort myself out over the next couple of weeks and re-start the blogging again

Have a lovely bank holiday everyone :)
xx

Darphin Melaperfect Serum

2011-04-02T21:46:00.000+01:00

I am really excited about this product. If anyone had read through my blog posts, they will know that I am obsessed with having clear, even skin tone. Being of Indian origin, I am more prone to darker areas around the skin and brown spots. I have a few clusters around the sides of my face which I yearn to get rid of. Since using sunscreen over the past year, I have noticed that it has helped stop the formation of new ones. But I need something that will help reduce or even get rid of the existing ones.

The Darphin Melaperfect Anti-dark spots perfecting treatment claims to help combat these two huge issues of mine. This serum contains a patented 'Trametes mushroom extract' which helps minimise the appearance of pigment marks.

I would say the serum is just a tad thicker than the others I have been using. I like that I can put on my face cream straight after using the serum as it absorbs immediately into my skin without leaving any sticky residue. My skin feels really soft and smooth after the application, and I find that moisturiser just glides after using this.

So does it work? Well, I have been using it only in the night time for about three weeks now and I love how my skin feels in the morning. I can definitely see an improvement to its texture since using this as my skin is looking and feeling smoother. My dark spots are still there BUT I have noticed that the area around my mouth looks a bit more even to the rest of my face. An exit review will be in order to see whether or not it has worked. It will be a while though as I only need a pea size amount for each application. So far, I am loving it, my skin is loving it - I have high hopes for this!

Its exclusive at Space NK at the moment, but I think it goes nationwide in a few months. It is a bit steep at £57 but this will last months and months and months. But serums are always a bit more expensive. Plus, its one skincare product (along with eye cream) that I don't mind splashing out on.

Dior Skin Nude Foundation

2011-03-30T22:44:00.000+01:00

My Chanel Vitalumiere bottle has been scraped clean, with my Mac Face & Body and Nars Sheer Glow almost at their end. So I decided to go out and get myself some new foundation. Contrary to many popular reviews, I found the the Chanel and the Face and Body did not like my skin much. I feel the F&B a bit too sticky and heavy for my skin, and Chanel - well not a good colour match for me amongst other niggly things. I still like the Nars one, and probably will get another bottle once I've finished mine.

I popped over to House of Fraser and skimmed pass the Dior counter. An assistant saw me eyeing up the DiorSkin foundation and asked whether I wanted to try it. So yes I did. She matched me to 031 Sable/Sand which I thought would be too light at first. But on my skin it blended in pretty well. I liked the finish so bought myself a bottle.

Here is what it says about the foundation on the actual Dior website:
Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup - Containing nearly 40% water, this fluid foundation offers an instant sensation of well-being. KSin appears fresher, silky and feels more comfortable. Thanks to micro-droplets of water, this foundation's coverage is lighter than a “classic” fluid formula, and it evens out the complexion and makes it appear more radiant and transparent. With daily use, the skin becomes more beautiful for an ever more natural and radiant result day after day.

I have only used it for about three weeks but I love it. Its not too dewey which I like, has spf 10, soo light and lasts a good 6-8 hours without rubbing off on my clothes. The coverage is great. I have some awful blemishes round my chin area because of a small outbreak. This foundation covers it up well without the need for much concealer and without looking like I have caked on make up. It still lets my skin look natural.

I am really pleased with the effect, and I have had a couple of compliments on my skin when I have been out with it on. A big thumbs up for me!

More Body Shop Stuff

2011-03-13T18:30:00.001Z

I treated myself to a few things at the Body Shop last week

Vitamin E Lip Care SPF 15 (£4)

Does a decent job of keeping my lips moisturised. Plus it has spf - bonus

Tea Tree Blotting Tissues (£4.50)

I have already mentioned this on another post. I restocked because I love them. They take away the afternoon shine in a clean way. It takes away excess oil ready for retouching make up for the evenings out straight after work.

White Musk Eau De Toilette 60ml (£14)

I have always had one of these for years now. Just a nice, cute and clean smell.

