Melovemakeup | UK Beauty / Lifestyle Blog.

Beauty Blog Link Love 15/6/13.

2013-06-15T11:27:00.001+01:00

Polish insomniac shows off her love of blue and green with her 10 favorite nail polishes for summer.

Lipstick and Luxury shares 5 tips to help you grow and keep your hair healthy.

Krasey Beauty took her Cover Girl products to the gym! Find out how they held up!

Summer is about to start and FabDiva20 has hauled some amazing stuff from MAC Temperature Rising Haul.

Phyrra shows you how to install the Samsung SSD 840 Pro SATA II and speed up your laptop to make beauty blogging easier.

Your hair dye could kill you, yet grey hair at a young age is no fun. At Musing on Beauty, Mariella talks allergies, chemicals and other hair dyes dilemmas. Join the debate and share your solutions if you have any!

Beauty Reflections loves matte eyeshadows and has a review of the new Kat Von D Ladybird True Romance Eyeshadow Palette!

Jude reviews SkinMed Fillast Indepth Revitaliser and Terproline EGF and is blown away by the results!

Beauty Info Zone is having a love affair. Check out why this butter LONDON duo turns heads!

Looking for a light hand cream for summer? Be sure to check out this fabulous one by Tocca over at Beauty Blog of a Kind!

Need gift ideas for Father's Day? How about a Birchbox Man subscription? Pammy Blogs Beauty reviews a sample box for Birchbox Man!

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Keeping it Simple.

2013-06-14T11:47:00.000+01:00

So…I have pretty bad skin most of the time. Ever since my teens I have suffered from acne, and it never went away when I got out of my teens. It’s horrible and I would love to have perfect skin that I didn’t feel like I need to cover up all of the time.

In recent years I’ve been looking after it much more, using products that are supposed to combat bad skin, and also my Clarisonic, which has helped greatly! However, towards the end of last year and earlier this year, my skin was at the worst it had been for a long time, I have no idea what caused it – but it really, really got me down.

I made a decision then that I was going to simplify things in my skincare for a while, treating it as sensitive (which it isn’t really) and also trying to use more natural products so that I know what’s going onto my skin.

For the past month I’ve actually been using some basics that I haven’t used since I was a teenager, from the Simple Skincare* line. Their products are great for sensitive skin and do not contain perfumes and colours.

Their purifying cleansing lotion is a lovely rich consistency then turns lotion like when massaged onto the skin, it melts away my makeup without any hassle, even removing my eye makeup and not irritating my eyes.

The soothing toner is exactly that! It feels so cool and soothing to the skin; it removes any extra grime that might be on your face and it leaves it feeling refreshed. The best thing is that it’s not drying at all; it actually leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated with no tightness or discomfort.

I was intrigued by the exfoliating wipes, I normally use an actual Exfoliator, but these were really nice to use, and very gentle on my skin, they are great for travel and for freshening up. They left my skin feeling smooth and they don’t leave any residue behind. For me personally, I still like to use my usual Exfoliator twice a week, but these are perfect for in-between days.

The last product I’d like to mention is a surprise actually. I’ve tried roll on for the under eye before and never felt much of a difference, but the revitalising rollon from Simple feels so soothing under the eyes, it’s the perfect pick me up for tired eyes. It doesn’t feel sticky and you can feel the cooling soothing feeling for a few minutes after application. This is a must for the morning!

Overall I’ve really enjoyed using these products and treating my skin with more simple products that won’t irritate my skin. I’d definitely recommend them if you are looking to try something new. The whole range is so affordable too, which is always good!

Simple Skincare is on 3 for 2 in Boots at the moment. Link!

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The Body Shop Tea Tree Cool & Creamy Wash.

2013-06-07T16:58:00.000+01:00

For the past couple of months I've been trying out this new cleanser from The Body Shop, and it's most definitely worth a mention. I've tried the whole tea tree range from there before and I really like the products, so I was excited to try this. I love that it has the word 'cool' in it. When you have acne prone skin, products that feel cool on the skin feel so soothing on the skin.

