Lornalouise: Beauty & Kittens

Morag: A secret story of sabotage!!

2014-01-29T06:30:00.000+00:00

This little lay you see below i am not sure i have introduced on the blog before. I am going to correct that now with a little story, but be warned!!

It contains espionage!!!

Her name is Morag (aka 'raggy'), she's a fairly old lady at 12 years old and she is almost completely blind.

But don't let all that fool you, she is actually The Suspect of covertly working to destroy this blog.

Possibly motive is thought to be to she gets even more time for cuddles.

As her past attempts at sabotage have so far been foiled she is having to become less secretive and more direct in her malicious behaviour.

At approximately 1200hours on Monday 27th January 2014 i was innocently trying to take photos of a top secret item for an upcoming blog post when The Suspect approached stealthily while my back was turned. I only looked away for a few seconds but The Suspect is so dedicated to her mission that it was all she needed. As i looked around again she had sat right into the space where i was taking my photos.

This is a classic scare tactic.

See Exhibit A and B below.

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

But this method has been tried before and i was luckily able to work around The Suspect with not much problem. The Suspect growing more and more desperate to complete her mission decided on a more direct tactic by attempting to STEAL the top secret subject of my work.

Luckily she was caught red pawed committing the crime.

See Exhibit C and D below.

Exhibit C

Exhibit D

It was at much danger to myself that i wrestled the product out of The Suspects claws and saved the day.

The authorities (aka Mr BeautyandKittens) were promptly called and The Suspect was taken away to Kitty Jail (aka The Living Room).

For reporter pictures on the shame faced Suspect after her capture - Please see Exhibit E below.

Exhibit E

If you ever see this Dangerous Criminal about please let me know as it could be the result of a half hatched escape attempt to come after me and my blog again.

Review - Clinique Redness Solutions Foundation

2014-01-28T06:30:00.000+00:00

Clinique was born in 1968 from the Estee Lauder brand, headed by Estee's Daughter in Law Evylyn Lauder. The idea for the brand was based on a article in Vogue “Can Great Skin Be Created?”, written by beauty editor Carol Phillips with the help Dr. Norman Orentreich (a top NY Dermatologist who's research helped in pioneering Hair Transplants ...ooft). The article was about how important it is to have a good skin care routine. Both were promptly recruited to help create the first Clinique range.
Evylyn Lauder is reportedly the first person to wear the white lab coat that is not synonymous with the Clinique brand.

This specific foundation is not one of the more popular Clinique foundations and I first tried it when i got it as a sample in a magazine and decided to take it to use on holiday with me. Boy am i glad i did otherwise it would just be sitting in my sample drawer still.

Redness Solutions Makeup SPF 15 is said to work by camouflages redness, flushing and blushing. While at the same time helps to strengthen the skins barrier and keep out any possible environmental triggers of redness with the SPF.

Shade Range

The Shade i had in the sample turned out to be the perfect shade for me (a rarity).

The shade range is something that puzzles me though. There are only 6 shades and i am shade 3 Calming Ivory, slap bang mid range.

Shade Blended and not blended.

Now i usually have use the palest or second palest shade depending on the range available, so for this to suit be perfectly? There has to be a big gap somewhere and i think it is at the darker end of the scale as neutral, honey and vanilla are the three darkest shades.

Skin Type

I have very oily skin, although it has been getting less so (unfortunately i think that may be age related, booo), and this foundation works so well for me. I can get a good 6 hours of wear from this without needing to blot or re powder which i think is frankly amazing as i never get results like that.

Unfortunately i cannot really comment on how this would work with dry skin, it doesn't really feel particularly moisturising when put on but it also doesn't feel drying so i could only suggest getting a sample to see yourself.

Obviously redness is a common sign of sensitivity so this is specifically formulated to work well and not aggravate sensitive skin.

Does it do what it says on the tin?

Yes.
I have tried to cover my redness since i was a teenager. I get it across my nose and top of my cheeks the worst. Its particularly hard to cover because it sits directly under my dark circles (they make each other stand out).
This covers the redness in one layer on good days and two for bad. It means my face looks so much less cakey because i am not having to use as much concealer to try and block it out.

Cost

This retails at £24 for 30ml of product which is definitely not a cheap product. In reality it is a mid range price foundation but for me, i wouldn't pay much more than this ever.
Although i have to take into consideration that i am able to use less product to get a good coverage when using this and that it should hopefully be helping my skin as well, I'd

say this is well worth the money.

This has became my go to product in the past few weeks. It is really working so well for me and I'm so glad i picked it up.
Its usual to find different products that you like but unusual to find ones that really make a difference in your day to day routine.

Have you tried it or found anything that has really changed your life?

