March Glossybox - The Harrods Edition

Last month I posted that Glossybox had included a card advertising a mystery box for this month.  You had to go on to their site and use the letters they gave you as a clue to work out what the box was.  I had mentioned that I thought the box might be designer - well I was wrong as the box was in fact Harrods. 

If you are unfamiliar to Glossybox, then you can look at my previous January and February posts for more information or click here to be taken to the Glossybox website.

Rather than the usual dusty pink box, this months box was white with The Harrods Edition written on the front.  You were also given an Age-Defying Skincare brochure which gives advice on how to care for your skin depending on your age.

As usual, inside the box you have a card that gives the details of all the products included.  However this time they do not tell you how much the full size would cost and how much product you get.  This is a little annoying but I guess it is a great marketing ploy as it forces you to go on to their website to find out.  The card also includes a discount code of 20% of selected beauty products at Harrods.com
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The packaging inside also continued the Harrods theme by including a green ribbon with gold lettering and a Harrods sticker to seal the paper.

Inside, on first glance I was genuinely quite excited about the products.  Although I was a little disappointed to see that there wasn't any full sized products (usually you get at least one).

1. Ojon - Damage Reverse Instant Restorative Hair Serum £16 / 25ml: 



This is described as being a weightless, highly concentrated serum which helps to restore brilliant shine and softness to dull, damaged hair. You warm one to two drops in the palms of your hands and apply to either damp or dry hair concentrating on the ends. It can be used daily before heat styling or as a finishing touch. I haven't yet tried this on my hair but this is the product that I was most excited about as I have very long/coloured hair and I like to use either a hair oil or serum on the end to protect them. I have a few to use up but once I have tried this I will let you know.

 2. Fendi - Fan Di Fendi Eau de Toilette £35 / 30ml:

I am always disappointed when I receive a perfume sample, firstly because I think perfume is a very personal choice and I love my Chanel and Dior perfumes and very rarely stray from them.  Secondly, because often you can get free perfume samples from counters.  This sample however was nicer than previous ones as it came in a beautiful miniature version of the full size.  The only downfall for me is that the lid is the stopper and I am always frightened of spilling perfumes like this (I once knocked over and spilt a whole bottle of Eternity by Calvin Klein when I was younger - very frustrating).  I much prefer a spray bottle as it's easier to apply and carry around in your bag. 
The perfume is described as a luminous floral fragrance, radiant with sunlight and leaving a lasting impression of light Roman leather on the skin.  I haven't yet tried it on my skin, but I agree that it does have a light floral scent and I think this would be lovely for spring/summer, although it's not something that I'd prefer to wear instead of my current perfumes.

3. Clarins - Extra-Firming Body Cream £39.50 / 200ml:

I could not find this product (or any Clarins products) on the Harrods website.  The price listed above was actually from the John Lewis website.  I'm not sure as to whether or not you can buy Clarins in store but it is rather odd that it isn't on their website which leads me to think that this might be an extra product that Glossybox decided to include.  Or perhaps Harrods are planning on including Clarins in the future. 

This product is described as a formula rich in regenerating and firming plant extracts which immediately helps to lift and tone, for firmer skin and a younger looking body.  I'm always quite skeptical about whether products like this one actually do what they claim to do.  But as I've recently had a baby, my skin could certainly do with a little firming so I'm more than happy to give this product a try to see if it works - fingers crossed!

4. Burberry Beauty - Miniature Lip Cover, Rosewood No4 £23 / 3.8g:

I was really pleased to receive this product as lip products in general are probably my favourite makeup item.  The lipstick is a complete miniature of the regular product and as you can see from the picture the lipstick is even embossed with the trademark Burberry print (so is the lipstick case but as it is reflective the picture doesn't show it).  Described as a soft satin lipstick that offers intense moisture and luminous long-lasting colour. Combining oils and light waxes, the super light formula is easy to apply and contains anti-aging ceramides for fuller lips.   This product is certainly very smooth on application and feels very moisturising on the lips.  The consistency reminds me of the Cremesheen lipsticks from Mac.  The colour is a deep berry stain and complements my dark hair and eyes, however it is a colour that I would be more prone to wearing on a night out.  However you can apply it lightly for a sheerer coverage if you wish for a day time look.  This certainly is a luxury product and one that would look very stylish in any makeup bag, but I am reluctant to purchase a full sized product as there are so many comparable lipsticks at a fraction of the cost.  But if it was bought for me as a present, I wouldn't say no!



