Diary Delights - A UK Beauty and Lifestyle Blog

Chris James 12 Day Cleanse

2015-02-22T16:54:00.001+00:00

After having enjoyed the festive period a little too much and followed by a whole week of birthday celebrations, by mid January I was desperate to return to my healthy eating routine.

So to get myself back on the right track, I gave my very first detox/cleanse a go and started the Chris James 12 Day Cleanse. I was really excited to start the cleanse but also slightly apprehensive as I really wasn't sure what to expect, would it be impossible to follow? would I be hungry all the time? would it even do anything? you can imagine the rest.

The purpose of the 12 day program is to reduce acid forming foods in the diet, including meat, dairy, bread, pasta, alcohol and caffeine and replace them with alkaline ones in order to get the foods functioning at optimum level. The cleanse is split into 4 stages, which made it really easy to keep motivated and on track.

Whilst on the cleanse, I started each morning with hot lemon and water and lots of different supplements, it definitely took a couple of days to get used to take so many supplements but once I had adjusted it wasn't so bad. For the first half of the cleanse I was mainly eating porridge and smoothies for breakfast, LOTS of veg, grains and salads for lunch and dinner and then fruit or nuts for snacking. So in actual fact it wasn't too restricting and I could eat as much as I wanted as long as it was in my allowed list. With the 12 Day programe came clear guidelines on which foods you could and couldn't eat along with Chris's own recommended recipes.

A couple of days in and I definitely noticed that my cravings had lessened. I was saying no to chocolate, cakes and biscuits in the office, which was groundbreaking and I felt more alert and even lighter. I think I saw the most difference in the first couple of days and I definitely did feel more toned. By the juicing phase of the cleanse (days 6-9), things did become more difficult and I completely see why Chris recommends doing this phase over a quiet weekend if possible. During this point of the cleanse I did begin to feel quite tired and with a very busy job and social life it was hard to keep on track. I also found it hard to keep explaining to friends about why I had to skip our regular coffee, brunch and dinner dates. It's also worth mentioning that throughout the cleanse I had to prep all my meals in advance and be super organised. There were many trips to the supermarket to stock up on fresh produce and although this wasn't something I personally minded, it's just something to keep in mind if you want to give the cleanse a go yourself.

Now having completed the cleanse, I'd say I was happy with the results and it was a real eye opener on how certain foods can make you feel and can impact the body. I'll be honest and say my eating has gone back downhill in comparison to what it was like whilst I was on the cleanse but as we all know life on the go can mean that making the right choices can be challenging. I would definitely recommend the cleanse to others and now that I know exactly what to expect, I'd love to try it again when perhaps I can enjoy a more peaceful and restful 12 days.
If any of you have given cleansing a go then please do let me know by either leaving a comment below or tweeting me @phoebe151

If you're interested in learning more check out the Chris James site for info on the cleanse and Chris’ Yoga Retreat breaks, one of which is in the Himalayas and looks incredible!

New Skincare Additions

2014-12-29T16:17:00.003+00:00

Over the last couple of months, this cold winter weather has leaded to me making a few changes to my skincare regime. I have introduced three new products all of which have some really lovely hydrating properties.

The first is a the Origins A Perfect World moisturiser, which is packed with antioxidants and White Tea. This helps combat the damage of free radicals and so can help the skin looking younger for longer. A great option if you are starting to think about anti-ageing products but perhaps don't actually need them just yet (lucky you!).

Next is Suti's Rejuvenate Organic Face Oil, which is suitable for all skin types. This has so many wonderful properties, it's hard to know where to begin. It can help to minimise wrinkles, reduce scarring as well as also prevent premature ageing. To use you simply apply a few drops to the face after cleansing and toning, either morning or night and rub into the face using an upwards movement. I love this especially for when I want to try a facial massage.

Finally is the Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream, again this can be used morning or night and is suitable for all skin types. It's really lovely when used under your makeup and eye concealers and definitely one to not be without.