Elle Subscription - Topshop Gift

2014-01-15T07:00:00.000+00:00

In a recent Elle issue i came across an advertisement for a subscription for only £18 for a whole year.

That's 12 issues for £18 or £1.50 per issue, which is an amazing deal when it is usually £3.80 an issue.
While i do love this magazine and buy it monthly this wasn't what caught my attention if I'm honest... it was the free Topshop Makeup gift that came with it. Makeup obsessed - guilty as charged, i know.

The set included all their best sellers, including a few items that have been creeping up in my last few posts.

Topshop Bronzer in Mohawke - A great matte shade for a light skin tone, set in a compact with a generously sized mirror.

Topshop Lipstick in Charmed - A peachy coral shade that will suit most skin tones. I little cakey on my lips but that's because mine are super dry. (nothing a little 8hour cream or equivalent cant sort out) .

Topshop Nail Polish in AWOL - A near twin of Nails Inc Baker Street. Slightly less shiney but not a problem of your using a good topcoat.

Topshop Glow Highlighter in Gleam - This is a rose-gold-ish shade. It goes on a nice warm flush though and blends well. I actually prefer this to the cult 'polish' shade.

Topshop Magic Liner in Engraved - This is the only product in the set i don't really like, it smudges a lot and is a bit too runny which makes it difficult to apply in a neat line.

I have came to love most of these products and i use the bronzer almost daily having surpassed both my Nars Laguna and Bourjois Delice de Poudre.

Post Christmas Haul - Fashion

2014-01-13T07:00:00.001+00:00

ASOS

YRU - Lowf Fox Flat Show £22 - Reduced from £50

Oh I love them! How cute is the wittle wolfy! Also extremely comfy which i wasn't really expecting.

I have a really difficult time wearing dolly shoes because of the lack of sole (or soul, devil creatures), I get excruciating pains in my calves which i think is lactic acid build up because of the pressure. Due to this i usually live in ankle/biker boots and i must admit i miss cute little shoes. These are perfect though because of the decent ~~soul~~ sole and small heel.

ASOS Prayer Pointed High Heels £20 - Reduced from £40

I really am quite the cheap skate, i would never have paid 40 quid for these, partly because i worry how the heel will hold up without looking scratched too soon.

I have been wanting a pair with a heel like this for a while and also a nice pair (not too high) that i could wear with trousers as well as dresses. These fir the bill, love 'em.

Only available in a 4 at time if writing.

She Inside

Black Long Sleeve leopard Pattern T-Shirt £16.70

I spend a lot of my life in baggy black tops. This is adding to my collection of them, and also to my collection of Cat related clothing.

Green High Waist Plaid Elastic Pant - £19.42

I saw these on LookBook actually. The page is of Lua of Le-Happy.com a fashion blog. I am obsessed with her style and just needed these trousers in my life.

Black Long Sleeve Letters Cat Print Sweatshirt - £14.54

And again. Cats. Black. Baggy. Ohhhh yes. That's all i need to say on this one.

Hope you all had great sale shopping fun too :D

Post Christmas Haul - SpaceNK

2014-01-11T21:39:00.000+00:00

Yes Yes I've been gone.

I was gone, then i said i was coming back, then i was gone, then i said i was coming back... and it just kinda never happened did it.

Lets forget my blatant lies to you all though, new year new me and all that.

I haven't went quite as mad with the sale shopping this year as i did last (having less money to spend will to that to a girl) but i still managed to grad in a few bargains.

Aromatherapy Associates Little Bell £5 - Reduced from £10

Up until now i have managed to keep a secret from you all but not after this post. I am completely (like its genuine problem) with Aromatherapy Associates mini bottles. I wont be wanting any full size ones, just the mini ones, be it the ever cute baby 3ml or right up to the 7.5ml toddlers.

This is a 7.5ml bottle of Revive Morning and can be used in the bath (my personal preference) or prior to entering the shower. It smells beautiful and quite classic, it doesn't make you sleepy or leave you smelling like a potpourri bowl for the next hour like some others do.

This Works - Dream Believers £10 - Reduced from £20

I have to admit i am disappointed after buying this. I really expected them to smell like the pillow spray but alas they are not to my taste. Musky is the only word i can think of to describe it (and not in a lovely body shop white musk way).

Will definitely be passing this on and hopefully it will find the home it deserves.

This Works - Dream on £6 - Reduced from £12

This has sold out on the SpaceNK site but is available still for £9 directly from This Works Here.

Beginning to get a bit of a theme here (and it ain't ending anytime soon.)

I must say i don't know what was going through my head when i was buying this (it was late Christmas day, sober was not really the right word) but i assumed it was bigger than the 12ml it is. Not that i am complaining, this smells much more like it! Beautiful and calming and fresh, not a hint of muskiness here.

