SKINCARE I WANT TO TRY FOR RADIANT GLOWING SKIN

Hello everyone! It has been a hot minute since i last shared any sort of skincare routine or skincare related post and there is an explanation for that, that reason being that i have actually been doing the same skincare routine/using the same products since last summer. I just found that all of the products i was using were really working well for me, that being said now i feel like it is time for much needed change. So i have taken the time out to research and discover what products i think would work well for me and my skin type, rather than just picking up anything and wasting my money...

1. revolution gold elixir | £10 | click to shop |

I have been a huge fan of facial oils for a while now and i always opt for one as a primer/base for my skin before going in with foundation, as i just find that they not only hydrate my skin but also help my foundation apply better, sit better on the skin and last for longer.

- rosehip seed oil

- ultra-nourishing to promote supple skin and even texture

- subtle gold flecks to boost radiance

- how to use: shake well before use. massage a few drops into skin, before makeup but after applying any water-based serums. use alone at night or in the morning mixed with foundation for a radiant finish or to make matte formulas dewier.

2. nuxe creme prodigieuse boost silky cream | £29.50 | click to shop |

So ever since last summer and before that i have been using a lot of products in my skincare routine by the brand Nuxe, as it is definitely a brand that i know works for me. Whilst searching for a new moisturiser i noticed that they have a new line of products, which all look amazing and definitely the type of products that would work with my skin type for hydration.

- redefine the facial contours and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles

- antioxidant-rich jasmine flower works to defend against the ageing effects

- fresher, brighter and younger-looking complexion

- how to use: apply in the morning to the face, neck and décolleté.

3. revolution hyaluronic acid over-night face mask | £8 | click to shop |

Face masks are an essential for any skincare routine, especially when you need an instant skin boost or instant hydration fix in the space of 10 minutes or so. That being said you want something that is a little more complex and i feel like this over-night mask/over-night masks in general, are perfect for doing just that.

- hydrate your skin overnight with this hyaluronic ccid infused treatment

- sweet almond oil 

- vitamin e to moisturise

- how to use: apply to cleansed skin to soak in overnight, avoiding the eye area. cleanse any residue or massage in upon waking. use 1-2 times a week.

4. lumene nordic c pure glow cleansing balm | £15.90 | click to shop |

I have been using an oil based cleanser for the past few months now, which i did enjoy using but there is just something about a cleansing balm for removing your makeup. When i have used them in the past they have really broken down the build up of makeup a lot faster than some other formulated cleansers.

- effortlessly melting onto skin

- wild arctic plant extracts and scandinavian ingredients

- vitamin c for enhanced radiance

how to use: massage gently onto wet skin. rinse well with lukewarm water or with a dampened cloth. removes impurities and makeup without leaving a greasy residue, leaving skin feeling refreshed.

5. garnier organic argan mist | £5.29 | click to shop |

I love face mists especially in the spring/summer months, more so when it is super hot or when i need to feel instantly refreshed and awake. A lot of mists can be used also on top of makeup, as well as underneath which comes in handy.

- vegan formula: no animal derived ingredients or by products inside

- argan from morocco is organically produced and ethically sourced

- hydrates and refreshes to awaken skin

- how to use: spray at min 15cm. do not intentionally inhale. apply to the skin before completing skincare routine, before or after makeup.

6. revolution pink clay detoxing mask | £8 | click to shop |

Drifting back to to face masks, sometimes the skin or different areas of the skin need a different type of tlc. That is what the beauty of different formulated masks for different needs, which a lot of skincare brands take in to consideration.

- formulated with seaweed extract

- witch hazel to help moisturise and soothe problematic areas

- draws out impurities and absorbs oil for a healthier looking complexion

- how to use: apply an even layer to clean, dry skin avoiding contact with eye area. allow to work for 10-15 minutes. rinse well with warm water. use 1-2 times a week.

7. neutrogena radiance boost hydrogel mask | £3.50 | click to shop |

Finally we have my favourite type of face mask which is the sheet mask, i always opt for these as they are easy to use, always effective and are mess-free when applying. I usually reach for the Garnier moisture bomb sheet masks, but i really want to try out some different brands especially the ones from the Neutrogena range.

- a revitalising treatment designed in korea

-  vitamin b3

- expect a soft, fresh complexion with a luminous glow

- how to use: cleanse your face before using. peel white film backing from the mask sheet and discard. place hydrogel mask down on face and leave on from 15-30 minutes. remove the mask and massage remaining product onto face and neck.

Catch up on my previous post: here

xo.