What new products have you been trying lately?

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Soap and Glory Face Balms

2014-12-28T20:34:00.001+00:00

I am a huge fan of Soap and Glory, from their body scrubs to body butters I can't say there is a product that I don't love. More recently, I have been trying some of their products for the face and I have been equally impressed.

The first is their Bright Here, Bright Now Instant Radiance Energy Boosting Balm, which can be used like a moisturiser or instead it can be mixed with makeup. It's great for making dull skin look more luminous, so a good for using the morning after the night before. I really like this and at £12, I think it's definitely reasonably priced, however if I am completely honest it does not quite match up to the Clarins Beauty Flash Balm.

Next is Glow Job, which is probably my favourite of the two. This 'morning moisture flash' gives the complexion a gorgeous sunkissed look. You only need to apply a pea sized amount to the face and it can be used either on its own or under makeup. This is definitely great all year round either when your skin needs a boost in the winter, or if you already have a tan during this summer then this could be used instead of your usual foundation.

Have you tried either of these? What other Soap and Glory products would you recommend?

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Current Favourites

2014-12-14T17:45:00.002+00:00

There are so many products that I'm loving at the moment and simply couldn't be without, so narrowing it down is always tricky...

Firstly I have to mention the Origins Clear Improvement Mask, which has been an absolute lifesaver this winter. My skin has been so temperamental that this has really helped to balance the skin, especially mid-break out.

Next is Maybelline The Falsies Mascara, which is literally THE best mascara I have tried in a while. So definitely a must-have for party season.

I've also been enjoying Champney's Energising Lime Hydrating Body Gel. I find that this is really great to use ahead of a night out as you can guarantee your legs will look fabulous in your LBD.

Last but not least is the Bobbi Brown Corrector and Creamy Concealer Kit. I use light to medium peach in the corrector and warm beige in the concealer. I find these are so great in the colder months at hiding those bags and dark circles, whether they be from too many Christmas parties, or if you simply struggle to wake up in the mornings. This combo will make you look like you have got your 8 hours in and nobody has to know!

What products have you been loving lately?

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Body Shop Rainforest Shampoo & Conditioner

2014-12-14T16:42:00.002+00:00

As you all probably know, I am really fussy when it comes to what products I use on my hair. I tend to steer away from products that are packed with silicones, parabens and sulphates and so where possible I opt for natural and organic products.

Sometimes this can get pricey but one range I do like that doesn't have to break the bank is The Body Shop Radiance Eclat Shampoo and Conditioner. With continued use and a weekly treatment, this duo will keep your hair shiny and nourished, especially if you have coloured or over-processed hair.

Let me know if you too have tried these or which hair products you would recommend...

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Alpha H Protection Plus Daily SPF50

2014-12-14T16:13:00.003+00:00

Just because it's winter, it doesn't mean you can skip your daily SPF. This year my go-to product has to be the Alpha H Protection Plus Daily SPF15+.

Blended with Mango Seed Butter, Pomegranate and other powerful antioxidants, this offers broad spectrum protection against UV damage as well as protecting the skin from free radical aggression. Also, unlike other SPF's, this has a non-whitening formula, which leaves the skin soft, smooth and looking youthful.

I apply this each morning after cleansing and before my usual moisturiser, it's very nourishing on the skin, which is great for the colder months and it is suitable for all skin types. I'd always recommend using a SPF alongside your moisturiser, even if said moisturiser or even your foundation claims to have SPF protection as by doing so you can guarantee you are protecting your skin as much as possible. After all prevention is always better then cure right?

Let me know what you think about SPF's and if you have a favourite?

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Tips to Restore Hair Back to Health

2014-08-19T20:53:00.002+01:00

If you have dry or damaged hair as a result of colouring your hair, heat styling or even just from environmental factors taking their toll, then here are a few tips to help your hair get healthier and maybe even a bit longer too!