Laura Mercier - Shimmer Effects Mini Caviar Stick Eye Colour Collection £14 - Reduced from £28

I would never have paid £28 for this but at half price i think it is well worth it. With four truly pretty colours that all compliment each other, a creamy blendable formula and the cuteness factor for size this was something i had to have.

Also currently out of stock.

Aromatherapy Associates Festive Collection £17 - Reduced from £35

Okay so i may have almost bought two of these sets, almost. 10 mini bottles of 3ml each, heaven. Each bottle is a different scent and i love them all. Can you tell I get these sets every year i can in the sale.

Also currently out of stock.

Life NK - Drift Away Collection £10 - Reduced from £20

This set contains a Milk soak (not sure what this is exactly), Body Lotion, Body wash and a Candle. I haven't got around to trying any of these as of yet but its looking good i think?

Let me know if you have.

Top 5 Christmas Sets - £25 and under

2013-11-27T14:13:00.000+00:00

Christmas gift sets are one of my favourite things. You get to try lots for not a lot.

These five that i have picked out were my favourite from the lower end of the price range when trawling through the Selfridges website (which currently has 10% off beauty).

Nails Inc - Autumn/Winter Collection - £22

Set contains:
Sloane Gardens - unique navy glitter
Chester Street - unique pearl
Bruton Mews - deep forest green
Richmond Terrace - deep forest plum
Jerymn Street - classic taupe
Chelsea Bridge Road - tomato red

Clarins all about lips Collection - £18

This is a steal at this price for anyone a little Clarins crazy like me.

Includes: Colour Quench Lip Balm 02 Peach Nectar 7ml

Gloss Prodige 04 Candy 2.5ml

Rouge Eclat 13 Woodrose 1.5g

Instant Light Natural Lip perfector 01 Rose Shimmer 5ml

complimentary make-up bag

Neom Thee Nights of Peace Collection - £10

Includes

Complete Bliss Bath Oil 5ml

Real Luxury Bath Oil 5ml

Tranquillity Bath Oil 5ml

Clinique Black Honey Beauty Set - £25

Almost Lipstick in Black Honey 1.9g

Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss, 7ml

A Different Nail Enamel for Sensitive Skins in Black Honey, 5ml

High Impact Mascara in Black, 3.5ml

Origins Ornament Christmas Bauble - £12

The bauble comes in two colours but both contain the same products and are dispatched randomly.

Includes

Plantscription™ Serum 7ml
Drink Up™ Intensive Mask 7ml
GinZing™ Eye Cream 5ml
Modern Friction™ 5ml
Make A Difference™ Plus+ Moisturiser 5ml

Sunday will have my top 5 Over £25 and for some reason it packed with Laura Mercier.

NOTD #6

2013-10-18T17:30:00.000+01:00

This is a brand new polish of mine (post coming soon about where I got it). Now I know this is not really a traditional seasonal shade for autumn into winter but frankly my dear I don't give a damn. (...can you tell I'm excited that Gone With The Wind is coming back to cinemas?)

This is Topshop 'AWOL' and it's blue. Not a navy blue or a sky blue or even an aquamarines colour. It's just blue!
It's the first Topshop nail polish I have worn and I'm impressed. I have lost my topcoat so had to go without and although it's looking a little less shiny than I'm used to I haven't been seeing chips appearing on any of my nails. I've decided I'll be wearing this well into winter, I'll be trying to out-blue the cold.

Lorna xxx

Todays Makeup #1

2013-10-17T17:30:00.000+01:00

Today my makeup is a little into uncharted territory for me. Usually i have a dark or bright lip but today i decided to go for a nude one. The lipstick is a M.A.C Matte shade in Velvet Teddy and to be honest I'm not completely sold on it. What do you think?

Lorna xxx

MAC Viva Glam I. Original and best.

2013-10-05T18:59:00.000+01:00

Please excuse the cat hair in the background of the photos, new kitty Morag really likes the bed :)

Hello there, do i have a new lipstick love and a half. Ive been wearing this constantly since i got it.

This is the first ever MAC Viva Glam i have ever bought and it just so happens to be the first ever MAC Viva Glam... and i love it. I'm not into the bright pink that some have been but i do love me a dark lip. This is a wonderfully vampire-y red. Rich and full with a touch of brown to keep it in darker territories.
"The original VIVA GLAM girl is back! The fabulous RuPaul, first face of VIVA GLAM in 1994, returns with her outspoken burgundy red Lipstick - now also available as a Lipglass. "

Don't feel the burn: Care in the Sun before and after

2013-08-15T07:00:00.000+01:00

Now that I am back and considering I'm going on holiday this month for a week in the sun you may notice this blog take a turn of a decidedly singular nature 'Cause Ive got sun and summer on the brain babyyy. (Creepiness over promise).