What They Say:

Our new creamy wash is tough on blemish-causing bacteria but soft on skin. Tea Tree Cool & Creamy Wash* intensely cleanses and purifies, instantly removing all impurities and excess oils, without over-drying. From the very first use, skin looks fresher and feels softer.

My Thoughts:

I love it so much. It does leave my skin soft after use, it feels so soothing and so refreshing when you rinse it off, the skin feels icy cool - it's perfect for waking you up in the morning and great in this hotter weather we're currently having!

It's helped clear my skin up well too... Mine has been a bit of a nightmare lately, but with it's antibacterial properties, I have really noticed a difference with this. It's really creamy and creates a nice lather with my Clarisonic. If you have spot prone skin and want a soothing cleanser to help combat them, try this out. The best thing, it's only £5 too.

(I can't find it on their website, but try in store.)

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Beauty Blog Link Love 16/5/13.

2013-05-26T11:23:00.002+01:00

What does bacteria in your gut have to do with your skin? Musicalhouses finds out in her review of Lancome's Advanced Génifique Youth Activator!

Phyrra brings you the best in cruelty-free beauty brands! She includes her favorite products and international shipping information.

Love Rihanna? FabDiva20 is loving RiRi Woo. Check out her MAC RiRi Woo lipstick review and swatches!

Ombre hair: in or out? Sophie from Melovemakeup says in! Here is her how-to and review on Schwarzkopf Live Colour XXL.

What's green and green and... green all over? The Sephora + Pantone Universe Color of the Year collection, of course! Check out theNotice's review of this year's Emerald collection, with swatches of some seriously gorgeous greens.

If you're stuck on a new spring/summer fragrance for yourself or your beau, Kim suggests Le Labo Santal 33. Check her post to see why.

Project Best Face Primer - Bun Bun Makeup Tips investigates how the Monistat Chafing Relief Gel face primer performs after one year.

Cindy over at Prime Beauty shows you how to stay to cool and look fab at those pool/beach parties this summer with the new Make Up For Ever Summer 2013 Collection!

Looking for eyeliner inspiration? Gouldylox picks out some must have liners for summer.

Krasey Beauty competed again, and in her latest post she shares her beauty prep!

Beauty Reflections has fallen in love with another bronzer! This time it's the Clarins Splendours Summer Bronzing Compact. Are you a bronzer fiend too?

Jenn from Spiced Beauty shows off RiRi Woo, the perfect matte red lipstick for every skin tone.

Ready for heat and humidity? Need waterproof makeup? Beauty Info Zone has some favorites from Tarte, MUFE and Anastasia to help you manage the heat.

Lisamarie from Beauty Crazed checks out the latest and greatest from Clinique - A Different Nail Enamel For Sensitive Skins. Have a look at her swatches and think twice the next time you go to rub your eyes with freshly manicured nails!

Jenny creates a purply smoky eye with a caramel crease featuring Urban Decay, Naked Palette, and MAC over at My Funny Valentine.

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Win it!! Enter Pammy Blogs Beauty's Conair Styling Tools Giveaway!

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How-to Ombre: Using Schwarzkopf Live Colour XXL - Max Blonde.

2013-05-22T08:30:00.000+01:00

Hey everyone,

I hope you’re all good! :) Today I have another Ombre hair post for you. This is my third, which I know may seem like a bit much, but it’s my third time, and it’s a different dye, so I thought I would share it with you.

If you want to see my previous Ombre posts, the first is here, and then the second (which is actually one of my most popular posts) is here. I was so happy with the result after the second ombre, my hair was a nice length and I really loved how the L’Oreal Wild More kit has lightened my hair and blended so nicely.

After a couple of months though, I started getting bored – not with the ombre, but with my hair length, it was at that stage where I either wanted it to be longer, or have it cut. When I visited my Mum in December, I decided to go for the chop (she’s a hairdresser) ... Because I just really wanted a change.

I knew the cut I wanted (a long, choppy bob) was going to mean that all of ombre got the chop and I wasn’t sure if I was going to re-do it or not.

Anyway, I had the cut and was really happy with it at first, but then I got fed up with it quickly and I wasn’t sure why, I thought about dying it all red for a while, but decided I wanted to go back to my ombre… My natural colour all over was just blah and looked so dull and had no texture or oomph to it.