Avoid hair products that contain silicones - these mask the hair and ultimately are the cause of split ends. Opt for brands which use more natural ingredients. I like Phyto, Michael Van Clarke and my new favourite brand, Leonor Greyl.
Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week, or twice if needed! This is key to restoring moisture back into the hair. My current favourite (pictured above) is the HER Trecento Treatment
Use a Leave in Conditioner, especially when you don't have time for a treatment. I love the above leave in cream from Klorane. Applied whilst hair is still damp, this is packed with natural goodness and smells gorgeous too.
Go au natural and avoid using heated appliances when possible and if you can't resist, then ALWAYS use a heat protecting spray.
Cut back on styling products as using too many can cause product to build up. Instead opt for a nourishing styling creme or just one good quality product that suits your hair type. For me nothing beats the Leonor Greyl Styling Creme for Dry Hair.

I'm not an expert on this matter but I have definitely seen the benefits from following the above. Unfortunately it is not a quick fix but over time my once frazzled and dead looking hair now actually has less split ends, more movement and seems to be getting a little longer too!

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Beauty Shopping...

2014-08-14T20:34:00.004+01:00

I haven't written any blog posts for a while, there hasn't been a particular reason as to why, just the usual but that's another story. But don't worry, the constant beauty chatter, the regular visits to Space NK and getting carried away with a glitter eyeshadow palette on a Monday morning certainly have not stopped... Anyway to get back into the swing of things, I thought I would share a few recent purchases to let you all know that I am still alive, I am still spending excessive amounts on makeup and skincare and well quite simply to get my little beauty blog back to business.

My first product is the PIXI Glow Tonic -a chemical exfoliator, that can be used around three times a week after cleansing. This has probably been on my wish list for absolutely zonks as for months it wasflying off the shelves and impossible to find, naturally this made me want it even more.

Next is another product that was sold out for what felt like forever and it's the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. This has quickly become my go to concealer, it's great for using under the eyes and to cover any blemishes. It's easy to blend and has a lovely finish and used with the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, well now we're talking...

When I heard Giorgio Armani had branched into makeup, I knew I wanted in and after hearing plenty of rave reviews I knew I had to give the Luminous Silk Foundation a go. So far I really like this as it feels very light and not cakey on the skin but still gives just enough coverage.

And just because I don't have enough lip balms, lipsticks and lip glosses, I went and picked up a new MAC Lustre Glass lipgloss. I really like this as it is small enough to fit into your clutch bag and it is a nice shade which is suitable for day and night. In actual fact, there isn't much I can say that justifies yet another lip product other but it was pretty and I liked it.

Let me know what you too have been buying recently...

P x

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Sephora Haul

2014-04-16T22:22:00.002+01:00

So is it to normal to pick your holiday destinations on the basis of whether or not there is a Sephora in the area? Probably not, but then again if you are reading this then I am hoping we are somewhat on the same level. With Sephora being the ultimate shopping destination for all beauty junkies alike, when we arrived in Paris, I made sure it was one of our first destinations.

What has always impressed me with Sephora is there own line of products. The range is huge with loads of formulas and colours to choose from and all at reasonable prices. I have bought a lot from them over the years and can admit I have always been impressed.

So here is what I picked up on my latest visit...

Sephora Colour Reveal Lip Balm

I first bought this a few years ago and fell in love with it - I actually fell in love with a lip balm. So much so that I finished it, this has NEVER happened before. So of course I had to repurchase it straightaway. The Colour Reveal Lip balm just leaves a really lovely and natural colour on the lips, it works with your skin tone to give you the perfect shade for your lips and it's just like a healthy glow on the lips.

Sephora Moisturising Beautifying Water

This is a really refreshing and moisturising facial spray. It gives my skin a moisture boost and an instant pick me up. I apply it to clean skin or sometimes over makeup , although you need to give the skin time to dry. Definitely a handbag/travel essential as we get into summer.

Sephora Concealer Palette

In my opinion, perhaps the least exciting product but still great in its own right. I like this best for under the eyes to give a brighter and more awake appearance.