This post will be all about my favourite sun protection and after sun products.

As much as I listen to Ms Cassey Ho from Blogilaties when she tells me to (try) to enjoy the burn, I only want to feel it under the skin, not on it.

I don't burn easily, I tend just to tan, but that doesn't mean I'm taking any chances when it comes to protecting my skin and hair.

I rely on an extensive list of products with different spf's and different jobs. So I am well set for any and all situations/time of day.

Banana Boat - Kids powder-dri - spf 30

This is my favourite sun tan lotion for on the beach. It may be for kids but I'm just a big kid so I don't care. Ha.
It smells just like bananas for a start, and not in a sickly sweet way. Just ah-may-zing.
The best thing about this though is that it dries instantly like a powder! Which means you don't have sand getting stuck all over you at the beach.

Malibu spf20 dry oil spray

This is what I use when I'm out and about on holiday. It's easy to use as it sprays like a mist more than a leak like so many spray sun protection. It spreads and rubs in easily without any effort at all. Also it has no chance of white marks with this one. It really does dry as a good dry oil should too.

Malibu spf8 bronzing tanning oil

Now this is a controversial one. First let me say this should only be used by people who don't burn and tan very easily. I only ever use this on the areas like my tummy that tan very well and never show any redness, never on my face or shoulders. I would also not recommend this as your only source of sun protection or for use when out walking on a trip.
When I do use this (for short periods of time) it gives a lovely golden tan, and my akin never feels dry.

Malibu spf15 scalp and hair protector

This is a lovely non oily spray that I love using. How many of you have burnt the scalp at the parting in your hair? Ouch much? And sun damaged hair is so hard to get back into good condition. This is an easy to use, cheap, no fuss product that does its job well. Sorted.

For after sun I have two favourites that I switch between depending on how my skin is feeling.

Banana Boat Aloe Vera Gel
I use this when Ive spent longer in the sun during the day or maybe just on parts of my body that has dried out slightly more during the day. It cools and soothes better than any after sun i have tried before and as its a gel it dies off super quick so no sticky feeling.

Malibu Moisturising After Sun With Tan Extender
I use this more in the later stages of the holiday when Ive got a bit more of a good tan going and then continue using it when i get back. It really does help with the tan having a tiny bit of fake tan in it so its basically a very low concentration of gradual moisturiser going on.

Now these do weigh a lot all together which is why i usually decant some into smaller and lighter bottles, also if its me and Mr BeautyandKittens going on holiday then we would have half in each case so it works out quite well.

These are now going to bed in my suitcase so ready for my Hen do Holiday. Only 10 days to go :D

Maybe ill vlog some of it.:p

Lorna :D

August Clothing '13 Wishlist

2013-08-12T22:43:00.000+01:00

Its August and the tiny bit of summer we had is a far distant memory. This means new season shopping time for me and I've been seeing quite a few things that have been tickling my fancy.

The first lot are my absolute LOVES this month and the second lot are just things i really really like.

Topshop - Satin and Velvet Strap Bralet - £25

Zara - Leather Ankle boots with straps- £89.99

Topshop - Petite Long line Leather-look Biker Jacket - £75

Zara - Chain Clutch bag - £29.99

Topshop - Light Check Boyfriend Throw on Coat - £75

Topshop - MOTO Washed Black Mom Jeans - £40

Topshop - Bright Fluro Shirt - £38

Topshop - GESTURE Panelled Hi Court Shoes - £62

Topshop - Colourblock Bowler Bag - £35

...So I'm liking my Topshop this month it seems.

No way ill be affording all of these (or any :p) but a girl can dream eh?

July Favourites

2013-08-07T21:43:00.000+01:00

Now hello there,i know I've said i was back before but i now actually am. With a post to prove it and everything. I'm going to do a wee post on why I've been absent in the next few weeks but until then here's my July favourites! :D

Now not too many this month and a few unexpected ones maybe but these have been saving my life in the clammy heat.

Rimmel Match Perfection Cream Gel

I love this foundation in the heat. As a gel texture it feels so cooling in my skin and glides on lovely. It feels very thick when you first feel it but it feels like water on your skin and i feel like theres nothing on my skin. That being said it gives a good medium coverage and lasts a good 5 hours without needing a single touch up (or a wipe down with the ol' blotting papers).

I tend to buy this from Watt Brothers so it only costs me £3.99.

Caudalie Grape Water

This is the BEAST of all water spray i have ever came across. It is an actual light mist! So you don't feel like your facing into a downpour in the rain. It freshens and refreshes to well without messing your makeup up.

I got it from Feel Unique here.