SUPERDRUG VITAMIN E SKINCARE DUO | REVIEW

Hello everyone! So for a while now i have been meaning to pick up/try out some Vitamin E formula skincare, as i have heard some really good things especially for people with normal/dry skin and skin that needs all the help in the hydration department (which i do). That being said i finally got around to picking up some new skincare bits, as i was looking to switch out/up a couple of products in my routine and i had heard good things about the Superdrug own brand Vitamin E collection...

vitamin e moisture boost facial serum

If you have been reading my posts for a while then you will know that i had been using the NUXE dry facial oil religiously both morning and night as i am so in love with it, that being said since picking this up i have been using this in the morning before applying my makeup for a specific reason. A lot of serum's can be more of a liquid consistency designed to be used as a further skincare step but i feel like this one is a little thicker than your regular serum, if i am being completely honest i don't think this is a life changer but what i will say is it does make for a great base for foundation in more of a primer role.

shop the vitamin e moisture boost facial serum on superdrug - here

vitamin e spf 15 radiance moisture cream

Ok so next up is the moisturiser, which i have a completely different opinion about and in a good way. I actually really like this moisturiser and for me it is hard for me to say that i really like one, as i am kind of fussy. What really sold me to pick up this moisturiser from the Vitamin E range also, was not only because it claims to be radiance infused and moisturising but because it contains SPF. Protecting your skin from the sun is so important and any step to can take to prevent causing any damage is a must, not only damage but also from signs of ageing. As i mentioned i need all the help i can get when it comes to hydration and i find that this does just that, it has a lightweight texture that soaks into the skin quickly and effortlessly. Out of the two products i would definitely pick up the moisturiser again but probably not the serum in a hurry, this moisturiser is a bargain at just £2.99.

shop the vitamin e radiance moisture cream on superdrug - here

Catch up on my previous post HERE...

xo.

FIFTEEN FOODS/OILS FOR HEALTHY SKIN + HAIR

Hello everyone! There are so many great different skin/hair products available that you can spend a lot of money on to help your skin and hair look/stay healthy looking, when it doesn't always have to be that way. Of course i am not saying ditch all of your products, but there are actually so many foods/oils you can be eating/using that are naturally good for your skin, hair and even nails. With that in mind for today's post, i thought i would share with you twenty of my favourite foods/oils which are great for achieving glowing skin and hair naturally...

1. oats

Oats are a filled with a great source of vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants and great for repairing any breakage to your hair. Oats also have a lot of health benefits to, such as aiding weight loss, lowering blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

2. walnuts

Walnuts are filled with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which helps keep in moisture, giving your hair that healthy looking shine. The protein helps boost the follicles of the hair allowing your hair to look fuller and stronger. Walnuts are also a great source of brain food and also just like oats are said to help with weight loss.

3. spinach

Spinach is not only a great source of iron to give your strength, it is also a great natural anti-ageing as it is packed full of vitamin A. Spinach is also another great food for helping with the skins moisture.

4. red peppers

A fun fact (something i didn't know until recently) that red peppers actually contain more vitamin C than oranges do, who would of thought that? Vitamin C is a great antioxidant, aiding your skin to look more radiant and glowing.

5. kale

Just like spinach, kale is also the perfect anti-ageing/wrinkle reducing food but fun fact, kale is actually filled with more antioxidants than most greens. Kale is most definitely a win-win vegetable, as it has so many health benefits for both the inside and outside of your body. I also think it tastes delicious.

6. pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds not only taste delicious, they are also packed full of zinc for helping with your skins natural oils which help to protect and repair your skin. It is also said that pumpkin seeds can aid the natural growth process in your hair, as well as fighting against acne and boost your immune system.

7. lentils

Lentils are a great source of getting protein and iron into your system, especially if you aren't a meat eater. By eating lentils you can also boost the thickness and fullness in your hair, as well as being packed full of vitamins perfect for aiding with producing collagen in the skin.

8. coconut oil

Coconut is not only the perfect ingredient for adding/keeping moisture in your hair and skin, it is also a natural antibacterial. Coconut oil can be used for so many different things from dry ends of your hair, dry hands, a natural cleanser to break down makeup and you can even use it to shave your legs with.

9. macadamia oil

Macadamia oil just like coconut oil is a great way to keep your skin/hair looking and feeling moisturised, but it is also said that macadamia oil is also a great natural ingredient proved to help sooth and reduce inflammation.

10. jasmine oil

Jasmine oil can be used in so many different ways, either as a calming remedy or to give an instant shot of moisture to dehydrated skin. Jasmine oil is also proven to help fade any scars/imperfections to the skin such as stretch marks and acne scars.

11. garlic

Garlic is apparently one of natures best medicines, to help keep cholesterol and blood pressure low as well has helping with preventing brain diseases. That being said for the beauty side of things, garlic has been proven to help prevent breakouts and maintain clearer looking skin. 

12. eggs

Which ever way you prefer to eat your eggs, you are going to be helping your hair, skin and nails out tremendously. The nutrients that is jam packed into one small egg, is going to help not only reduce the size of pores, it is going to tighten the skin, add shine to your hair and strength to your nails.    

13. berries

Berries are a strong antioxidant and are jam packed with vitamin C, by eating berries they are not only going to help hydrate your skin/hair, they are also going to give you a healthy glow, boost collagen and they are also a natural anti-inflammatory.

14. tea

Tea is not only one of those things that taste good, it is also giving your skin a helping hand at the same time. Green, black and red teas are not only like berries rich in antioxidants and anti-ageing, they are also a great way of helping you to get a clear your complexion. By drinking tea it is also said to help reduce puffy eyes, dark circles and help prevent blackheads.

15. dark chocolate

Last but not least probably one of the most surprising foods, as usually anything containing dairy is said to be bad for your skin. Although it is said by just having a small amount of dark chocolate can help your skin fight against sun damage, anti-ageing and skin discoloration. Chocolate also releases brain endorphins making you feel happy, so naturally when you feel happy you'll look good.

