Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

Sunday, 13 October 2013

Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips


I have tried and tested this product, finishing the entire pack, and I have to say I've been left pretty impressive. It certainly didn't give my pores a 'deep cleansing,' and for the price I expected a little more. Perhaps my skin is just stubborn, but I can honestly say this didn't do anything for my skin so I wouldn't recommend it. 

On that note, can you point me in the right direction of pore cleansing strips?! 


Sunday, 6 October 2013

Soap & Glory- No Clogs Allowed





My love for this product was slow to take place, but I think it's fair to say that me and the NO CLOGS ALLOWED are now BFF's. At first, this caused my skin to seriously break out (the exact opposite of what I wanted to happen) but it eventually calmed down, and I've used this twice since and my skin is clearing up really nice.
What I love about this product is the heat activation aspect, it doesn't last for the entirety of the 5 minutes so it's not too overbearing but it adds to that 'oooh my skin is being cleaned' feeling. This product also has a delightful bubblegum smell, making it even harder to resist.
I was a bit scared to try this product as I have super sensitive skin, and I'm prone to allergic reactions with a lot of Soap & Glory products, but I really would recommend giving this a try!


Tuesday, 17 September 2013

Black Cherry (477) - Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick




Value for Money
★★★★☆
Longevity
★★★☆☆
Application
★★★★☆
Texture
★★★★☆
Colour
★★★★☆
Would I recommend?

 ★★★★☆

RRP £7.49


  • Lipstick has a bit of a shine and feels moisturising when applied to the lips. 
  • Appears darker when applied than when swatched.
  • Easy to apply- lasts for about 3 hours.
  • Can be layered for a darker appearance.


Monday, 16 September 2013

Product Reviews


Hi Lovelies!

I'm back to beauty blogging (hoorah) at long last! I've found myself feeling pretty uninspired of late, and then I looked at a huge pile of beauty products I'd been storing up with the intention of blogging, but the time had been and gone.
This has led me to a new 'series' (if you will) of posts. I've got a lot of posts lined up, each reviewing an individual product. I know that when I'm looking into new products, I want to find quick, easy and honest reviews- I'm not interested in face of the days post or anything like that, I just want to know that the product is like.
All products will be compiled on an easy to find 'product review' list to make browsing a little easier.
I hope this is of some use to people, I've really enjoyed getting to know my new camera whilst taking a few snaps of products. I'm aiming to have these posts more photo heavy than text based, but as this a 'new' thing I'm trying; let me know if I'm missing out any useful details! 
The bulk of the review will be a rating system, but if I have a little something extra to say, of course it will go in there! 

The first one will be posted tonight, and I'll *try* and post about 2 a week.
Let me know what you think of this new idea!

-K
x 

Sunday, 25 August 2013

Skincare Routine- Week 1 Update

Hi Lovelies,

Last Sunday you may have seen my first skincare routine post- week 0. I set myself a new routine, and I wanted to see what the results were like after the first week. I wasn't expecting miracles, but that's the amount of time it tends to take for me to know if my skin loves/hates a product!

Firstly, I'd like to give myself a massive pat on the back because I have actually stuck to it. More than that, I like my new routine! I actually enjoy taking my make up off now, and I can hear my skin sigh with relief when I treat it to the new products.
The only difference to my original routine is the addition of Skinetica, I'm sure you've all seen plenty about the product- but I really am a massive fan of it. I started using it a few months ago, and I only stopped because I had ran out and forgotten to order some more. I finally ordered some, and they arrived on Wednesday, so I've been applying it once in the morning (before moisturising) and once at night (after applying all of my products.) As always, this has really calmed down my blemishes without irritating the rest of my skin.

My skin is still far from perfect, but after it's allergy reaction fiasco, I'm so happy with the results of these products. They've really calmed it down and helped bring it back to something that resembles health. The previous dryness of my skin has completely calmed down, and it's not at all sensitive or sore anymore.
I'm also getting into the habit of cleaning my brushes more frequently- because if I'm trying to improve every other aspect of my skincare regime, I may as well include those too!

Would you like to see an individual review of the products I've been using? Let me know!!





- K
x

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Tuesday, 20 August 2013

Prairie Charms Haul



I was contacted by some lovely people from the online store, Prairie Charms, to see if I would be interested in participating in 'Project Blogger.' I jumped at the chance, because let's be honest, who can resist a nice 50% off on lovely products! I had intended to only purchase a couple of items, but I got a bit carried away- here are the goodies I chose!

Kaiya Multi Wrap- £8


I love the 'home made' look of this item, and I love it even more because you can wear it in so many different ways; necklace, bracelet, hair band or bag accessory (and I'm sure in more ways if you're a little more adventurous!) I just think this is something nice to wear with a casual outfit, I always need accessories so rather than glamming something up a bit, I can go for this!