Ben Nye Luxury Powder - Banana

This was new to me this month, and i am hooked! I need powder on my face everyday because of how oily my skin is but i hate the look and feel of it. This is like nothing else. You could slap half the tub on your face and it wouldn't look cakey at all. It smooths and evens and stops oil very well. This tub was £7.50 but there is SO much in it that it will last years!

Percy & Reed Quite Frankly Flawless Finishing Polish

This has been keeping my dry and frizzy hair tame looking even if it actually isn't. What i really like about this though is that its completely non sticky unlike so many other hair smoother's. It smells lovely too.

Lee Stafford (I hate my hair the day its washed) Solution Spray

I wasn't sceptical when i bought this but got it anyway as it was £1.99 in a discount store and I.AM.SO.GLAD! It really is amazing, my hair isn't fluffy and untamable. Instead i have lovely sleek and manageable tresses which i can actually work with. The prince would defo be able to climb up it to the highest tower to rescue me with this baby.

It also smells freakin amazing, its the typical Lee Stafford scent but i love it, as words cant describe.

Lastly we have my lovely new notebook. I got it in TKMaxx for a bargain £3.99. Its distressed soft leather with aged style paper with wrap around ties to keep it all tidy. I absolutely love it!

So sorry i have been away so long but i promise that's me back. Pinky Promise.

Lorna xxx

My Wheres Wally Moment...

2013-04-25T13:53:00.001+01:00

Soon! Soon I will return to you. I have been having a really hard time recently and needed a break from blogging. But i should be back next week with one hell of an epic haul. Retail therapy right?

Love you all
Lorna

Step into my Wardrobe #1

2013-03-17T11:00:00.000+00:00

This is the first outfit of the day post i have done and ill be keeping it short and sweet.

This dress is my new favourite. It was £10 from Primark. The 6 fits me perfectly.
My tights are also primark and are the £3.50 fleece lined ones.
My wee boots that you can barely see are from New Look and are my faves as well.

Apologies for the terrible photos my fiance manages to take, this was honestly the best of a very bad bunch. He also neglected to tell me my hair was doing that weird sticky out thing at the side.

Lorna xxx

DaintyDoll Blushes

2013-03-16T21:37:00.000+00:00

Firstly may i say. Epic post alert. alert. alert.

You may have saw in my last haul post that i got a fair amount of DaintyDoll blushers. I have been really impressed with these blushes so here is a whole post dedicated to them. I was only going to get one originally but they were only £1.99 at FragranceDirect! When they should cost £13.50.

First lets just get one thing straight. I may have pale skin but I'm really not in Nicola Roberts territory. I'm a comfortable Mac NC 20-22 and i tan realllllly well when in the sun. (odd for a Scottish lass). This said these still so well for me, very wearable.

I got three cream blushes and two powder blushes.
Three Cream With Normal Light Top - 02 Orange County Girl Left - 03 Billion Dollar Babies Right - 01 Paper Roses

Three Cream with good flash
Top - 02 Orange County Girl
Left - 03 Billion Dollar Babies
Right - 01 Paper Roses

Powder Blushes
01-Hippy Shake and 04-You are my Sunshine

How pretty are there colours:D:D:D I really love them.

Cream in daylight
L-R
01-Paper Roses, 02-Orange County Girl, 03-Billion Dollar Babies

Paper Roses is a lovely baby pink with no shimmer
Orange county Girl is a peachy coral with a faint shimmer
Billion Dollar Babies is a slightly mauve muted brown. A really pretty nude.

Cream in normal inside light
01-Paper Roses, 02-Orange County Girl, 03-Billion Dollar Babies

Cream with flash
01-Paper Roses, 02-Orange County Girl, 03-Billion Dollar Babies

With the flash these definitely take on a more pastel shade. I definitely had to swatch these very heavily for these photos. When applied with my real techniques stippling brush these actually apply very subtly, but not too subtly.

Powder with Flash
01-Hippy Shake and 04-You are my Sunshine

Hippy shake is a very pale lilac/pink that i use as a highlight

You are my sunshine is very similar to Orange County Girl but a little less coral.

You can see from below that there is quite a difference in shade with and without flash in the powder once compared to the cream.

Powder in normal light
01-Hippy Shake and 04-You are my Sunshine

These blushes are all very pigmented, especially the cream ones. When applying to my cheeks i use my Real techniques Stippling brush for the cream ones and my Crown contour brush for the powder ones. My standard for blush. These brushes really only need to be dabbed into the pot lightly to get started. These can all be built up easily though depending on your preference.

I found when using the powder ones that there was exceptionally little fall out which is great as i store my makeup a bit haphazard and fallout equals mess.

The cream ones are not the easiest i have to blend, im just spoiled with my love of Stila convertible colours, but they don't cause any problems if you take your time and have good brushes.