Sephora Colour Reveal Lipgloss

This was added to the Colour reveal range so I had to snap it up. Same principle just more glossy. Amazing.

So I converted by best friend into a Sephora addict on this last trip... I wonder if my boyfriend will feel the same on our trip to Europe next month (fingers crossed).

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Parisian Skincare Cult Products

2014-03-29T17:37:00.003+00:00

Soooo I went to Paris, we went to City Pharma and I bought lots of skincare (shame on me).

This time round I stuck to the essentials, the products I knew I had to get. But maybe next time I will try some products I know a little less about and see what I come across.

ANYWAY before I start to ramble, my purchases included my can't be without La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo- available in Boots, I know. But it's so much cheaper in France!? Then of course I had to stock up on some Bioderma Micellar Water, I say no more. Next up was the Nuxe Rive de Miel Lip balm because I definitely needed more lip balm. Ok I definitely didn't need more lip balm but again, this was so much cheaper in comparison to UK prices. I also picked up the Embryolisse Hydra-Masque, which is a very lovely hydrating face mask. La Roche Posay's Serozinc was another item on my list, which I am very happy with as it is very light, refreshing and hydrating on the skin- definitely something I would recommend purchasing. The Lierac Dark Circle Correcting Cream Eye Contour was more of an impulse buy as this little product promises to both conceal and diminish the appearance of dark circles and shadows and I so far, so good! Then last but not least, I grabbed these super handy mini Bioderma Hand Creams, with three in a pack you can't go wrong- one for your handbag, one for your desk and one at home.

I am planning my next trip back already...

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The New MUST-HAVE Radiance Boosting, Skin Correcting Wonder Product...

2014-03-28T21:35:00.002+00:00

Clarins really never do disappoint and they have done it yet again. With what has become another fabulous must-have product; the Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base* in 'champagne' works to illuminate and correct the skin tone. Helping to create a flawless finish without much fuss, this is a really fantastic base, which works very nicely under your foundation although it can be used alone also.

Working to balance out uneven skin-tone, the Clarins Instant Light Complexion Base leaves the skin looking brighter, which is perfect for early mornings, whilst also helping to cover imperfections.

If that was not enough, did I mention that it even leaves the skin feeling wonderfully hydrated too?

The Clarins Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base is available in three different shades and is available at all Clarins counters.

RRP:£26

I urge you to get your hands on this pronto!

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The 'Wet' brush

2014-03-27T20:18:00.002+00:00

I don't think I ever written a post solely on a hairbrush until now...

The 'Wet' brush* has quickly become one of my can't live without products as it detangles my thick, unruley hair in seconds and making all other hairbrushes seem simply useless.

So wave goodbye to the old Tangle Teezer as I The 'Wet' Brush is on another level of amazing.

The Wet Brush can be used on either wet or dry hair, on any hair type and even on hair extensions. It uses IntelliFlex Bristles and has Soft Tips, which basically means that the two combined eliminate tugging, tearing, pulling and ripping of the hair.

This means no split ends, no hair loss and overall healthy (and happy) hair brushing!

The 'Wet' Brush is available from Sally, sallyexpress.com and salons nationwide retailing at £11.99.

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Get the glow without the fuss!

2014-03-03T20:45:00.000+00:00

I have been really lazy recently when it comes to my fake tanning regime, which always results in same scenario; rushing frantically to get ready then shrieking at the sight of my pasty limbs. So my new found love and miracle product has to be the Caudalie Divine Legs (£26). This has been solving that post night-out panic whilst giving my skin a nice, instant touch of colour that is super easy to apply and doesn't leave any streaks.

A lovely addition to this (if you are better prepared) is the Caudalie Divine Scrub (£21). This will give your tan an even better finish and may I just add that it smells absolutely dreamy.

Check the Caudalie Divine range here - let me know what you think!