Millie Wrap Bracelet & Knot Hair Ties

Unfortunately the wrap bracelet is no longer available on the website, but this is another item that can be worn in more than just one way! I would happily wear it with or without the charms, but I think they add a nice bit of shine whilst still remaining simple and easy to wear.
The hair ties were a nice treat that had been sent to me, in purple and in red (not pictured here.)  I remember thinking how nice they looked, but didn't bother to order them. I'm so glad they were sent to me anyway as I've lived in them. They're just something nice and simple to brighten up an otherwise run of the mill ponytail, and they really do stay secure in my hair (which even normal hair bands fail to do!) 


Quinn Retro Headband- £8

Headbands are something that I love the look of on other people, but I'm yet to get to grips with wearing them myself. I still have a lot of experimenting to do, which these are great for! Not only is the pattern beautiful and perfect for (what's left of the) summer, the headbands have a piece of wire running through them so they hold the shape, meaning you can twist them in to whatever you'd style like and they'll stay there!
Despite never having worn them before, I couldn't choose just one pattern, so I opted for two! 


Do any of you have any advice on ways I can wear the headbands? I have fine hair so I struggle with styling at the best of the times! 

Let me know if you check out Prairie Charms! 

-K
x





Sunday, 18 August 2013

Skincare Routine- Week 0

Hi Lovelies!

This is a first for me, but I thought I'd make a post on skincare routines. This has a bit of a twist to it though, as this is a new routine for me and I'll be updating over the next couple of weeks to let you know how I'm getting on with it.
There's a couple of reasons for this; I recently had a really bad reaction to a blemish cream called Quinoderm, I was fine with it for a couple of days and then my entire face became red, burnt, horribly dry and it's still recovering from this. I even have a small patch on my cheek where I think it's literally left a burnt patch.
The reason for my trying of this new cream was just to a recent break out and I found myself flitting between different products in an attempt to try and calm it down. As both of these attempts failed abysmally, I'm setting myself up with a strict routine containing products I'm pretty confident I won't react badly to.

I often feel like I'm fighting with a never-ending battle with my skin (it doesn't seem to realise that I'm no longer 13) and I refuse to believe that only high-end brands can work effectively; so all of these products are affordable, high street brands!

If you're curious about my skin type, here's a quick run down;
I have incredibly sensitive skin (allergic to most things,) prone to acne (particularly in the chin area,) open pores and currently my skin is still very dry from the recent reaction- it's usually normal/combination.

Morning Routine
I will be using these products every morning; cleansing, moisturising and then applying 'Perfect' Blur. These products aren't particularly new to me, but I'll be using them in a different way. 



I've been using this for a while now, and I know that as a rule of thumb, Simple products are inoffensive towards my skin. I like this simply because it feels like it really is cleaning my skin without leaving it dry or tight. 

Ayuuri Moisturising Indian Rose Face Cream
This has been my go-to moisturiser for such a long time, it's incredibly soothing although it's not the greatest at actually moisturising. I'm simply sticking with this because my skin doesn't react badly to this; and my only other moisturiser of choice (Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream) is a bit too pricey for me to afford at the moment. I usually use this every morning and night, but for now I'll be sticking with using it every morning before applying the 'Perfect Blur' cream.

This is a fairly new addition to my make up routine, and though I'm still undecided as to how effective the 'perfect blur' aspect is, I love how light weight and softening this is. It's the perfect base for my concealer and foundation.

Night Time Routine
These products are all new to me, so this really is where the test begins. I'll admit this, and you can all tell me off, I'm awful when it comes to taking off my make-up. I do remove it every night, but I'm ashamed to say it is through the use of face wipes; which is blogging has taught me anything, it's the biggest no-no in the book. Well, I'm ready to change my ways. This is where I'm hoping to see improvement. I'll be using these products every night, and no face wipes will be allowed (apart from the removal of stubborn mascara!) 


This is the product that will be guiding me into the world of NO FACE WIPES. I hope it doesn't disappoint. I didn't look into reviews for this, which is quite rare for me, but the packaging called out to me. I was drawn to the 'brightening' aspect of this as I've been feeling really run-down recently and I think this is starting to show in my overall complexion. 

This one speaks for itself, I'm not usually a fan of using lotions to remove my eye make up as it just seems to create more mess (/takes more time, and I'm lazy.) This might change my ways! As above, the brightening aspect appeals to me because I'm not too fond of the ghoul look I've been sporting recently.