The powder ones lasted a good 4 hours before needing reapplied on my oily skin which just burns through makeup, not a bad time and the cream ones lasted a really good 6 hours.

To be honest my only criticism about these is not even really mine, I don't understand how these colours would work for very pale people i would think they would be much to strong, but what do i know eh?

New BeautyAndKittens Etsy Shop

2013-03-16T19:45:00.000+00:00

Hi guys. Just a really quick post here to let you all know that BeautyandKittens now has a shop on Etsy, it had just started and i would really appriciate people having a wee look at it and maybe sharing with friends and family if you like anything. http://www.etsy.com/shop/BeautyAndKittens Lorna xxx

REN Clean Skincare set: Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask and Radiance Perfection Serum.

2013-03-15T00:23:00.000+00:00

I was in John Lewis the other day because i needed something to sort my skin out, it has been very dull and temperamental recently and i had decided on trying REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask. This is a little pricey at £30 for 50ml but i had read so many great reviews that i thought it would be worth it. Coincidentally i had also been wanting to get new muslin cloths for using with my No.7 Hot polish Cleanser. I has intended to get the Liz earl ones which are £4 for 2 cloths available here. BUT, then i saw this little package on the bottom shelf.

It includes the REN Glycolactic Radience Renewal Mask 50ml, REN Radiance Perfection Serum sample 10ml and 2 REN Muslin Cloths. All for £30.

Can i just add in here that i think its really good they give a decent sized sample, i despise it when you only get 3-5ml samples that you cant really get a feel of the product with.

The REN Muslin Cloths feel exactly like the Liz Earl ones and sell at 2 for £6 here.

The REN Radiance Perfecting Serum usually is in 30ml jars and retails for £35, available from John Lewis. So the 10ml is worth £11.66.

Altogether this is worth £47.66, so that's a saving of £17.66!!!! Very happy with this:D

I have been using the serum every morning and night under my moisturizer. I was skeptical at first that this would be too much for my very very oily skin but it doesn't make it more oily at all, in fact i think it is actually helping it a bit which is leading me to think my skin might be oily and dehydrated? Is that actually possible?. My skin feels softer i think as well and it smells great, kinda like oranges.

The Mask itself im still on the fence about, Im just not sure its strong enough for my tough as boots skin. I don't feel a tingle like it says you will and my skin doesn't look any different when i take it off. But ill persist with it anyway and see if it will just take a long time because i have read so many amazing reviews about it.

On the left is the serum and the right the mask. The serum is creamy but thin, which i really like as i hate things not sinking in to my skin quickly. You also only need about half a pump of it so i think even this small tub will last ages. The mask is almost like a thin jelly and spreads thickly. It doesn't run down your face like some masks and it comes off easily, not clinging to your skin when trying to get it off.

To be honest ive not got much to say about the cloths except they feel lovely and soft and work really well.

Did anyone else get this absolute bargain from John Lewis?
Also can anyone recommend another similar mask product i could try?

Lorna xxx

Bye bye google reader. How to follow now.

2013-03-14T23:07:00.001+00:00

So as you will have seen on numerous posts cropping up recently Google Reader will be no more in a few months and this indicates that soon Google Friend Connect will be leaving as well (as it is sort of defunct without Google reader).
As you will have seen on other posts there are numerous ways to continue following blogs. Bloglovin for have developed a setting to move the blogs you follow on Google Reader to there. Simply go into your settings on bloglovin and almost at the bottom is a button to import your blogs from Google Reader.

Now i would like to follow my blog i would much apriaciate you now following through Bloglovin, SheSaidBeauty or HelloCotton. The icons for all of these are in my side bar. :)

NOTD #5

2013-03-11T10:00:00.000+00:00

So here is the nails i said would be up.

This is using my new Barry M Gelly polishes and damn do they shine like a mutha.

The blue is called Blueberry and the green Greenberry. Getting a little unimaginative there Barry M.

I also got new dotting tools from ebay (cost me a penny!!!!) so i was trying them out and got a little carried away.

Beware of the flash ~~of doom~~ though. It completely strips the colour from it and makes it look like ghost nails.

What are you all thinking about the Barry M Gelly Polishes?

Lorna

Haul - I shop too much #1

2013-03-09T14:00:00.003+00:00

Now obviously this isn't my first haul. Ive not lost my mind, but its my first this year. I would say i have done well if it was for any other reason than being too skint to buy stuff till now, and surprisingly, I'm skint again. This is a mix of Boots, Ebay, Fragrance Direct and Tkmaxx.

Dainty Doll - Various - RRP £13.50.

A selection of 5 daintydoll blushers which i got for £1.99 each. I wont say to much about these because they are coming up in a post soon, they are pretty awesome thought.