Aloe Soothing Day Cream for Sensitive Skin (£9)

This is for my gym kit, for when I shower straight after the gym (just recently joined). The assistant said this might be the best thing for me as it is light and won't clog the pores which is what I need for my skin at that time. I tried a sample of this in the summer and I really liked it.

Also, because £15 of the products was skincare, I got a full sized Vitamin C Microdermabrasion (worth £12).

Review to follow once I've tried it out.

The lovely assistants (at the branch near Selfridges, Bond Street by the way) also gave me a sample of the Aloe calming toner and Blue Corn Scrub Mask to try out. All this for £12 is a bloody great bargain in my eyes.

Beauty Bloggers Backstage - 7 questions with K from Cosmeddicted.com

2011-03-08T20:39:00.011Z

This month, I have been paired up with the lovely K from Cosmeddicted.com I asked her seven questions, here are her answers:

1) I am obsessed with getting flawless skin. Any recommendations?

Three things have really made a difference:

(1) getting enough sleep,

(2)drinking tons of water, and

(3) taking Vitamin E capsules. After 10 days of taking Vitamin E capsules, my skin and hair looked totally different!

2) How do you get rid of blemishes / acne scars?

Again, water! Also gentle exfoliation and whitening products.

3) What is your typical skin care routine like?

- wash face with cleanser

- use japanese toner on cotton to make a homemade sheet mask

- leave sheet mask on for 15 minutes - remove, apply light moisturizer

4) What beauty items do you always carry with you in your makeup bag or purse?

Oil blotting sheets and lip balm. If my bag is slightly bigger, I'll have a lipstick, lipgloss, and powder in my bag as well.

5) Do you wear sunscreen over your moisturiser but under your foundation? Does it cause any problems with keeping makeup in place when you do use the sunscreen?

I apply moisturizer, then sunscreen, then foundation. I allow enough time for my moisturizer to sink in by doing other stuff. For example, I change into my clothes after putting on moisturizer. Also, I pick a sunscreen that leaves a powdery finish.

6) How long have you been blogging for and what got you into blogging?

I just hit my 2nd blogversary a few days ago! I got into blogging after reading a lot of beauty blogs written by other Asian girls. I'm really happy that I got to know them and even meet some of them!

7. What is you favourite high end and low end make up brand?

That really depends on the product! For skin care, I love the Rohto Gokujyun line, which is super affordable in Asia. I love the Barry M Dazzle Dusts that I picked up in the UK. I love the Sleek iDivine palettes, although I hate their customer service. For mascaras, I never use high end products since drugstore products are great and I need to throw them out very 3 months anyway. My favorite is the Cover Girl Lash Blast (the original in the orange tube), but I'm enjoying the Maybelline Volume Express Colossal as well. It's hard to pick a high end favorite. I feel that products really need to deliver on their claims for me to want to shell out the money for them.

Have a peruse around her blog, its full of informative and fun stuff!

Origins Ginzing Eye Cream and other stuff

2011-03-05T21:48:00.000Z

I was browsing though the Boots website, ordering my usual everyday supplies (like shampoo, cotton wool etc) when I came across an amazing Origins offer. Its the 'Origins Good to Glow Ginzing Eye Gift Set' which is exclusive to Boots online. The set contains:

Ginzing Eye Cream
Full story Lash Loving Mascara
Duel Ended Lip Gloss
Pretty decent sized toiletry bag

I have been on the look out for another eye cream as the two I am currently using are okay, but are not helping combat the depressing dark circles. I have already used one of their night eye creams which I liked, but not loved but I have heard a lot of good things about Origins eye creams in general. So I thought, I might as well try the Ginzing one out as one of it's main features is to beighten the eye area.

It contains ginseng to hydrate and reduce puffiness, with shimmery silica and mica illuminaors to brighten and minimise the look of dark circles. On the Origins website, the full sized 15ml costs £20. Now on the Boots website, you get the full sized 15ml eye cream with the bonus mascara, lipgloss and wash bag currently for a grand total of £12.50!!!!!!

Definitely worth having a try out.