I'll be honest, I was a sucker for the bottle and 'traditional' aspect of it, as there's likely to be loads of chemicals involved. The fact that it also acts as a toner and moisturiser appeals to the laziness in me! Also, it smells divine!

Weekly Routine
These products aren't new to my collection, however I'll be more structured in my use of them.
I'll be using the exfoliator mid-week (wednesday evening) and the face mask at the end of the week (sunday evening.)


The back of this bottle says to use this every morning and night, but to me (and for my skin type) this seems way over the top and is likely to only damage my skin. I know 'faster is better' is their tag line, but I've only ever found disasters when trying to find a quick fix to a blemish. I'll simply be using this to keep my pores clear.

I'll be using this at the end of each week just as nice treat for my skin. It doesn't do anything miraculous for me, but it really helps soothe my skin; and that's really all I ask for in life.  



That concludes my introduction to the skin post!
Please do let me know if this is something that interests you, or if you've done a similar post yourself!
I'll update this next Sunday (in 7 days) unless something miraculous/horrendous happens.

-K
x






Tuesday, 30 July 2013

I need you anyway.

Hi Lovelies!! 

I'm back with a haul, it feels like it's been so long since I've done one but I'm sure it really hasn't been all that long. I'll be posting a clothes haul soon, but for now here are there items I've picked up recently from Boots and Superdrug. I've realised I've missed out a few items, so expect another beauty haul sometime soon!

Unfortunately the photo quality isn't great, but I was eager to post this (so I could crack open the products and use them) and whenever I return home from work I miss the best of the daylight. 


Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya
Rimmel Kate Moss in 01
Sleek Blusher in Rose Gold
Garnier Perfect Blur
Gosh Brow Gel in Clear
Touch of Silver Conditioner
Simple Foaming Cleanser
Simple Revitalising Eyeroller
Simple Eye Make-up Corrector Pen
Ecotools Five Piece Complexion Set


I've been on a bit of skin care kick, mine is so temperamental and at the age of 21, it's now really starting to annoy me. I'm developing a new routine for skin care, as Simple products were on offer (3 for 2) and I know I'm not allergic to them, I couldn't resist! 



I was so torn on which of the lip butters I should get next, and despite setting out with the intention of getting a pink shade, I ended up going for a muted coral colour. 


I've heard so much about the Kate Moss lipstick range, especially about the red shades. I finally caved and decided to test this out for myself. 




I'll be reviewing a few bits and pieces over the next few weeks, but if there's anything in particular you would like me to review, just let me know! :) 

-K 
x




Sunday, 28 July 2013

Why would you wake me if you're not gonna save me?

Hi Lovelies!!

I started this wishlist off a few days ago, after spending a couple of weeks with no money and pay day on the horizon, my mind was in full blown 'I WANT TO SHOP' mode. Payday has been and gone, and so far I have been well behaved- and I really am going to try and keep it that way. These are still things that I really want, so I may treat myself to one or two things.



I feel like I'm missing out by not owning these brushes, are they really worth the hype?


I LOVE the look of this blusher, and I'm a fan of Sleek Make up. I intend to visit a Superdrug tomorrow so I really hope they have this in stock!


It's not that I struggle to find a powder that I like, to be honest I'm neither here nor there about it, but I love the look of this and I'm really struggling to find it in stores...and that makes me want it even more.


You've probably seen me rave about the lip butters, so of course I want to add this beautiful colour to the collection!


Ditto for above, I love the balm stains- I can't resist trying out another one!


I love the Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque, so the chance to try these products out would be amazing. I'm on a bit of a 'hair health' kick as I've recently gone from red/orange to a very light blonde (aiming for platinum!) My hair has coped surprisingly well with this transition, but I feel like it deserves a reward for being so strong!


I love the milk_shake products, I use the glistening serum daily and I was addicted to the leave in conditioner for a long time. I really want to test this out and see if it lives up to my expectations. 


This sounds perfect for my skin, and I definitely intend to get this. My skin generally has a couple of weeks of being well behaved, and then it throws a hormonal tantrum and there's nothing I can do to defeat it! I really hope this is the magic mask I've been searching for. 



Alongside aiming for platinum hair, I also want to have some pastel colours thrown in there at some point. I'm not sure when this will happen, but I've always been one for coloured hair and I don't think that's going to change any time soon!



This is only the hair and beauty section of my wishlist...apparently I'm feeling incredibly needy. Expect the second half soon, and a haul post is bound sure to happen! 

-K
x







Saturday, 13 July 2013

Summer Lip Products

Hi Lovelies!!