Catch up on my previous post HERE...

xo.

BEAUTY FAVOURITES: JANUARY

Hello everyone! First of all can you honestly believe that today is the last day of January already? Even though this month is always seems to be the most depressing, i have still had a pretty great January for a change. Getting to the point seeing as tomorrow is the first day of a new month, i thought there would be no better way to end the current month by talking about my beauty favourites from the month of January.

mua luxe light lustre liquid highlight

Over the past year or so i have grew to become the biggest fan of liquid highlighters, as they can be used in so many different ways. You can apply them to the face as a base, add a drop or two into your foundation or simply apply a small amount to the highest points of the face and blend out with your finger or a beauty blender. Earlier in the month i did a full first impressions/review post on the newest MUA launch in their luxe range, this product might sound like a mouthful once said out loud but it is one that is a must-try and did i mention for such a stunning product it will only set you back £5? (currently on offer at Superdrug for £4). My go-to/favourite shade is the shade marvel, which is a really beautiful bronze-ish almost rose-golden shade. 

mario badescu drying lotion

This is a product that i have been using religiously when needed since just before Christmas, yet it is something i am yet to mention in a post until now. Back in December i had found my skin breaking out a little more than the odd one and i think it was down to all the festive food during that month. When i get a breakout it tends to stick around for longer than it is welcome, which is beyond annoying and it was time i did something about it. After hearing so many great reviews about this specific drying lotion by Mario Badescu, i finally decided to give it a whirl and i can now see what all the fuss is about as it is so effective and works quickly. All you do is first of don't be tempted to shake the bottle, dip a cotton bud into the solution then apply the to breakout and leave it over night to work its magic. The only down-side to this product is it absolutely stinks of a quite strong chemically smell, but you can't smell it for long and it does dry fairly fast.

l'Oréal elvive dream lengths no haircut cream

Unlike the drying lotion, this is actually a product that i have already mentioned a couple of times in two separate posts. This is something i have really been enjoying using on my hair whenever i wash it and i also noticed an instant result from after the first use, as my hair looked more healthy, shiny and reduced the appearance of any breakages i had. I also love how this is such a quick and easy product to use, as you don't have to wash it out unlike a lot of hair treatments. I highly recommend this to anyone who has long hair, as i do!  

rimmel 60 seconds nail polish in the shade lets get nude

Finally a nail polish that i have been wearing on my nails repeatedly this month and one that i talked about in a nail polishes i couldn't be without post. These nail polishes from Rimmel are perfect if you are feeling lazy or don't have time to wait for them to dry, as they dry in 60 seconds and come in this super shine finish which leaves you with that salon gel nail finish. The shade lets get nude is the post beautiful light pale-creamy beige nude colour, which is perfect for me as 95% of the time i always opt for a nude nail colour and i never get bored of this one. A similar alternative to this nail polish is essie's spin the bottle, which is my most worn nail polish.

Have a lovely weekend...

xo.

BEAUTY HACKS I SWEAR BY | PART ONE: MAKEUP + SKIN

Hello everyone! Through-out the years we have all discovered a hack or two that comes in handy and we have also learnt the hard way, that some don't work as well if not at all. That being said, after trying so many different hacks/tricks myself, i have found the ones that work well for me personally and i swear by using them on an everyday basis because they actually can make a huge difference. So for today's post i thought i would share part one to a little "beauty hacks i swear by" series, kicking things off with makeup and skin...

1. LINE UPPER LASH LINE TO MAKE LASHES APPEAR THICKER

If you are having one of those days where you either can't be bothered, don't have the time or don't want to wear false lashes but you still want your lashes to stand out. You can still achieve this quick and easily by simply applying some eyeliner or eyeshadow with an angled brush close to your upper lash line, it not only makes the lashes appear thicker but also makes your eyes pop more.

2. USE POWDER FOR A FAUX LASH EFFECT
Another great tip for creating that false lash look without actually wearing falsies, is to firstly curl your lashes before applying one coat of mascara. Next you are going to want to apply some translucent powder to your lashes before going in with another coat of mascara, by doing this is creates  thicker, fuller and longer looking lashes. I don't know how but i just know that this works so well!

3. DO YOUR EYESHADOW BEFORE YOUR CONCEALER

I have always done my makeup in a specific order, i like to do my foundation first before i do my eyeshadow, rather than going straight in with concealer and finishing my base before moving onto my eyes. By doing this you have created an even base but you can still go in with concealer to fix any mistakes or fall-out that might of occurred, as you haven't placed any powder yet on your face and therefore your makeup won't appear cake-y from placing a liquid on-top of a powder.

4. USE BRONZER FOR A QUICK EYESHADOW LOOK
Talking of eyeshadow a great alternative to applying eyeshadow, especially if you want a quick and easy eye look is to use your bronzer what you plan on using as part of your base makeup. I do this all the time, even more so if i am travelling that way you don't have to pack a ton of products. I always tend to take a bronze, blush and highlighter palette, this way everything is in one place and a lot more compact.