Lipgloss swatches

Aveda Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother

2011-02-26T19:45:00.000Z

I might have mentioned this before, I have been dyeing and highlighting my hair nearly since I have been 14 years old. Naturally, all this has taken it's toll on the condition of my hair and I decided six months ago to chop and dye it all jet black so that I can start all over again. I am liking my black hair at the moment but may go back to being lighter in the summer. My goal at the moment is to start strengthening, and healing my damaged hair. I don't like using many products because my hair is still pretty thick and feel that most things weigh my it down. However, I am using a couple of things like moroccan oil, and I have now started incorporating the Aveda Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother into my routine now.

My hair is all pretty broken where I kept putting in highlights so at the moment, it gets a bit flyaway on the top. This stuff helps control these problems. Especially during this crazy windy weather. It claims to:

"tame frizz and defend against humidity for up to 12 hours thanks to our breakthrough plant infusion formula that creates a smooth surface on hair, protecting from heat styling."

I work in an air conditioned office where myself and my colleagues have a daily battle with Facilities team over the gusts of cold air that goes through our section. I blame this office for me being ill for nearly over three months now. This evil air conditioning also dries my skin out and makes my hair look like a mad woman by the afternoon. I have discovered that this helps keep my hair style throughout the day, so now it is definitely a staple in my hair care.

The product smells AMAZING as do all Aveda products. It smells all natural, organic and how products in salons usually smell. You know, expensive! It costs £18 for 100ml and will last you for ages I reckon as you only need a small blob through damp hair. The next day, my hair doesn't look greasy and flat either - a bonus!

They were giving out samples a couple of weeks ago in their salons, I suggest try and get one if they have any left.

Things I'm loving at the moment (Feb '11)

2011-02-19T17:52:00.000Z

E.L.F Sheer Mineral Booster (starting at £3.50)

I'm a big fan of the Bare Minerals 'Mineral Veil', and think this E.L.F version is a pretty decent, much cheaper dupe. I've been using this on top of my foundation and cream blushes to set everything. It doesn't stop the shiny t-zones coming through all day however. But it is so light weight and non-cakey looking, and I like the way it looks.

Batiste Brit Dry Shampoo (£2.19)

I've mentioned this before but since discovering dry shampoo, my hair is looking better as it being allowed to rest in between washes. I cannot recommend this product highly enough, it really will change the way you do your hair! A bonus of using this is that it helps me style my hair and keep it in place without having to use other products to weigh my hair down. This Brit Batiste version is so clean and fresh smelling, I love it!

Origins Starting Over Age-erasing Moisterizer with Mimosa (£35)

Origins products as a general rule are really good and this is no exception. I'm loving using this in the winter months. I like to wear this on days I don't wear makeup (which is only when I know I'll be at home all day!). This is because when I wear this over a serum, I feel that my complexion looks smoother and brighter. It has three main ingredients: Mimosa (soothing proerties), Argan Leaf Extract (protects against UV) and Green Algae (helps skin boost its now natural collagen). My skin feels smooth and plump all day.

NYX 'Goddess of the Night' Lipgloss in 'Juicy Red' 149 (£3.99)

NYX is a bit harder to get in the UK. There are however a few decent sites which you can order from. I'm into red lips at the moment and this on top helps soften the drama of the colour. The gloss smells of delicious strawberry and it gives such a long lasting 'glossy effect'. Really good value for money. Definitely will invest on a few more colours.

No7 Perfect Lips Pencil in' 15 Fire' (£7.50)

I love wearing this all over my lips and then using the NYX gloss on top. If I want something more dramatic, I use Mac's Russian Red lipstick in between these two products.

Korres Volumising Lash Conditioning and Strengthening Mascara (£10.00)

At first glance, the wand or the product do not look very exciting and when I first tried it, I was annoyed about the price I paid for something which I thought did not work at all. However, after a couple of days when a bit of air went in, I have fallen in love with this mascara. It does not necessary make my lashes longer, but makes them look more plump and full. I am using this every morning at the moment, and I am glad I bought it.

Nars Sheer Glow with Benefit 'That Gal'

2011-02-09T22:32:00.001Z

My favourite foundation/primer combo of the moment - they are the Benefit 'That Girl' brightening face primer and Nars Sheer Glow foundation. These together seem to work really well with my super dry winter skin at the moment.