So I purchased a Live Colour XXL box dye to try out, (This was in late March 2013 - I am behind on this post!) It’s the dye my Mum uses on my sister’s hair and she said it would definitely lighten my natural hair colour (I used 00B Max Blonde). I looked at pictures of ombre on my length of hair and decided I wanted to add a few random streaks in with the ombre too, this is called baylayage I believe.

Before,during and after.

I was nervous about doing it on my own. The first two times were easier because my hair was longer and I could just put it in pigtails and work with it on either side. I went for it anyway, I used the same technique as I did with the L’Oreal dye, which was putting it on the ends to start, waiting ten minutes, then adding more further up my hair, and so on, until I got as far up the hair as I wanted to go, which was about three inches.

For the baylayage I just literally grabbed random strands of my hair and ran the dye through them. I was going to wrap them in foil, but I found I didn’t need to for a few thin streaks.

I left the dye for about 45 minutes total and this is the result. (Before and after)

I’m so glad I did it, it really gave my hair the boost it needed and made me feel good about it again, and I still do. I just like how it breaks it up a bit and defines it a little, especially because my hair is naturally curly.

My hair has grown loads since Christmas and is quite a bit past my shoulders now. Here’s how it looks.

And that’s my third ombre experience. What do you think? Better without the ombre, or with? I know lots of people are getting fed up of this look now, and think it’s sooo last year or whatever, but for me it works. No root maintenance and it jazzes up my hair!

Thanks for reading.

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Fancy Nails - With Elegant Touch!

2013-05-20T16:17:00.002+01:00

Hey guys!

I was recently given the chance to try out some pretty nails wraps from Elegant Touch*. I've only slightly dipped my toe in to the 'nail wrap' water before, and I managed to get myself in a terrible mess, creasing the wraps up and ending up with terrible looking nails.

This time I was determined to do well. I figured I would start with the 'accent nail' before moving on and trying a full manicure, it is actually pretty easy and I don't know why I struggled so much in the first place. Elegant Touch have some really cool designs for their wraps and they have really nice false nails too. I also have a funky set of those to try, but with my natural nails being okay at the moment, I am yet to try them out.

So, to use the wraps you just make sure your hands and nails are clean (and the shape you prefer) and then apply a base coat to your nails.. Let that dry and peel off the nail wrap from the sheet and place the curved end at your cuticle and press along towards the tip until it is flat against your nail. If you do get any creases, I found it pretty easy to straighten it quickly - then you just press on the wrap firmly for a few moments and file of the excess nail wrap.

They're said to last around five days, but I didn't keep my manicure for that long, but mine was perfect on day four before removal. I was certain the wrap would peel off or something, but it stayed put! Even through washing dishes, house work and showering. I'm very impressed and I'm excited to try others!

You can check these out here, and purchase them from Boots and Superdrug, or see here for stockists.

Let me know if you've tried these! I really like the look of the Little Mix ones.

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Life Lately, in Instagram Pictures.

2013-05-16T17:58:00.000+01:00

Hey Lovelies!

Today is an instagram photo collage of just some random ‘life’ pics and whatever. I did start doing these a while back, but they were on my iPod and I got out of the habit, but now I have a phone with Instagram on, so I’m pretty addicted. Make sure to follow me here!

1 - Just a fun, true quote. Normal is boring! If we were all normal and the same, it would be bor-ing!

2 - Bright, Spring nails! This shade is Hot Tropic from Look Beauty. Love it!

3 - The new Bourjois cream blusher in Nude Velvet. It's gorgeous!

4 - 'If it's meant to be, it will be.' I totally believe in this quote! Just leave it to fate.

5 - My face, coloured and edited times four!

6 - This speaks for itself. I love it!

7 - GOSH Boombastic mascara. The wettest, gloopiest thing! It didn't work for me.

8 - Oh look, me again. I love to just edit pics sometimes.

9 - Christina Aguilera. I have a girlcrush on her, she's gorgeous and confident and sexy! Who's with me?

10 - Another quote. Ca you tell I love these? I love this romantic one. I love romance. *Sigh*

11 - Rebel Lipstick from MAC. Love, love, love!

12 - No makeup and straight hair. Simples.