If you're from the UK, you'll know that at long last the sun has come out to play! This means that not only has the summer wardrobe finally been pulled out, so to has the summer make up. I tend to tone down my whole look for summer, wanting as little on my face as possible; still, I can't resist a bit of lipstick. I thought I'd share the lip products I've been using the most; adding a bit of vibrancy to my other wise minimal make up.



As you can see, I'm loving all things vibrant right now! 



1) Maybelline ColourSensational
Shocking Coral


There's nothing coral about this, it's definitely more of a vibrant pink. Despite the misleading name, I love it! The lasting power on this is pretty good too!

2) Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain
Honey


This is the only one out of my collection that's a little more modest in colour, but sometimes it's nice to be a little more understated. 

3) L'Oreal Paris GlamShine Stain Splash
Princess


Another pink shade here, and when applied I think it has a slight tint of orange/coral. It's super easy to apply, and as it has quite a sheer finish it's a nice way to add a hint of colour without being too bold. 

4) Revlon Lip Butter
Tutti Frutti


This has been one of my go-to lipsticks for the past few weeks, I love the coral colour and the sheer finish, I also find it to be quite moisturising which is perfect for the summer!

5) MAC Sheen Supreme
New Temptation


I'm usually a fan of matte red lipsticks, but I think that for the hot summer days it's a bit too much. This is perfect as it means I can have my red lipstick fix but with a summer twist as it's a lovely sheer application. It's super moisturising too. This is new to my make up collection but I can already see us going into a long-term relationship together. 


I hope this was useful to some of you. For lipstick fans, it's nice still to be able to wear a lip colour but with a summer twist. Although thinking about it, I am pretty excited to get back to my winter shades too! 

I'm planning on doing a post about my hair soon, I'm currently in the process of going blonde (very nearly there!) and it's hit me that there are very few colours I haven't been. Please do let me know if you'd like a thorough post about the various colours, maintenance and how to achieve the colours- would this be of any use or interest to anybody? 

-K
x




Friday, 28 June 2013

Imagine That *FOTD*

Hi Lovelies!!

I'm here today with a simple make up look! I had found myself stuck in a rut with make up, with very limited time to have fun with it (which is the whole point, right?!) However, I had a day off work and neglected all other responsibilities to have a bit of a play around.
(Please do excuse the photos, I have a new camera that I'm trying to get the hang of!) 


Products Used:

Collection Concealer (1-Fair)
MAC Studio Fix Fluid (NW10)
Collection Shimmer Shades (Way to Glow)
Dainty Doll Cream Blusher (001)
Too Faced Candlelight Glow
L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mineral Powder (Light Ivory)
Benefit High beam
Urban Decay Brow Box (Sugar)
Urban Decay Ammo Palette
Illamasqua Pure Pigment (Alluvium)
MAC Pencil Eyeliner (Black)
Benefit They're Real Mascara
Lush Bubblegum Lipscrub
Illamasqua Lipstick (Corrupt)
MAC Lipstick (Sounds like Noise)


Face


I started off by covering blemishes and red patches with the Collection concealer, blending out with a small brush. I then used a larger brush to apply my foundation and then used my fingers to make sure it was all blended evenly. 
For contouring, I used the Collection Shimmer Shades palette and simply grazed my brush over all of the shades and then blended upwards towards my cheek bones, then lightly dusted powder along my temples and jaw line. (This is supposed to make your cheek bones look more defined...whether this works or not on me, I'm not convinced!) 
To add some colour to the apples of my cheeks, I applied the Dainty Doll cream blusher with my finger tips. To lift my complexion, I used the Too Faced Candle light glow and applied this over my cheeks and slightly down my nose with a brush. 
To seal this all in, I used my trusty L'Oreal Bare Naturale face powder. 

Eyes


I always start off with my eyebrows, by the time my is covered in make up they seem to disappear and I look like a bit of an alien. At the moment, I'm using the shade 'Sugar' from the Urban Decay Brow Box. I simply use an angled brush and powder over my natural eyebrows. 
For the main look, I used 'Polyester Bridge' from the Urban Decay Ammo Palette and used this to cover my eyelids and slightly under my brow bone. I then used 'Alluvium' by Illamasqua and applied a thin line along my eyelid crease and eyelash line (about half way along) then used a blending brush to blend it outwards. To add a bit more definition, I used the MAC black eyeliner along my lash line and slightly under my water line, again blending it out to keep the look subtle. 
To finish it off, I applied a thin layer of Benefit They're Real Mascard. 

Lips


I opted for a slightly more daring look. 
I posted a tutorial on how to do gradient lips, take a look! 



And there we have it! I'm left feeling like I've made a valiant effort with my make up whilst not going too wild with it, giving myself a new everyday look!

What do we think? :)

-K
x