Benefit 'That Girl' brightening face primer (21.50)

Please excuse the wear and tear of the outside packaging, I've had this product for a couple months now. I was initially a bit hesitant to get this as I thought it would be gimmicky and would end up making me look like a greaseball by the end of the day. But I have been pleasantly surprised by it. The 'Bad Gal' comes in what looks like a cross between a Prit Stick and play dough machine, and you have to twist the bottom to get the product out.

I hate this because it reminds me of little worms. So I am not a big fan of the container it comes in. The product itself is a light, creamy pink. It smells very sweet and lovely. Despite the colour, it is suitable for all skin tones, as I find with a lot of Benefit products. The idea behind this is, that it is meant to help brighten dull complexion as well as act as a primer. It does brighten the complexion, and as you lightly blend it over the skin, you can see your face looking a bit more healthier. It also smoothes out the skin so acts as a good base for foundation. What I do it put this on after my moisteriser, let it sink in whilst I do my eye make up, them put the foundation on top. It also works really well as a highlighter which I tend to top up through the day.

Nars Sheer Glow (£29 for 30ml)

I got skin matched last summer in 'Sycracuse' which was a pretty good match for me. Reviews of this foundation are in abundance, and they tend to be positive. I agree with these reviews. Although pricey, this is lasting me ages. I would say it is a medium coverage, and no matter how many layers I put on, it never seems to look 'caked'. It dries to a natural, healthy finish and does not wipe off the minute you touch it. In fact it is very well long wearing. At the moment, it is the best foundation I have tried and experienced. I will definitely be repurchasing this. I've got enough left for maybe three or four faces so looking forward to see what shade I'll be for winter.

What I have recently discovered is using the 'That Gal' under the Nars Sheer glow, my skin looks flawless without looking overly made up or like a disco ball. The foundation will last throughout my 9 hour work day, and I just need to lightly touch up around my t-zone if I'm planning to go out in the evening.

It photographs beautifully as well - the skin looks flawless, glowing and radiant.

One word of warning with bad gal, is that I have discovered that it does not work well with all foundations. Its a disaster under Mac Face & Body, and anything too 'liquidy'. I don't find it works well as a primer with some other foundations and to be honest, I only use it with my Nars. Actually, it works well with the Maybelline 24hr Stay as well.

This Is Yesterday

2011-02-02T18:40:00.004Z

16 years ago, Richey Edwards from the Manic Street Preachers walked out of the hotel he was staying in, and never came back. This guy didn't realise how much of an inspiration he was to his and the future generations with just the power of his words. Depression is such a bitch. But of course it would be wrong to sum him up to something as simple as that.

I was lucky enough to see the Manics again on 21 January 2011 at the Brixton Academy. I got seating this time which was good because I got to listen to them properly. But I was itching to get up from my seat and jump up and down like a maniac a good few times (I somehow managed to restrain myself). I looked around me, and it was filled with people of all ages, nationality and race. In front of me was a guy probably in his early 50's singing along to every single tune. Next to us was a girl who just leaned forward all night, her face in awe, hardly saying a word. There were a few students behind us who analysed their early days work whilst the stage was being prepared. There seems to be a form of solidarity with Manic fans that you don't tend to get with other bands.

Again, I tried to take some videos on my crappy iphone, and again they turned up not too great. As a tribute to Richey, I found some of my favourite Manic songs - some written by Richey, and some by Nicky Wire - which I wanted post.

James Dean Bradfield did a three song acoustic set midway through the gig. "This is Yesterday"was my favourite. My eyes were all welled up during this song, as also were a lot of people around us. It just shows Bradfield's talent in its pure form. Richey and Nicky write the lyrics, and James puts it to music. I can't fathom the talent of being able to do that. For someone to be able to put your words to music perfectly. He gets it right with every single song. Plus, his voice is bloody amazing.

"Faster" - this is my favourite song of all time. I remember being actually scared of this song when I first heard it because it sounded so in-your-face and accusatory. But slowly, it became such an empowering song to me. It actually makes me feel stronger when I hear it. Like I can take on the crap gets thrown about for those few minutes.