13 - My eye, bright makeup!

14 - Chicago. This is 'The Bean' I think. I just love the look of Chicago and have a friend there who I want to go see and meet! *Dream ~ Someday!*

15 - REN Facemask. This is da bomb, and I've only tried it once so far!

16 - My retro glam sunglasses. These were bargaintastic from Primark and I laaaav them!

17 - Makeup gifts from Christmas that I've been playing with!

18 - My Mum and I. She's my everything. <3

19 - The pretty sky! The sun was shining behind that cloud and I liked it.

20 - Candy love hearts.. How could I not take a photo of that!

That's all for now. I may do more of these if you like them. Don't forget to check these out of Instagram ad follow me there. Link!

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Vaseline Cocoa Butter Range.

2013-05-14T16:46:00.002+01:00

So the British weather has been terrible recently and terrible weather means dry skin – Yuk! Recently my saviour has been some products I’ve been using from the Vaseline Cocoa Butter Range.

I’ve used the original Vaseline petroleum jelly for years on my lashes, brows and lips to keep them hydrated. In recent years they’ve come out with different flavour Vaseline lip therapy tins, and loads of other things, like this range to look after your body – they also have products for men and deodorants..

Anyway, I have been loving the Cocoa Butter range, it smells absolutely divine and is so hydrating! It contains lovely Brazilian nut and Almond oil. They are all very reasonably priced too, which is always a bonus!

The Lip Therapy is cutely packaged in the mini tin and is a lovely lip balm. I always have one of these tins with me always, one is by my bed, one on my desk – I just love it. The best thing about these is that they’re only £1.99! The Cocoa butter is such a yummy taste and scent and makes a change from the plain one.

The Gel Body Oil is one of the standout products for me. I love the smooth feeling of this oil, this doesn’t feel greasy at all and I love to use this straight after a shower, I massage it into damp skin and it soaks in super fast and leaves my skin feeling and looking so radiant. This is £4.69.

The Smoothing Body Butter is so rich and thick; it is so smoothing and sinks in nicely without any sticky residue. This is £4.69 for a huge tub, and it lives up to any other body butter I’ve used, and is half of the price. I keep catching my boyfriend using this after a bath – sneaky!

Last but not least, The Radiant Rich Lotion. This is a nice consistency and a little really goes a long way, it leaves my body feeling hydrated and my skin has a nice glow after using this. I really like to use lotions because I find they’re quicker and easier to use. This lotion is such a bargain at just £2.93 for 200ml. I’d highly recommend it.

The best thing is really luxuriating and using a couple of the body products together, the skin feels so smooth and plump and just has a nice healthy glow about it. These have kept me free of dry flaky skin in the colder months… and when summer finally arrives (I hope!) they will be my go to products for then too. If you want to smell delicious, look radiant and feel hydrated, this bargain priced range is one to try!

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Beauty Blog Link Love 11/05/13.

2013-05-11T13:12:00.000+01:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Beauty Look Book: Purple and Gold Glamour | Melovemakeup.

2013-05-08T13:18:00.002+01:00

I'm trying my best to post a FOTD every so often. As usual, I have a ton of them saved, but no products listed. I'm thinking of posting some anyway.

This look was a combination of purple and gold - I love how they compliment each other, so I thought I would try a glam, party type of look with the shades. You'll notice from my looks that they are mostly dramatic. I love that look most, I like lots of black so that a look stands out. But don't get me wrong, I do wear natural too, usually if I'm going to the shops or whatever.

Anyway, enough talk, here's what I used.

FACE:

Liz Earle Signature Foundation

Rommel Stay Matte Powder

Sleek Contour Kit

Revlon Rose Rapture Mosaic Blush

EYES:

Urban Decay primer Potion

NYX Jumbo Pecil (White)

120 Manly Eyeshadow Palette (Purples/Blues)

H&M Glitter Black Eyeshadow

Urban Decay Half Baked

Urban Decay Zero 24/7 Pencil

Eve Pearl Liquid Eyeliner Pen

Rimmel Lash Celebrator Mascara

Outer Corner Eyelashes (Ebay)

LIPS:

Sleek Mystic Lipstick

MAC Girl About Town Lipstick

That's all for now! I hope you like the look.