Barry M - Greenberry and Blueberry - £3.99

This is the Gelly polishes. I heard so many people raving about these and i didn't understand why. I have had one of the dark shades for a while but i never used it, it was gloppy, streaky and i did not see the shine. These shades looked so pretty though and were on sale 2 for £6 so i gave them a go. Glad i did as I'm in love. See these soon in a notd.

Garnier Ultimate Beauty Oil - £7.99

I haven't tried this yet but it smells lovely and i have high hopes after hearing Kate from Ghostparties talk about it.Found out after i bought this you can get it for £4.99 at ChemistDirect.

Revlon Nail Enamel - Demure - £4.99

Get this now for £0.99 at fragrance direct. I get most of my polishes from there. Glad this one did not smash before arrival.

This Works Tires Eye Serum - £32

Got this in TKMaxx for £12. Needed a new one and have really wanting to try more this works products. They also have a toner down to £7.

From what i can see i think this has been discontinued :( i cant find it to buy anywhere.

L'Oreal GlamShine Stain Splash - £7.99

Got this from boots, not sure about it yet. I'll keep you informed.

Korres Mint Tea Body Milk - £10

I love the mint tea shower gel so i jumper at this in TKMaxx for £4.50. It is £10 from Feel Unique.

Smells Amazing and Korres are a great eco/animal friendly company.

JK Jemma Kidd Mannequin Skin Complexion Enhancer - £14

Got this for £3.95 on ebay. Seens good and ive read great reviews. Ill let twitter know when i try it.

Leighton Denny Nail Laquer - Sex Kitten - £11

I got this for £2.20 on ebay. Cant wait to try it, as we all know Leighton Denny rules.

Current Skincare Rutine

2013-03-07T10:00:00.000+00:00

My skincare has really been upped lately so i thought id give a little post to update you on it.

La Roche Posey Efficlar Mat
La Roche Posey Efficlar duo
Ole Henriksen Truth Serum collagen Booster
Lancome Genifique Yeux
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye
Estee Lauder Advanced night Repair

In the morning i use my P50 after cleansing my face, but only on my forehead and chin. Once it has dried in a bit i tend to use Ole Henriksen Truth Serum which is an amazing serum that smells awesome but wont be repurchased as it is soooo expensive. Then i will use the famous Efficlar Duo to take care of my bumpy skin. I have been seeing an amazing difference in my skin with this, all the bumps are pretty much gone and no more appearing. Lancome Genifique Yeux is not my favourite eye cream ever but its what i have on the go at the moment so I'll pop a bit of that on until i finish it . Lastly i use my Efficlar Mat before starting on my Makeup. This moisturiser really helps control my oily skin throughout the day and my makeup lasts longer.

Then for my night time routine, after cleansing i use P50 again. Though this time on my whole face, except my eyes. When it has dried in a bit ill use the Estee Lauder serums on my face and my eyes. I have been liking the Advanced night repair set but i dont think yet that if lives up to the hype that is surrounding it just now. Sometimes i will use the Genifique Yeux again if my eyes are feeling pretty dry. They are the only bit of my skin that ever are. Another smothering of efficlar duo to keep all the evil bumps away and finally the antipodes Advocado Pear night cream leaves my skin perfectly sorted for the night of sleep ahead.

Recently i have been using the Clarins Lotus Face Treatment Oil at night before my serums. I. Am. Loving. It. :D

Wish List: My InLoveWithFashion competition wish list

2013-03-07T01:10:00.002+00:00

This collage is what i am now desperately scribbling down in my 'wish list' in my diary. Scrawled 5 stars next to them, yes i have a rating system of how much i need thins within my lists, don't ask.

This is actually my entry to a new competition that has be launched between EtailPR and InLoveWithFashion. The Etail Blogging Network run lots of great competitions for their registered bloggers and this is an especially good one. Having teamed up with InLoveWithFashion this competition gives us a chance to win a £200 voucher to spend at ILWF :)
To be in with a chance of winning all you need to do is create a 'wish list' style collage of your favourite pieces from ILWF and post about it on your blog

Black Peep toe Stud Heel Shoe - £45

Love Black Long Sleeve Wrap - £32

LOVE Raspberry Yoke Drape Dress - £34

Love Navy Marcella Dress with Pearl Collar - £38

ILWF Black Chelsea Boots - £36

Love Black Asymmetrical Drape Skirt - £28

Love Beige Sunray Pleat Skirt - £28

Love Stone Popcorn Crucifix Over sized Jumper - £40

I would get a lot of different outfits from this.