"Roses In The Hospital" - just a great song to sing (shout) along to. Sounds fantastic live.

"Revol" - another one of my all time favourites, and probably my favourite videos with 'Faster'. But gosh does Richey look so vacant and apathetic in this, heartbreaking in retrospect.

"La Tristesse Durera (scream to a sigh)" - this was written about war veterans. Every word is so powerful and emotional in this song.

"Little Baby Nothing" - Legend has it that they originally wanted Kylie to sing the vocals. Thank goodness her corporate record company didn't let her. Instead, Richey managed to get Traci Lords to sing with Bradfield. Lords couldn't be around for the video and the rest of the band couldn't be bothered to do it. So its just Bradfield, a Lords 'looky-likey' and a bunch of MSP fans with loads of slogans. I think this is a fantastic video as every time I watch it, I find something new to think about. To me, this video is the core essence of the Manics - no compromise.

Richey's presence is always felt around them even though he vanished so long ago. Whenever they play, the area of the stage where he always stood, is always left vacant, ready for him in case he decides to come back. They did have an extra guitarist (I think he was there at the XFM as well), but he respectably kept his distance towards the back. Is he dead, or wondering the sights of Goa? Everyone has their own opinion, I have mine.

People either can't stand the Manics, or are devoted, die hard fans who research every reference and lyric and quote from their songs in order to derive the true meaning to what they are trying to tell us. To me, the Manics are just so clever and intelligent. They don't write about romance or having a nice day. They are far too political and real for that. I remember listening to 'Your love alone' and then reading somewhere that the title came from a friend's suicide note. They don't do love songs! These guys have known each other since they were six or seven and they are still the best of friends, maintaining their roots when they could have gone all LA. I know I have dedicated quite a few posts to them, and I hope I don't come across as some Manics crazy nut. Its just that the band, and Richey's 'manifesto' as they call it, has become to mean a lot to me again over the last year. The Manics always comforted me back during those awkward teenage years because they made it alright to be different and not conform. Although some of their songs and behavior have proper pissed me off, they'll always have a corner of my heart.

http://manics.nl/

Stuff from Accessorize and Claire's

2011-01-26T20:03:00.002Z

I picked up some jewellery recently which were absolute bargains.

The Accessorize stuff were 70% off.

The earrings were £1.20 and hair clips cost me £1.80. I have recently got into the habit of tying my hair to the side, and like to stick some fun clips to the bun to help it stay put. So these are ideal for doing this type of hair style.

Claire's is my 10 year old niece's favorite place in the world. She would live there if she was allowed. I took her to watch Disney's 'Tangled' (which by the way was based on my favorite fairy tale Repunzel. We loved it) and popped into Claire's to spend some money she had saved up. I probably am a bit too old to be shopping there myself, but I do like their jewelry. They had an offer where you get any five sale items for a fiver. So I picked these up.

The top two are necklaces. I also got a ring and two pairs of earrings. BARGAIN. My favourite are the earrings in the middle.

My niece picked up five items too. In contrast to what I got, her purchases were; some florescent eyeshadows, an Edward Cullins notebook, big flower Hairband, novelty erasers and 'Hello Kitty' necklace.

Perfumes Galore

2011-01-24T20:51:00.000Z

Luckily for me, the original Ghost is my second most favourite perfume of all time. This is because it is dirt cheap during the winter sales.

I stocked up on two of the gift sets for about £11 each from Boots today. Each bottle is a generous 30ml and comes with a 50ml lotion. I have constantly repurchased this perfume for years now. As I tend to use perfume like body spray, I don't feel too bad when I end up finishing this quickly. I always get compliments when I wear this, and it lingers on my skin and clothes (and hair!) for ages.

Another thing I always pick up in the winter sales form Boots are miniature perfumes.

This pack of four were the only ones left from my local branch. From left to right, they are:

Stella McCartney
Armani Code
Amor Amor
Emporio Armani Diamonds

I actually don't know what most of them smell like, I love their size. I permanently have a miniature perfume in my make up bag.

At 5ml each, they are small and light enough to carry around with you at all times, and perfect to use throughout an evening to freshen up. These last me AGES. I think this set cost me £11.