Thanks!

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Bourjois - Little Round Pot Cream Blush.

2013-05-07T17:44:00.000+01:00

I love cream blusher! How about you?

I love the effect that they give to the skin and how they look so fresh and natural when blended into the skin.

These new gems from Bourjois are velvety soft, cream to powder blushers, available in four gorgeous shades for just £7.99 each.

I can't wait to give them a try! They will be available from Boots stores from May 15th. However, if you don't wish to wait, you can get them now in Selfridges, and Selfridges online. Link!

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– FM Cosmetics Products/Review.

2013-05-06T10:31:00.001+01:00

Hey everyone! Today I have a post about a makeup brand that I recently tried out.

Now, being a blogger, I sometimes get sent products to try out and post about if I choose to… So when I got the email about this brand (FM Cosmetics), I was really excited, as I love to try new makeup, especially new brands! I had never even heard of this brand before, So I took a look at their catalogue and emailed back with a yes please!

So, a few days later I got rather large package from them with a lot of things to try out! I kid you not, they sent quite a few things for me to try, which I am so grateful for. I do think it’s important to test more than one or two products, as every brand and range have good and bad products.

I've spent the past month (maybe a little more), using them in my routine, trying them all about, and I wanted to mention a few of my faves..

The Second Skin Foundation is a very lightweight, light/mediun coverage, buildable foundation. I really love how it looks on the skin, and the glass pump bottle packaging for £12.99 is impressive.

The Shiny Nude Glossy Lipstick has such potential to be a popular product! It's such a nice shade, very natural without giving concealer lips, and the glossy finish means that it is hydrating and looks good on the lips.

The Nail Lacquer and Extra Rich Lipstick in Hot Red. Wow, BAM! These are bright and sexy! Like a bright, in your face red, I love having the two match. The lipstick is so pigmented but such a perfect glamour red shade. The polish is great for any time, but I can't wait to put it on my toes for Summer.

I also love their Mineral Eyeshadow Trio in Chocolate Mousse. The little compact is cute, the pattern over the eyeshadow adds a nice touch, and the shadows have really good pay-off ad are great day to day shades. They're also very buildable for an intense look and they have a lovely satin finish.

I hope that gives you a bit of an idea. You'll see these popping up in some FOTD looks soon, I'm sure of it. I'd definitely recommend taking a look at their website. The prices are great and so is the quality. Link!

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What's In My Handbag?... Spring Spruce Up Kit!

2013-05-01T11:21:00.001+01:00

What’s In My Handbag is a new site (to me) that I only discovered a few weeks ago when I saw another blogger mention it on Facebook.

I didn’t really know what it was at first, but I looked into it and it’s a great little site, full of features from other bloggers, and they have these beauty themed boxes that you can buy from them, they come with a range of products and there are different ones that you can choose from.

I have the ‘Spring Spruce Up Kit*’ which costs just £14.95 from the What’s In My Handbag website, but contains products that would usually cost £44!

So let me talk about the products…

- ROQUES ONEIL Therapie Himalayan Detox Salts.
I have given these to my other half and he is looking forward to trying them out after a long day at work.. I’m more of a shower girl, so I wouldn’t use them. They contain juniper, lemongrass and rosewood essential oils, therapeutic Himalayan pink mineral salts and powdered amethyst. They are said to help to clear physical and emotional toxins. They sound great!

- Elemental Herbology Cell Plumping Moisturiser SPF8.
This smells great and is a lovely hydrating moisturiser that leaves my skin feeling smooth and plump. It’s quite an intense cream, so would be great on dry skin, I like to wear it over night and my skin feels great the following day. This contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and ultra-hydrating botanicals.

- James Read Gradual Tan Face Medium.
This is a moisturiser with gradual fake tan built in. I’m kind of terrified of fake tan and I am an embrace the pale kind of girl, so I didn’t use this. I did swatch it on my hand and forget though. For days afterwards I have a brown swatch mark, the colour was good and natural looking, but that’s all I can really tell you!

- Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.
Okay, not gonna lie. I was the most excited about this product! It is a cult product that have heard and read soooo much about, and I’ve always wanted to try it out. So it’s a fast dry topcoat, you apply it onto your nails after painting and they dry super fast and have a super glossy look to them. It lives up to what I expected! I am terrible with polish and it never lasts, but I’ve had this on top of a shade for three days now, and we’re still going. Actually, I think it might be time for a change. I love this product! I don’t think I’ll ever want to be without it now.

So, that was my Spring Spruce Up Kit from What’s In My Handbag! I am super happy with it and love the idea that you can choose a kit that appeals to you. I want the one with the Tangle Teezer in! (Dying to try one of those!)

Definitely check out their website here, and if you fancy making a sneaky purchase, I have a special 20% off code for you! Just enter LOVEMAKEUP20 at the checkout until May 31st on orders over £10.

Beauty Blog Link Love 28/4/13.

2013-04-28T09:12:00.000+01:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jenn from Spiced Beauty shows you her favourite lip gloss that costs under $3.00!

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Do you change your beauty routine as the seasons change? Check out how Pammy Blogs Beauty tweaks her routine for spring and summer. Plus, enter to win $500 of Jergens products!

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

Amazing Dupe!! Sigma Brush Cleaning Mitt/Glove.

2013-04-25T16:26:00.000+01:00

So there I was last week, browsing the aisles in my local Tesco, when suddenly something caught my eye. I rushed over to take a look and grabbed it off the hook to inspect it excitedly. My boyfriend followed me and gave me a look that said he thought I was going slightly crazy.

It was then that I explained to him about the cleaning glove that Sigma recently brought out for cleaning makeup brushes, and how it cost about $40, and there was so much controversy about whether or not a glove with nubs and textured bits was worth that much.

The Tesco glove had texture that I thought would be enough for removing grime out of my brushes, while keeping my hand dry, and it’s lined too.. So I purchased it and tried it as soon as I got home. It’s amazing! I am sold. I admit, when I first saw the Sigma one, I thought it was a great idea, but the price was a major turn off!

So this lovely lime green handy dandy silicone oven glove does just the job. It has a larger texture and then a finer one too, but I like to use the large one for all of my brushes.

I have to tell you, it works like a charm! Just wet the glove, dampen the brush, use a little baby shampoo and lather for a few seconds and rinse for lovely clean brushes! I like the little grip part between the thumb and fingers too; it works great for squeezing out the excess water from the brush when you’re done. The glove is textured on both sides too, so perfect for left or right handed people.

It worked amazing for the Beauty Blender Sponge too, which I always struggle to clean thoroughly.

So, if like me, you liked the idea of the Sigma glove, but didn't want to fork out a stupid amount of money, check out your local stores for silicone oven gloves. Fee from MakeupSavvy actually had the same idea and got a better deal than I did, on Ebay. Check out her post.

April / Spring 2013. 'Pearl Lowe' Glossybox.

2013-04-23T10:28:00.000+01:00

This months GLOSSYBOX* is a Spring Special in collaboration with Pearl Lowe.

I have to say, this has been a favourite for me this month. The past couple or so (apart from March, which I didn't receive for some reason, I think my postman is a thief!) haven't impressed me as much, but this one has some lovely things in.

My two favourites are the Nip & Fab Body Butter (It smells amazing!) and the Essie polish, although it's a very sheer shade (Sugar Daddy) and I'd have rather had a brighter shade. The Yves Rocher mini cream sample wasn't really needed in a box that already has a body butter either, but there you go. The Richard Ward hair product is said to revive hair and sounds kind of intriguing! Lastly there is a face mask from Balance Me... I have tried the eye cream from them (it came in a previous Glossybox) and I really enjoyed it, so I am excited to try this!

What did you get in your Glossybox?

(I also have a video on my Glossybox here.)

Keeping My Tablet Computer Nicely Snugg!

2013-04-16T17:31:00.001+01:00

Hey Guys,

So last year I desperately wanted to purchase a tablet to be able to use when I’m travelling and at home when I don’t want to set up my laptop. I couldn’t afford anything too expensive, but I did manage to pick up a reasonably priced Android Tablet, which I love! I use it mostly for reading to be honest, but it does come in handy for reading blogposts and watching videos on You Tube.