5. Erno Laszlo - The Hollywood Collection: 5 Piece Cream Gift Set:

I had never heard of this product before so I went on to the Harrods website as I was intrigued to find out more. However once again, I could not find the brand. However on doing a bit of research I was able to find out some information. This Hollywood Collection is to celebrate 85 years of Erno Laszlo.  Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Madonna are just a few of the Hollywoods finest who have been huge advocates of this revoluntionary skincare and there is a store in Covent Garden where you can purchase the products. Dr Erno Laszlo was a Hungarian dermatologist who, back in 1927, started the company that went on to become a worldwide sensation. At first, the Erno Laszlo institute would only treat those who came via recommendation, thus assuring its exclusivity. Now, however, anyone can enjoy the benefits of Laszlo’s skin-boosting systems, from their classic Black Sea Mud soap to luxury spa treatments that target anti-ageing, brightening and problem skin.  So perhaps Harrods are about to launch this product in their stores too.

This sample pack contains Morning Beauty Rescue, Refresh Moisture Infusion, Instant Eye Repair, Intensive Porcelain Veil and Velvet Night Cream.  I'm not sure what all of the products claim to do but you can click here to go to their website.

As you know, I love my Liz Earle skincare products but I might just have to give these products a try.  I just hope that I don't like them too much as I doubt I will be able to afford the price tag as the US website has the items ranged from $85 to $175. 

A little tip - if you have samples in a sachet make a hole using a safety pin so you can squeeze out a small amount at a time ands then seal with some sellotape afterwards this ensures that you don't waste any of the product and so they last longer and don't expire.

Initial impression:

I'm really pleased with my box this month, and I'm happy with all of the products, especially with the hair oil.  The only thing I am slightly disappointed with is the perfume sample which I feel you can get over the counter anyway, but other than that I think this months box was a great edition and I look forward to future limited edition boxes that Glossybox do.

February Beauty Favourites 2012

I do not have a lot of new favourites this month I'm afraid, as I'm still loving the products mentioned in my January Beauty Favourites.  But I thought I'd still share a couple of things that I've been particularly enjoying this month.

I've been a lot more minimalist with my makeup lately and I've been trying to achieve a more natural glow.  Blusher is one product that I feel can achieve this as it really helps to warm the skin.  Usually I go for Mac's Melba blush for a more natural cheek, however this month I've been reaching for Estee Lauder's Tender Blush in Rose Wood (No 13) which is a rosey/mauve colour.  Unfortunately this blush has been discontinued but you might still be able to find it or one similar to it.   

Rose Wood is on the left

This compact came as part of a Christmas limited edition gift set a couple of years ago.  This is a matte blusher which is fairly pigmented and gives a nice warm flush to the cheeks and is perfect for Winter.  It is always worth keeping an eye out for Estee Lauder compacts as this is perfect for travelling with as it comes with a decent sized mirror, two blushes, a bronzer and a brush (although I never use these brushes it's always good to have for touch ups).

My next favourite is an eye look which I have been wearing almost every day throughout February.  All the eye shadows can be found in the Urban Decay Naked Palette (probably my favourite palette of all time).  I start by priming my eyes with Two Faced Shadow Insurance and then add a small amount of Mac's Bare study Paint Pot over the top,  I use both of these as they help to keep my eye shadows in place all day as well as enhancing the colour.  I then apply Sin all over the lid and blend Naked just above the crease.  I then take a small amount of Buck and blend it into the outer corner, feathering inwards a long the crease. 

L-R
Virgin, Sin, Naked, Sidecare, Buck

Sometimes if I want a more subtle eye I will leave it and just use Virgin to highlight the brow bone and inner corner of the eye.  However if I want to add a little more depth, I take Smog (a beautiful bronze colour) and put a small amount in the outer corner and feather lightly along the outer crease.  I then line the outer half of the lower lash line to give the look more intensity.


L-R
Buck, Half Baked, Smog, Darkhorse, Toasted

 Below are some swatches of the main four shadows that I use.


L-R
Buck, Naked, Sin, Smog

This eye combination works beautifully with my brown eyes however I think it would be suitable for all eye colours as well.  I love this palette and at the moment I tend to be reaching for it on a daily basis and ignoring all of my other eye shadows, which I must stop doing as I have so many others.  But the Urban Decay shadows are brilliant as they are so pigmented and are really easy to blend - why would I want to use anything else?
If I've not been using Mac's Tinted Lip Conditioner in Petting Pink (as mentioned in my January Beauty Favourites) then I've tended to gravitate towards the following lip combination.  I apply Mac's Creme Cup lipstick (which is a cremesheen finish) lightly over the lips and then apply Mac's Baby Sparks Dazzleglass over the top.  I use to love Dazzleglasses and I have quite a few of them, however this is the only colour that I seem to use now as it is a wearable baby pink (with pink and blue shimmer/glitter) without having too much glitter like some of the others.  As I'm getting older, I've started to like a more natural but glossy lip.  This lip combination works brilliant for day or night and can be paired with either a natural eye or one that is slightly more dramatic, so for me this is perfect.