5. HOW TO GET GLOWING SKIN
Towards the end of last year i posted a similar type of post in the form of a beauty tricks that actually make a difference and in that post i touched on how to fake glowing skin. Through out the years we have probably all needed a helping hand with this now and again, me included and liquid highlighters, facial oils and strobe creams will definitely be your best friends. That being said you can also achieve glowing skin naturally, by following a few easy steps that i swear has helped for me. First of all make sure you are drinking 2+ litres of water a day, if you aren't a huge fan of plain water switch things up and add a little non sugar squash to the water. Next of all getting vitamins into your system is key, whether that be in tablet form, from fruits and vegetables. You could even kill two birds with one stone by getting your water intake and vitamins in one, in the form of a berocca which is full of b vitamins and folic acid.

6. CREATE A THERMAL FACE MASK IN SECONDS

Always heard that the benefits for your skin from a thermal face mask are amazing? but don't have a thermal designed mask in your collection or price range. You can create your own in seconds with one you already have, simply place the amount of product you would normally use into a microwave proof bowl and heat for 20-30 seconds making sure it doesn't over-heat or dry-out. Apply the now thermal face mask with an old yet clean foundation brush, sit back/relax and feel like you have taken a trip to the spa from home. 

Catch up on my previous blog post HERE...

xo.

2017 BEAUTY FAVOURITES

Hello everyone! This past year i have tried so many different products, some i have loved and some i have not loved so much, with that in mind and now that we are into a new year i thought it would be the perfect time to share a selection of my favourite beauty products from the whole of 2017.

mac pro longwear lip pencil in the shade oh honey!

I have used this lip liner so much ever since i first picked it up earlier in the year, so much so it is pretty much a tiny stump now ha ha. It is one of those nude lip liners that will go with pretty much any other nude that you pair it with. I also love this pro longwear formula even more than the original formula, as it is so much more creamy in texture and obviously lasts longer on the lips.

bareMinerals gen nude buttercream lip gloss in the shade far out

Just like the lip liner this is pretty much my most used lip gloss for the same reason as the lip liner, as it is one of those toppers that goes with any nude. These gen nude lip glosses from bareMinerals come in such a wide range of different nudes but this one by far is my favourite, as it is the most perfect pink/beige nude with golden shimmer through-out it.

dose of colors bake browns eyeshadow palette

When it comes down to eyeshadows and palettes i always opt for the warm neutral brown-ish shades, which won't come as a shock (just like a nude lip it is my thing/go-to) and out of all the eyeshadows and palettes i have bought and used this year, this palette by far is my favourite. I use two particular shades on a daily basis (deserted and outdoorsy), i even did a full first impression and review post all about this palette which you can catch up on here if you haven't done so already.

nuxe huile prodigieuse multi-usage dry oil

This particular product from NUXE has been one of those that i have wanted to try for the longest time, but never got around to and then a few months a go i finally did. Ever since then i have never looked back, in fact it has ended up being my favourite skincare product from the whole year. This particular oil is another product that i have a full first impressions/review post on, which you can catch up on here.

zoeva the basic moment blush palette

I have mentioned these little travel friendly blush palettes by Zoeva on so many occasions, as they are some of my favourite palettes and this particular one is my new favourite from 2017. The bronzer/contour shade is the perfect tone as it is not too cool or too warm, the blush is a subtle light pink shade but the show stopper of the palette is the fine-milled golden shimmery highlighter and is one i reach for on a regular basis.

bareMinerals invisible bronze medium bronzing powder 

Sticking with the something i reach for on a regular basis, in fact i think i have used this bronzer every day since i finally got my hands on one. I had wanted the medium shade for so long and it was always out of stock, but it was well worth the wait and doesn't disappoint. The bronzer applies flawlessly and lasts all day long. 

barry m liquid chrome highlighter

2017 for me was the year that i really got into trying/using liquid highlighters, as before then i was too scared (along side liquid or cream bronzers). That being said ever since getting over that initial fear, i became obsessed and out of all of the ones i have tried this one from barryM has to be my favourite and you can find out why in my full review/first impression post here.

Happy New Year Everyone!

xo.

KEEPING THINGS SIMPLE: CURRENT SKINCARE ROUTINE

Hello everyone! So it has been a good few months (April to be precise) since i last did any form of skincare routine post and since then, i have switched up a fair few products in my daily routine. Now that we are into the autumn/winter months our skin needs just as much TLC, as it would during the summer months if not more sometimes. As the weather is obviously colder, the coolness tends to dry out our skin a lot quicker than it would when the weather is warmer. That being said seeing as my skin type is normal/dry, i need all the help i can get when it comes to keeping my skin looking and feeling hydrated.

nivea daily essentials 3-in-1 deep cleansing exfoliating wipes

Kicking things off with how i start by removing my makeup and that is with these face wipes by Nivea, which have been favourites of mine for so long now and i don't reach for any other face wipes now as nothing compares to them for me. Even though they are exfoliating wipes they aren't harsh in the slightest on the skin, i simply like to take one of these to remove as much surface makeup as i can before going in with my cleanser.

simple water boost micellar facial gel wash

So i have been using this particular face wash for a few weeks now and i am really enjoying reaching for so far, because it honestly just ticks all of the boxes for what my skin needs at this time of year. I love how gentle, yet effective this face wash is and removes every single bit of makeup from your face, as well as leaving it feeling super soft/hydrated. I have never really reached for all that many Simple products ever, but after giving this a try i am intrigued to try more from this particular "water boost micellar" range.