The three dresses are both so perfect for great day to night looks. For day time i would wear with the Chelsea boots , then slip on a little more jewellery and the peep toe heels and hey presto; night time perfection.
Both skirts would look great with the crucifix jumper half tucked in. I would also wear the black skirt with a basics top/tshirt, a statement necklace and converse trainers for a casual day out. The beige skirt would look super cute and sophisticated with a soft white shirt for a more polished look.
For days that i wouldn't want to wear a jacket i think it would look so cute to have the jumper over any of the dresses.
Scottish summer is sorted with denim shorts, low top converse, a vest top and this jumper thrown over so you don't freeze.

The black wrap dress and peep toe heels were what first caught my eye, they are stunning together. It might just happen that they accidentally ended up in my shopping basket on the site... and then my hand slipped and i accidentally entered my card details on the website. I didn't mean to buy then... honest.

The competition rules can be found here for you to enter yourself.

The In Love With Fashion website can be found here. They have a lot of lovely clothes, it took me a lot of effort to narrow it down to this, but i do like myself a capsule wardrobe.

Will you be entering, i would love to see your picks.

Lorna xxx

Didnt float my boat

2013-03-06T12:00:00.000+00:00

Now i don't want to go on and on about products that i don't like so i decided to put them all into one post.
Don't get me wrong there isn't anything wrong with most of these products, they just didn't quite work for me. I know to some people these are complete HG products but i just don't get the hype.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir
I dont really like the smell, i can stand it but it just gets to me. I also dont like the way it sprays more like a jug of water on my face. I prefer i nice light mist from these things.

Bare Minerals Original Foundation fairly light N10 8g
This is so cakey on me, so, so bad. The colour was actually very perfect but i hate the way it looks on me, no matter how i apply it.

Body Shop Hemp Hand Protector
The smell, on god the smell. Ugh it makes me smells sick. I bought this in a offer pack of 3 as well. It was a bad call on my part i must admit. I love the rose version of this mind you.

Kiehls Creme De Corps
This is a good cream, i will not deny that but it does not work for me. It doesn't sink into my skin properly and it feels sticky. It also does the turning into weird little bits thing when i rubbing it in.

Philip Kingsley Elastisizer
Everyone loves this. Like really really loves it. And i just don't get it. I have tried this all the ways everyone suggests. I have watched and re-watched, read and re-read Anna from viviannadoesmakeup posts on this and still it doesn't help me in anyway. I see no difference in my hair and it annoys me more than disappoints me.

Skinetica
Weird water than makes my skin a bit sore with continued use. Also i dont see benefits. I understand this works wonder for some people but for me nothing but sore patches.

Benefit It's Potent Eye Cream
This stings my eyes. Like Crazy. I think that's all i need to say about this.

Lancome bi-facil 30ml eye make up remover
I really don't like these half oil half water shake to activate things. They always feel so oily on my skin and not in a nourishing way. It also stings my eyes a fair bit.

Lancome Eau Micellaire Douceur
This does nothing for me. It does take makeup off but not easily and not without a fair bit of scrubbing.

What do you think of these?

Lorna xxx

Todays Hair #1

2013-03-05T19:31:00.000+00:00

So although i don't to anything intricate with my hair ofter i love changing my style, and i love trawling through hair tutorial videos and looking at photos and trying to re-create them.

This is the first post i have done on my hair, this look actually came about my accident as i was messing around with it trying to perfect a vintage roll and french curl thing and ended up with this.

Its my take on the classic 40's hair roll, but twisted and twirled.

Excuse the big kirby sticking out the middle, i didn't realise it has slipped out till i was here writing this.

I didn't actually take too much time to do this earlier but if i was to do it again i would incorporate my fringe into the curl.

...I would also make it a little less messy, this had been up for quite a few hours when i took the photo so considering i think its held up pretty well.

This is held together with only four kirbys, and one of them is holding my fringe back. It was incredibly easy to to. I twisted either side round and then twisted the two ends together and rolled the section up on itself. In all it took about five minutes to do.

What do you think? A little bit librarian-y with what I'm wearing but it could look lovely dressed up for a wedding or an event.

Lorna xxx

Todays Makeup #2

2013-03-02T17:28:00.002+00:00

First time doing this post with my new camera today, Im thinking of maybe even tackling a video with it soon. Since it was the first time, i went a little overboard with the photos :)
As always please ignore my ~~stroke~~ lopsided face.

In these im wearing:

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation - Vanila

Clarins Mineral loose Powder - Light

Revlon photoready cream blush - coral reef

Accessorize baked bronzer duo - pearl sands (as highlight)

MAC Brun for eyebrows

Stila Kitten Eyeshadow

Bourjois Blink Eyeliner - Black

Seventeen Dollface Mascara

Clarins rouge éclat Lipstick - Tropical pink

Now i like this picture and i don't care how dirty my windows are.
I might wash them today actually, pah like that will happen.

This was a bit of a different look for me but I quite like how it came out. :)

Lorna xxx