Mine didn’t come with any accessories really, so I purchased a stylus and a cheap case from Ebay, which was plasticy and not very protective feeling really.

But recently I heard about a website called The Snugg, they sell cases for iPad’s, iPhone’s and other tablets. I wasn’t sure which would be good for mine, as it isn’t an expensive or well known branded one, but after a bit of research on the dimensions of mine, I figured it was pretty similar in size to the 7” Kindle Fire. So I got The Snugg Black PU Leather Kindle Fire Cover* and hoped it would fit.

It was a bit of a tight squeeze, but it slipped in and feels very snugg (!) and safe in it’s new case. The case is really nice quality, it feels so sturdy and safe for my tablet, the leather it super soft, it has a nifty little place to keep my stylus, and it also stands up, or at an angle – which is perfect when you’re using it, rather than having to just hold it (or prop it against something, which I was doing!).

I absolutely love the case, the leather feels really great quality and expensive.

Haha. Hello Blog!

I am so happy with mine. I've been recommending it to lots of friends who own gadgets. If you need a new case for your iPad, Phone or Tablet, definitely check out TheSnugg.co.uk they have a big range too.

Beauty Blog Link Love 14/4/13.

2013-04-14T11:53:00.000+01:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Freeze 24-7, Skin Products!

2013-04-09T14:20:00.002+01:00

I’ve recently been trying out a couple of products from the brand Freeze 24-7. I had never even heard of them before, but on doing some research I discovered that they recently came to the UK from the USA.

There have quite a few products in their range that sounds like mini miracles for your skin, and after trying out what I have, I am intrigued to see what their other products perform like.

The two products I’ve been trying out are the Skin Glacé Daily Detoxifying Cleanser & Mask*, and the Instant Smoother & Brightener*.

So let’s talk about my thoughts!

First up, the Cleanser/Mask. I absolutely adore multi task products so much, and this is great and so refreshing on the skin. It reminds me of an Oxygen Face Mask that I own from Bliss when I use it as a mask. This product foams really well and is great for a quick cleanse, it removes face makeup really easily, I much prefer it as a mask though, after massaging it into the skin it foams and foams, then the foams bubbles dissipate and you can feel then popping on your skin, it is super refreshing and left my skin feeling really bright and very clean looking and feeling - I even felt like my pores were much clearer after this.

The Smoother/Brightener product excited me, because it sounded so good from what I had read. This product is like a primer for the face if you want it to be - but again, it is multi use, you can put it over makeup for brightening, and under makeup for smoothing/brightening. I prefer to apply it underneath and I love what it does, it really fills in and smoothes out all of my flaws, helping my foundation to just glide on and look fresh. With this on my makeup lasts really well too .. always a plus! I find when I use it underneath my eyes before concealer that it stops it from creasing and looks SO much brighter for longer.

These are more pricey skin care products, but you can feel that they are quality when you use them. I absolutely have loved using them - they are are luxurious.

Cleanser and Mask Available here.
Smoother and Brightener Available here.

Deille UK : Imperial Crown.

2013-04-07T14:27:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone,

Long time no post! I've finally got around to taking some pics for my blog and will be doing some more posts soon!

Today I wanted to show you this lovely Nail Polish from Dielle UK. They sell some gorgeous nail polish shades and when they asked if I would like to try one out, I said oui!

This shade was most eye catching for me. I love lilac as a spring/summer shade, I thought this would be a nice change, it's not completely different, but much brighter than a lilac. Imperial Crown* is described as a plum with a light purple undertone, it is part of their brights collection.

The shade is gorgeous, very pigmented and opaque within two coats, dry within about ten. The finish is so glossy and my nails felt strengthened by it too. I wore it for three days without any chips too (with no topcoat), that's good for me! - I'll have a nail post with it on my nails when mine have grown a little, I broke one last week and had to chop them all. Grr!

Dielle polishes are toxic free too, which is a major bonus (Free from Toluene, Formaldehyde, DBP, Camphor, & Pthalic Acid.)

Check out the Dielle Nail Polish range here.

Beauty Blog Link Love 30/3/13.

2013-03-30T18:15:00.001Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beauty Look Book: Green (Irish) Eyes | Melovemakeup.