t-zone charcoal & bamboo nose pore strips

I first mentioned these nose pore strips in my five october favourites from superdrug under £5 post and how effective i have found them to be, for unblocking my pores/getting rid of any blackheads on my nose. Strips like these are really great just to pop one on once a week, to remove any build up which is mainly caused from wearing makeup every single day like i pretty much do.

kiehl's rare earth deep pore cleansing masque 

This particular face mask was recommended to me by my sister, as it is really great for eliminating impurities (aka blemishes) and helps draw out any oil build up from the problem areas. I really love "clay" type face masks, as i find they work well for my skin and even though it is more of a dry texture face mask, it doesn't dry out my skin in the slightest. I will usually only use this face mask either once or twice a week.

garnier moisture bomb tissue mask

So this particular sheet mask has been a favourite of mine ever since they launched and i usually always have a handful of them in-stock, for when i might need one. The reason for that is because this particular sheet mask is amazing for that instant boost of hydration, that your skin might be lacking and you can literally go from dry skin to hydrated skin in 10-15 minutes. As this is a sheet mask as well there is no washing off needed to be done, all that you simply do is remove the sheet from your face and massage in the remanding product.

the ordinary salicylic acid 2% solution

I have tried out so many different skincare products from The Ordinary brand by Deciem, but i have honestly never tried one as effective as this particular solution is. If i have a huge/angry visitor on my face, all i will do is apply a small amount of this solution to the problem area, right before going to bed and in the morning it will have reduced the size of the blemish/problem area. I also still can't believe how affordable yet effective these products are, especially because the majority of them are under £5 each. 

manuka doctor apirefine targeted wrinkle filler

This product is one that i was using during my previous skincare routine post and still continues to be my eye cream of choice now. I love how ever since using this wrinkle filler, the lines under my eyes appear smaller, as well as keeping the under-eye super hydrated. As this particular product contains bee venom, it really helps to keep the skin feeling/looking firmer as well as hydrated. 

nuxe huile prodiguese multi-usage dry oil

Last of all we have the final step, which is "moisture" and rather than using a cream formulated moisturiser, i have been simply using this oil by NUXE and is one that i have raved about for months now. I have been obsessed with using facial oils this year, as i find them so much more hydrating/effective for my skin than a regular moisturiser would. I actually did a full first impression/review post, talking all about the multi-usage dry oil which you can catch up on here if you want to know more about the product.

Check out my affordable dupes for high end skincare products post HERE...

xo.

AFFORDABLE DUPES FOR HIGH-END SKINCARE

Hello everyone! Through out the years i have discovered so many different affordable dupes for higher end products, along side a few finds discovered by others and i have posted a ton of different dupes from makeup, haircare and skincare. With that in mind, i thought this would be the perfect time to do an updated version of some affordable dupes for high end skincare that i have discovered recently/have yet to share.

1. first aid beauty facial radiance pads vs. nip + fab glycolic fix daily cleansing pads

Facial pads are such a great product to reach for after cleansing, not just to help make sure all your makeup is removed but also to help brighten the skin and give it a natural radiance. These two particular pads from two different brands are probably the most popular of their kind, which is ironic because they are the perfect dupe of each other and the only difference between the two in my opinion is the price. The first aid beauty pads retail at £24 for 60 pads and the nip+fab pads retail at £12.95 for 60 pads, so that is a price difference of £11.05.

2. bioderma sensibio h20 micelle solution vs. garnier micellar cleansing water

These two products are a well talked about dupes for each other and is an oldie but a goodie, as the two products have been well loved by many for years now in the beauty community. Using micellar water is a great way of removing any stubborn makeup such as eyeliner, waterproof mascara and long-wearing lip products. I have personally gone through so many bottles of the garnier version, yet i only purchased the bioderma one once as i honestly see no difference. The bioderma solution retails at £19.10 for 500ml and the garnier cleansing water retails at £3.29 for 400ml, so that is a price difference of £15.81.

3. peter thomas roth water drench cream vs. garnier moisture bomb cream

I actually mentioned this particular moisturiser by peter thomas roth in a pre-fall wishlist post last month and a lovely lady sent me a message saying she had tried this moisturiser and the garnier moisture bomb cream was an exact dupe, because it has all the same hydrating benefits and texture. That being said i definitely think i am going to save the pennies and opt for the moisture bomb cream, as i know i will love it because the moisture bomb sheet masks are a favourite of mine. The peter thomas roth water drench cream retails at £42 for 48ml and the garnier moisture bomb cream retails at £7.99 for 100g, so that is a price difference of £34.01.

4. john masters 100% argan oil vs. the ordinary 100% moroccan oil 

One of my go-to skincare/bodycare products is argan oil, as it has so many amazing benefits especially when it comes to brightening and hydrating the skin. That being said over the years i have tried so many different versions from different brands, some high-end some affordable and the two that are complete dupes for each other as they are both just pure argan oil (no other ingredients) are the one by john masters which retails at £32.50 and the one by the ordinary which retails at just £6. The fact that one company can over charge so much for something that is 100% the same product, always blows my mind and is something that deciem took into consideration. The price difference between the two oils is £26.50.