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Mark Hill MiracOILicious

2014-03-03T00:30:00.000+00:00

I have such dry and damaged hair that haircare is probably what I invest most of my time and money on when it comes to beauty. I love a good splurge in Space NK but i have recently found that you don's always need to go for hair brands that break the bank...

The Mark Hill MiracOILicious 2 minute miracle treatment (£7.99) is a 2 minute revitalizing treatment that helps reconstruct damaged hair in need of urgent repair. It has a blend of pure essential oils and natural plant extracts, which includes Morrocon Argan Oil. The rich formula helps infuse protein back into weakened hair, so that it is left feeling stronger and looking healthy and shinier!

The Mark Hill MiracOILicious is available in Boots stores and online and well what can I say, it is definitely worth a try!

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Another hit from Clarins...

2014-01-30T22:19:00.000+00:00

Clarins is easily one of my favourite brands and so it comes at no surprise that I have found yet another product from them that I love. For those of you who enjoy in over indulging when it comes to your bath time products then I strongly recommend you try out the Clarins Exfoliating Body Scrub for Smooth Skin.

For an exfoliator it is surprisingly soft to the touch and not harsh on the skin (an excellent one for those with sensitive skin) yet that being said it is still very effective.

The Clarins Exfoliating Body Scrub retails at £29, a little on the pricey side but definitely a nice treat especially when the weather is this miserable.

More Empties..

2014-01-28T21:53:00.000+00:00

I really enjoy writing about all the products I have used up. For someone like me that is on the verge of OCD it presents the opportunity to be out with the old and in with the new.

So recently I have managed to get through...

The Dove Intensive Nourishment Hand Cream is a nice and affordable hand cream but nothing incredibly exciting for me I am afraid.

I think I received the Ritessens Exfoliant in a Birchbox a while back, I definitely would be interested in trying more from this brand, it was very effective but also very kind to the skin.

Well you all know how I feel about the Laura Mercier Creme Brûlée and the entire range to be quite honest- I just love love LOVE it. Heaven in a bottle if you ask me. I will be repurchasing one or two of these again very quickly.

The Lee Stafford Bleach Blondes is great when you have highlights to brighten up brassy tones, however only to be used on a weekly basis.

Although most beauty fanatics have changed their perceptions on toners and many of us are now moving towards chemical exfoliating toners, The Body Shop Aloe Vera Toner is a really nice take on a classic. It is alcohol free and gentle on the skin- I would definitely repurchase this.

I really love the entire Phyto range as it is definitely a brand I can trust when it comes to good quality haircare. The Phyto Subtil Elixir* is used as a pre shampoo treatment, which I really like as you can leave it in the hair for so much longer then normal treatments that are simply applied in the bath or shower.

I have been buying the Lee Stafford Hair Growth for many years now, I mainly loved the packaging and all that it promises. But after many years, I really don't think this product has had much to do with my hair growth whatsoever. Sadly this is not going to be repurchased again as I have learnt that unfortunately no product can make your hair grow miraculously. The only thing that will help your hair grow is to keep it healthy by avoiding chemical-filled products and using minimum heat styling.

When I finally came across Steamcream* I was super excited, I love the concept and the cute little packaging but unfortunately I was not blown away by this. I think the concept however is that it is supposed to be for those with sensitive skin or irritations, in which case if that is a concern of yours, it could just be amazing.

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The Perfect Glow-Getter

2014-01-27T18:50:00.000+00:00

If your skin, like mine is feeling dry and looking dull after the Winter months then I have the perfect solution for you. The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector*, a water based moisturising highlighter best used before your foundation as a serious glow-getter.

There are various colours in the range, some of which probably look great on their own or with a touch of foundation. I have the shade 'pearl' which I find to be slighty too shimmery to be worn all over the face alone but it is however perfect under foundation or simply on the cheekbones.

This is great for daytime, especially early mornings but I would recommend avoiding this if you are on a night out and there is the possibility of flash photography- the SPF is more then likely to cause flashback.