2013-03-20T15:15:00.000Z

Last Sunday was 17th March, which is St Patricks Day (I'm sure you all know this!) So I decided do wear green themed makeup, just to get into the 'spirit' haha!

I seem to have used lots of Urban Decay for this look, it wasn't on purpose, but I do love their products, so...

EYES:
Urban Decay Primer Potion
Urban Decay 'Graffiti' Eyeshadow
Urban Decay 'Acid Rain' Eyeshadow
Urban Decay 'Zero' Eyeshadow
Urban Decay 27/7 Liner 'Zero'
Stargazer Matte 'White' Eyeshadow
L'oreal Super 'Black' Carbon Gloss Liquid Eyeliner
Outer Corner Lashes Ebay Multipack

FACE:
Max Factor Weightless Experience Foundation
Rommel Stay Matte Powder 'Translucent'
Revlon 'Rose Rapture' Blush
FCUK Bronzer

LIPS:
Bloom Cosmetics 'Deep Red' Lip Liner
New CID Lipstick 'Very Cherry'

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed. :)

Beauty Look Book: Stormy Smoke | Melovemakeup.

2013-03-18T16:25:00.001Z

Hey everyone!

I have an actual recent Beauty Look book today. This was Saturday's makeup. I pulled out one of my Sleek Makeup Palettes with my eyes closed, I ended up with the Storm Palette. I actually forgot how much I love this palette! It is so awesome for so many different looks. I didn't know what I was going to do, but this is what happened, it's just a smokey look with some gold/bronze. I honestly think I could go away for a week and just use this palette, it's so lovely.

EYES:
Sleek Makeup Storm Palette
Maybelline Gel Liner 'Black'
GOSH Velvet 'Black' Eye Kohl
Rimmel Sexy Curves Mascara 'Black'

FACE:
NYC 14 Hour 'All Day Long' Foundation
Rimmel Stay Matte Powder 'Translucent'
Bourjous Chocolate Bronzer '51'
MAC Mineralize Blush 'Gentle'

LIPS:
Barry M 'Red' Lip Liner
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Liptar 'Hush'

I hope you liked the look.. Sidenote, I re-ombred my hair after having the old lot cut off! I may do a post about that sometime soon, my last ombre post is super popular.

Have a fab week!

Bye Bye Google Reader + Other Ways To Follow!

2013-03-18T16:25:00.000Z

Hello lovely people!

I must live under a rock or something, because I only heard from seeing other people posting about it, that the google reader isn't going to be around for much longer. *Sad face*

If I'm honest, I personally don't, and never have used that to read blog posts, I use the old school blogger dashboard. But, if you do use google reader, you should prepare to lose it soon, and start following any of your favourite blogs in other ways.

So, this is just a little post to tell you all the other ways that you can follow me, should you wish to.

And you can click to subscribe by email (In the sidebar, over there!) >>>

Beauty Blog Link Love 17/3/13.

2013-03-17T12:06:00.000Z

K from Beautifully Addicted To gets dirty (well, clean) with Dirty Works Brightening Face Mask.

It could happen to you! Gouldylox has the tips to make sure your hair color doesn't become a disaster.

Do you love nail art? Well, be sure to visit Krasey Beauty for details on Sally Hansen's latest contest!

See why Kim Porter is loving the new IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush lip butters.

Hate cleaning your makeup brushes? Juli from Bun Bun Makeup Tips tells you why cleaning your makeup brushes will no longer be a chore with the Make Up Store Brush Cleaning Soap !

Color contact lenses: do they make Addicted to Beauty look cool, or just Twilight crazy?

Find out if the new China Glaze Hologlam collection holographic polishes live up to Anita's expectations. She has them all swatched over at Pleasureflush!

Anti-Aging foundation? Yes, please! Pammy Blogs Beauty tries out Paula's Choice new Resist Anti-Aging Foundation and Serum.
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Can a tiny little pill really improve your skin? Prime Beauty has been taking care of skin from the outside in for the last 12 weeks: she what she has to say and enter to win a 90-day supply of Imedeen Time Perfection supplements (a $206 value)! Take care of your skin from the outside in!