5. glamglow youthmud exfoliating mask vs. lacura exfoliating mud mask

Finally we have another affordable dupe that has been discussed widely across the beauty community recently and it is actually a face mask you can pick up from aldi, yes you heard right aldi. Personally i didn't even know aldi sold beauty products but apparently they do, which definitely makes me want to get my hands on this mask asap as i have tried the glamglow youthmud mask and loved it, so if i can save myself some serious money i am down for that. Even though i am yet to try the affordable dupe, i think from other peoples recommendations it is worth the dupe title and i can't wait to give it ago for myself. The glamglow youthmud retails at £42 for 50g and the lacura exfoliating mud mask retails at just £6 for 50g, so that makes the price difference £36.

previous similar affordable dupe posts:
my favourite affordable dupes for highend products #1
my favourite affordable dupes for highend products #2
drugstore skincare alternatives #1 cleanse
drugstore skincare alternatives #2 exfoliate & moisturise

xo.

CURRENT GO-TO EVERYDAY BASE MAKEUP

Hello everyone! Seeing as it has been a couple of months since i last shared an "everyday go-to makeup" post, i thought i was about time i gave you all a little update and talk about my current go-to base. Now that we are officially in autumn i have been loving that really naturally glow-y skin look created with the following products, paired with a warm matte brown eye and warm deeper nude lip look.

nuxe huile prodigieuse multi-usage dry oil

So the key to a great base makeup look, doesn't always start with the makeup, it actually starts with skin prep and i have been obsessed with applying some of this dry oil to my face/neck before going in with my rimmel #insta fix & go 2-in-1 primer and setting spray. By applying this oil it really locks in moisture and keeps the skin super hydrated, which is super important if you have normal/dry skin like i do. I actually did a full review post talking all about this particular oil, which you can catch here.

maybelline fit me matte and poreless foundation in the shade 220 natural beige

primark ps pro radiance drops

Moving on-to the foundation that i am literally obsessed with at the moment, which will come to no surprise if you have read quite a few of my previous posts. The fit me foundation from Maybelline is probably my all time favourite foundation, which never lets me down, it lasts all day long, has amazing coverage, is light-weight and it comes in so many different shades, i even own several all depending on how tanned or not tanned i am that day but it will usually be either shade 220 or 128. I also like to add that naturally radiance back into the skin by mixing in a small amount of the ps pro radiance drops, which i featured in a testing primark beauty post.

morphe concealer in the shade oats

Next up is concealer and to go along side a favourite foundation of mine, i usually use the matching concealer which is probably my favourite concealer ever. However i recently ran out and me being me, i have misplaced where i have put the multiple back-ups of the concealer and foundation so i have been forced to reach for something else. I really like this concealer by Morphe as this shade called oats is super brightening, as it has that slight yellow undertone to it. The only drawback is for the under eyes i can be slightly drying on me, but what i have been doing is adding a little hydrating oil to the concealer before blending out. 

rimmel #insta duo contour stick in the shade medium

The one thing i have always been scared about going in with a cream contour product, is that it would look muddy and be hard to blend out but that being said i have finally found a product that is neither of those things. At first i thought how similar they looked to the KKW sticks, as they are dual ended also. The shade i use is medium, which is perfect for me as it isn't too much of a warm shade or too much of a cool toned shade it is the perfect in-between. The actually formula of this stick is super creamy, easy to blend whether you are using a brush or a damp beauty blender. I like to apply mine to not only sculpt the cheeks, but the forehead, jawline and nose.

makeup revolution liquid highlighter in the shade luminous gold

So if you have read the majority of my posts recently, then you will probably know how much i am loving this liquid highlighters recently and the reason for that being is they give you the most natural looking healthy glow, rather than being too much of a glitter-y highlighter. My favourite way to apply this is dot onto the areas i want the product to go, like the highest points of my face, tip of my nose and cupids bow before blending out with a damp beauty blender and before i set anything into place with powders.

maybelline fit me matte and poreless powder in the shade translucent

Talking of powders the first "powder-like" product i always go in with is a setting powder and this particular one is a favourite of mine at the moment, also shock horror another fit me product but i just find they all work so well together. As i have normal to dry skin in the cooler months i can get away with just powdering the places i have put concealer, so under my eyes, the centre of my forehead, nose and chin.

makeup revolution skin kiss highlighter in the shade golden kiss

Something i tend to switch up more often and i never stick to the same one all of the time, is highlighter but that being said, i have been reaching for this one a lot recently. The reason for that is i just find it complements the liquid highlighter shade i went in with before, as well as the eye/lip look i have been going for everyday and i mentioned this in a recent budget beauty week: full coverage glow-y base for under £50 post. I will also simply just apply highlighter to the exact same places as i did the liquid version, just to set everything into place and add a further glow/radiance to the skin.

bareMinerals invisible bronze bronzer in the shade medium

Finally to finish the skin off we have bronzer, as i have been skipping on the blush recently. The beauty of bronzer is it really brings warmth and shape back into the face, as well as setting the areas i applied the cream contour. This particular bronzer has been pretty much my go-to ever since i finally got my hands on one, it is literally so flawless looking once applied to the skin and it also lasts all day long without fading like some bronzers can do. Then to finish off all i will do is apply some of my #insta fix & go to set all of the makeup in place, to make it last all day long and keep it looking freshly applied.