The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector* is available online and also in Space NK and retails at £33

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SUPER-COLOUR FABULIPSTICK

2014-01-26T22:59:00.004+00:00

So recently I have been having a bit of a love affair with this little beautiful lipstick from Soap and Glory. SUPER-COLOUR FABULIPSTICK* in 'Blush Pink' has a really creamy consistency and gives a matte finish with great staying power. I hate to say it but it definitely gives that 'my lips but better' kinda colour and can I also mention that I love the uber chic packaging.

I just can't comprehend now why I ever spend so much on high-end lipsticks when at an affordable £9 this ticks all the boxes.

Let me know what you guys think!

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Back to Blogging and New Skincare Additions

2014-01-26T22:16:00.001+00:00

So I have gone slightly awol recently when it comes to blogging, things have just got busy and then suddenly so much time has passed. My makeup and beauty hoarding of course has continued and I have so so much to blog about. To get me back into the swing of things I thought I would show you all some of my latest skincare additions.

Firstly, I have been test driving this Sancturary Leave on Exfoliating cream - think Liquid Gold or Pixi Tonic in a cream formula and well this is the result. So far I really am enjoying this, it doesn't sting like other chemical exfoliants and so it I think it would be great for those with sensitive skin.

Next is latest cult product - Hydraluron. Made from Hyaluronic Acid this is the perfect pick me up for dehydrated skin. It's around £24.99 in Boots (although often on offer) and I think it just does as it says on the bottle whether it is used on regular basis or when having a skin SOS.

Finally, my latest love is from Transformulas, a brand which I am very new to myself and it is their Radiant Lift Mask* that has captured my heart. It is simply incredible, it makes hardly any mess and in 10 minutes I feel like I have had an hour long facial. My skin feels firmer, plumper, pore-less and it gives it a health glow! An all round winner.

Let me know if you have tried any of these or what you have been trying out this new year!

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3 Product Face

2013-12-01T22:05:00.002+00:00

These products lean towards those great skin days, 'no makeup' makeup looks or just when your in a hurry.

To give the skin a lovely natural glow, I can't be without the Laura Mercier Radiance Primer. I do of course use it under foundation but when used alone, it can minimise the look of imperfections as it has a very slight hint of colour and so is great used on its own. Next is the Maybelline Illegal Lengths Waterproof Mascara. This is great for daytime use as it is not too dramatic and the fact that it is waterproof is such an added bonus. Last but not least is the MAC Creamsheen Glass lipgloss range. I am often quite indifferent when it comes to lipgloss but these really just give the perfect amount of shine to the lips and are really comfortable too.

Have you tried any of these products? Let me know what you think.

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Real Techniques Travel Essentials

2013-11-18T23:42:00.002+00:00

I love Real Techniques brushes, in my eyes they just do the job so well and at such an affordable price. I recommend them to beauty junkies and to those who are new to makeup as you just cannot beat them.

The latest addition to my collection is their Travel Essentials and I think it is perhaps my favourite set because as a whole I value each and every brush. In other collections there has always been one brush that I never end up using and although the others do makeup for it - yes I am talking about the Buffing brush here, it is nice to have a set where all the brushes are so useful.

Firstly, you have the Foundation brush (orange) and I love the density of this brush. I find this design really great for achieving a more full coverage look.

Secondly, is the Shadow brush (purple), which is what I now use to pack on my eye shadow. I find it picks up more product then an average fluffy blending brush so I start with this and then blend with my MAC 217 - the perfect combination.

And last but not least is the Multi Purpose Brush (pink). This is so soft on the skin and it really can be used for a variety of things. I personally love it for applying powder to set my makeup but it also works very nicely when applying bronzer too.

Have you got these Real Techniques brushes too?

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Must Have Clarins Products

2013-11-18T23:21:00.003+00:00

Clarins... my skincare, body care and makeup brand of the moment. They have SO many products I could praise but if you can't decide on those which really are worth the pennies or which to put on your Christmas List, then here's my reccomendations...