Catch up on my previous post HERE...

xo.

THE MULTI-PURPOSE OIL I CAN'T PUT DOWN

Hello everyone! A while back i shared with you a current beauty wishlist: skincare edition post and in that post, i mentioned how i wanted to try out a specific dry oil. The oil i am of course talking about is the ever so famous Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Use Dry Oil by NUXE, which comes in two different formulations the original and a golden shimmer version but the formula i decided to go with is the original.

As i mentioned above this is a multi-usage dry formulated oil, that can be used for the face, body and hair. I have mentioned on many occasions now how much i have really become obsessed with using facial oils (this year mainly), as i just find it is the best product to really hydrate/keep my skin hydrated. That being said so far i have tried so many different oils, some good, some bad but this oil is a game changer for me. Huile Prodigieuse is a dry oil with a unique combination of six different plant oils, including borage, st johnswort, sweet almond, camellia, hazelnut and macadamia to help nourish, repair and soften skin in one use. This product is available in two different sizes in both formula's, 50ML (£17) and 100ML (£29).

I honestly do not have a bad thing to say about this oil, except for maybe the fact it isn't the most travel friendly bottle but i can live with that. I love how much of a luxurious feel this product has, from it's perfume-like packaging, how amazing of a scent it has and not to mention how beautifully makeup sits and leaves your skin feeling once applied. As this product is a dry formulated oil, it sinks into the skin quickly/effortlessly and doesn't leave your face with that "grease" like feeling. Another amazing thing about this product is how you can justify spending a little bit more on it, as a little bit goes a long way and even more if you only use it for one particular thing (like i only use it on my face). This is the only product i have tried from NUXE but i definitely want to try out more from the brand, if you didn't know NUXE is a french natural cosmetics company popular in pharmacy's across the county and has won many award for the first multi-purpose oil titled "prodigieuse".

BEDSIDE BEAUTY: CURRENT GO-TO PRODUCTS

Hello everyone! So i don't know about you but i always like to keep a selection of beauty products on my bedside table, for two reasons. One you can use these skincare/bodycare products whilst sat or laid in bed watching your favourite tv show or movie and two because they are mainly products that are best applied right before lights-out. Some of these products are always the same and some i like to switch up from time to time, with that in mind i thought for today's post, why not share with you all my current go-to bedside beauty products.

lush cosmetics sleepy body lotion

I usually always use the Palmer's Coconut Oil Body Lotion, which i still do from time to time but for the past month or so i have been re-reaching for this Sleepy Body Lotion from Lush instead. Sleepy was originally just part of the Christmas line last year (which is when i first tried it) and obviously since then they have made it permanent. This body lotion is perfect in every single way for bedtime, as it will put you out in a light, help free any built up anxiety with the help of its lavender oil infusion.

the ordinary salicylic acid 2% solution

I have talked about a selection of products by Deciem (The Ordinary) in quite a few posts this year, as it has been a skincare brand i have been reaching for a lot. This particular product has replaced another product i was using for the same purpose, as i now prefer to just apply a small amount of something more effective to the problem area (aka a blemish). If i don't think a blemish is all that bad or it is almost healed i will sometimes reach for a little amount of ever so trusty Sudocrem.  

doctor manuka replenishing facial oil or 

the ordinary 100% organic cold-pressed moroccan argan oil

Again like i said above i sometimes switch between two different products and because i do have more normal/dry skin, i do love nothing better than to basically smother my face in facial oil before bed and then it keeps the dryness at bay. These two particular products are favourites of mine, both are some hydrating, brightening but that being said The Ordinary one is a great multi-purpose products as it can be applied to the ends of the hair also. As well as these facial oils being bedtime favourites, i am also obsessed with they way they prep your skin for makeup in the morning time, either underneath or mixed into your foundation.

the body shop coconut lip butter

Finally we have one of the products that i can never go to bed without applying and that is lip balm, i also never use any other kind now except for the Coconut Lip Butter from The Body Shop. This lip balm is just so effective, as it instantly hydrates your lips keeping them hydrated for longer and chap-free. Also if i am feeling as if my lips are that extra bit dry and in need of some TLC, i will apply a mixture of the Lip Scrub by Lush and this.

♥

FAVOURITES FROM THE WEEK

Hello everyone! So a while back now rather than doing a monthly favourites post, i shared my favourites from the week and seeing as yet again i didn't do the traditional favourites from the month post, i thought why not do another favourites from the week style post. Some of these products were new to me last week and some have been favourites for longer than a week, but that being said i still can't stop reaching for them all week long.

 l'oréal paris hydra genius aloe water for normal/dry skin

So L'Oréal recently launched some new skincare pieces in the UK, this product being one of them and i was super intrigued to give it a go as soon as i saw it. I believe the concept of this product is suppose to be "duped" to the Lancome Engergie de Vie, as it is also a super liquid-like moisturiser. I fell in love with this product from the first use, as it is super hydrating/fresh on the skin yet still super lightweight feeling. This product comes out almost like a water texture and a tiny bit goes a long way, i find that one small pump is more than enough to cover the whole face/neck area and i have been applying this both morning and night. 

 barryM mist and fix dewy makeup setting spray

This is a product i have been using for a few weeks now, as i have actually been trying out one or two different setting sprays and in all honesty this one is my absolute favourite out of them all. I have really found myself getting into using them on an everyday basis now, especially now the weather is warming up and we need that face to stay on all day long without slipping around. As i am all about that glow/dewy finish that is the formula finish i went for, but this product also comes in a matte version and a primer water, which i am also intrigued to give a go as primer waters have also been something i have been loving for a little while now. 

soap & glory clean on me mini shower gel

I have used this particular shower gel on and off for years now and is probably my favourite soap and glory product, which i mentioned in a five shower gels you need in your shower for under £5 post a couple of months ago. That being said i picked one of the mini travel sizes up again for when i was travelling and now i can't stop reaching for it, so i am thinking i will be purchasing the full size of it again pretty soon.

barryM gelly hi shine nail paint in the shade peanut butter

I actually mentioned this particular nail polish in a post last week, as it has probably over taken all my other favourite nude polishes for first place prize (yes over barrym's winning streak and essie's spin the bottle). This shade peanut butter has been on both my finger and toe nails over and over again for about a month now, i just can't get enough of it. It is the most beautiful almost caramel/peach-y toned nude and has the classic hi shine gel finish to it, i love this particular formula as it lasts on my nails for so long without chipping. 

 topshop glow pot highlighter in the shade gleam

I have not been able to stop reaching for this product all week, in fact since the weekend when i finally picked one up. I have seen so many people use/rave about this cream highlighter pot from Topshop for a while now and seeing as i have been into using more cream style products recently, i thought i need to give this ago and oh my oh my it is stunning. I picked up the shade gleam which is a gorgeous golden/slightly rose golden cream highlighter, which is super pigmented yet easy to blend and leaves you glowing to the gods.

♥

SKINCARE ROUTINE: SIMPLIFIED

Hello everyone! It has only been a month or so since i last shared my current skincare routine, but i thought i would give you an update as my skin decided to have a little freak breakout session for some reason. So straight away i switched up some of the products i was using and my skin cleared up within a week. The main trick for keeping my skin clear that i have learned is to keep things simple, a case of illuminating what isn't an essential item.

nivea daily essentials 3 in 1 deep cleansing exfoliating wipes

Kicking things off with the cleansing stage, which i always start off by removing as much makeup as possible with these face wipes from nivea. I have mentioned these wipes so many times (including my recent skincare routine post) as they are my absolute favourites and i don't use any other kind. Even though they are exfoliating wipes they aren't harsh on your skin in the slightest and they have two sides to them, one with the exfoliating bumps on and the other side which is just smooth.

manuka doctor apinourish hydrating facial cleanser

I think the biggest difference to my skin that changed was when i first started to use this cleanser, which i mentioned in a four skincare products i can't put down post. That being said when i was all out of this cleanser, i decided to give a couple of other cleansers a try and i think because i stopped using the manuka doctor cleanser is what caused my skin to freak out...maybe?

burt's bees facial cleansing oil with coconut and argan oils

I have been reaching for this particular sample sized cleanser from burt's bees, which i got in one of my feel unique sample service boxes and i have really been enjoying using it on those more makeup days, as it literally melts every single piece of makeup off. Also a little of these product goes a long way but once i am out with the sample, i definitely think i will be buying the full size.

the ordinary niacinamide 10% + zinc 1%

So once my skin is completely makeup free/cleansed, i will go in with the two of my current go-to treatments. First up is the blemish solution from the ordinary, which i did a full review post on here. I used to use it along side the vitamin c moisturiser but i stopped to keep things simple and not aggravate my skin too much, since i have just been using this alone i have actually noticed better results.

manuka doctor replenishing facial oil
Next up you shouldn't be shocked to see the manuka doctor facial oil in the mix, as i can't go a day without using it. I was using the same brightening formula for skincare and mixed into my foundation, but now i am using the replenishing oil at night and the brightening oil with my foundation. These oils are such a handy way to help keep my skin super hydrated, which i mentioned in my products i swear by for dry skin post last week.

manuka doctor apirefine targeted wrinkle filler

Finally we move onto the moisturising stage of my skincare routine, which at night time i will do right before going to bed rather so the treatments i applied earlier have time to sink in. I have been using this manuka doctor targeted wrinkle filler for around four months now as an eye cream and i have found it just works well for me, keeping my under-eye area hydrated and crease free.

mac cosmetics studio moisture cream

Yet another product that i have been using for months and months now, as it just works so well for me. This is such a hydrating/rich moisturiser yet it is lightweight, perfect for applying underneath your makeup as it sinks in super quick locking all the moisture in which i have mentioned on several occasions now.

bareMinerals skinlongevity vital power infusion

Last of all we have this sample from another one of my feel unique sample service posts, i have really been loving bareMinerals products recently so i was really intrigued to give this sample a try. This is more of a serum consistency product designed to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hydrate the skin. I have been using this on and off, as the sample is quite a decent size and so far i am really enjoying how nice the product feels, i just don't know whether i would want to splash £45 on a full size of it yet?

♥