Firstly, my must have foundation this winter has to be the Clarins Extra Comfort with SPF15*. It has a non-oily, rich texture and is filled with loads of skincare benefits, which really makes the skin feel nourished and hydrated. With a medium to full coverage this foundation is great for the winter but what I particularly love is that it still manages to give the skin a luminous glow. As far as 'extra comfort' is concerned I will happily back Clarins up. It felt great on the skin and had great staying power, even on a super hectic day when makeup inevitably is going to struggle to last, this made my skin look even and fresh.

Next up is the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner. These new chemical exfoliators are the new must have essential in your skincare routine, yet they aren't always that easy to come across. So of course this one from Clarins is great as it easily accessible and more importantly it really is very effective. This product used after a cleanser lifts impurities to brighten dull skin and what can I say, I love it.

Last but not least is the product that has been on every beauty blogger's lips; the Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector*. I have the shade 04 in Petal Shimmer, which gives a lovely natural pinky sheen to the lips. I feel like this is the perfect product to use for an everyday look but I also think it will look perfect teamed with a dramatic smokey eye in the evening.

Please let me know which are your favourite Clarins products by leaving me a comment or sending me a tweet.

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Michael Van Clarke 3" More Inches Lifesaver Spray Review

2013-10-24T17:48:00.002+01:00

So here we have it, yet another rave about the Micheal Van Clarke 3" more inches range. Ever since learning about the damage that silicone can do to your hair, I have tried to eradicate it from my hair care routine completely. It has actually proven quite difficult to find many products and brands that don't use silicones and so that's why Michael Van Clarke 3" More Inches range has remained my haircare brand of choice.

My latest addition and love is the Michael Van Clarke 3" More Inches Lifesaver Spray*. It is a great

styling treatment, which has added UV Protection and also acts as a leave in conditioner. I have been using it religiously after every wash to protect my hair from heat styling and also to help nourish and smooth the hair. I have really been enjoying the fact that this is such a multi purpose product, which does not weigh down the hair and when used there really is no need to use anything else meaning there's no product buildup! Like the rest of the 3MI range the Lifesaver spray also slows down the ageing process whilst repairing any broken bonds to keep your hair young and supple.

The Michael Van Clarke 3" More Inches Lifesaver Spray retails at £19.50 and is available online here and also in Space NK.

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NYC in a NYC Minute Nail Polishes

2013-08-15T14:51:00.003+01:00

It's not often I do a post solely on nail varnish but I was so impressed with these NYC in a NYC Minute nail polishes* that I just had to give them their own post. Firstly, I love the colours in the range and I think that the three above, which are New Pink Spring Tulip, Blue Sky and Green Raindrop are super cute . More importantly I found them really easy to apply and they did in fact dry very quickly and lasted for a couple of days without chipping.

I find it incredible that they are so good, yet only cost £1.79 at Superdrug- Yes you heard correctly! So go and give these a go and let me know what you think!

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New CID i-tint Review

2013-08-14T13:54:00.000+01:00

Some of my favourite beauty products are from New CID cosmetics, yep i-glow in the shade Sirroco- I couldn't be without you. So this week when the latest New CID i-tint tinted moisturiser* with SPF15 landed on my desk in it's super swish packaging, I was really quite excited.

The New CID i-tint is suitable for all skin types and is supposed to brighten the skin to give the complexion a healthy glow. It feels very light on application and I have noticed that it feels very moisturising also. It instantly gave my skin luminosity in all the right places and so yes, I have been very impressed. I love this for Summer days due to the fact that it does have SPF15 in and it does feel very lightweight and refreshing on the skin. It's perfect for those get up and go days or even whilst on holiday and can I just mention one more time how gorgeous the packaging is... I really love the fact that it already came with a pump too.

The New CID i-tint retails at £26 and is available in four shades. For more information or just to browse more products from New CID Cosmetics check out their website here.

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Phoebe :) x

*PR Sample