This swatch was taken without a flash so I'm afraid it is not great but it gives you an idea of what the colours look like.  As you can see from the picture below, the lipgloss is fairly thick and it is very sticky so if you don't like that feeling on your lips then I would avoid this, however the plus side is that it does last longer on the lips so you don't have to keep reapplying it.

My last beauty favourite for February is Sudocrem.  Recently I've had the odd blemish on my face and so I've been reaching for this product and applying it over any redness at night before I go to bed.  The next morning, the blemish has either completely gone or become significantly smaller with hardly any redness left.  A true winner and something that I will constantly repurchase and use time and time again.

Other non-beauty favourites this month have been Cath Kidston.  I've really discovered their products this month and currently I have a long list of things that I would like to get.  I also have a review of one of their changing bags coming up in a future post so look out for that. If you like floral prints with a countryside flair then you will probably love her things, I know I do.  They sell a variety of things from clothing, accessories as well as things for the home and more so it is definitely worth checking out if you haven't already. 

 

My other favourite this month has been American TV shows.  I have especially been loving Ringer at the moment as well as The Secret Circle and Hart of Dixie.  Also previous favourites such as Gossip Girl, Greys Anatomy and Vampire Diaries have just returned to our screens following a mid-season break.  Our Sky box at the moment is looking rather full from all the shows that I've been recording, but as our nights are mostly spent in looking after Olivia, it gives us something to watch.  Plus Phil doesn't mind watching them either which is a bonus for me.

 

I've been loving some more products this month, but as it was towards the end of February I thought that I would include them in next months beauty favourites.  So you will just have to wait until then to find out what they are.

 

Glossybox - February 2012

Last month I posted about the January Glossybox which was a Valentines Day limited edition box.  This month it is back to the traditional dusty pink box containing products that reflect London Fashion Week (23-26 February).

If you are unfamiliar to Glossybox, it's a monthly subscription where you receive 5 or 6 luxury product miniatures (some of which may be full size) from high-end brands every month.  You just register to create an account and subscribe to receive your first Glossybox.  The box is sent directly to your door every month and will allow you to test out new products in the comfort of your own home. You can also provide product feedback in order to receive Glossydots which you can collect in order to claim a free box.  The box also contains product information, application notes and tips and tricks about beauty and style. It gives you the chance to try new perfumes, make up, body and care products of high-end and niche brands some of which you may not have heard of or tried otherwise.  The beauty box costs £10.00 per month (plus p+p).

This is the traditional box that you will receive each month which is a dusty pink colour with the Glossybox logo on the front.

There was a little more literature than usual in this months box.  It had the standard product information card that tells you where you can buy the products, how much they cost and any discounts that are available to you if you want to purchase the products.  But it also contained a flyer about London Fashion Week with a 15% discount code for tickets. 

The last item was a small business card that says "Expect The Unexpected" and to log on to the site from the 24th February for more information.  When you log on you see the following image:

Every day when you click on the box you receive an individual letter that spells a clue about the mystery box.  So far I have received the letters D, G, and I.  I think that the box may have something to do with designer, but that is just a guess and I'll keep you posted on the outcome.

Back to this months box and as usual the products were beautifully wrapped.

Finally let's take a peak inside this months Glossybox.

1. Duwop Venom Gloss in Buttercup £16 / 10.4ml:  This doesn't look like anything much in the tube but on application the product is quite sheer and gives a nice neutral sheen to the lips with gold reflex.  It causes a light tingling to the lips (due to the venom) which I'm not really a fan of and the product has quite a strong sweet smell which becomes slightly sickly after a while.  I have so many lip glosses that this wouldn't be one that I would reach for on a regular basis but it might be pretty as a top coat to tone down a stronger lip.  The product is also very sticky, so I definitely won't be wearing this on a windy day as I'd rather my hair wasn't stuck to my lips.

2. Impress Press on manicure £17.40 / Set:  I have my nails done professionally, so I never use press on nails.  But even if I did, these would not be something that I would try, purely down to the colour which is neon orange (the picture doesn't quite capture the true colour as it is much brighter).  This is a new product that claims on application to last up to a week.  The packaging is innovative as it looks like a nail polish bottle and keeps the nails contained so you won't lose them, but sadly this will not be a product that I'll be trying. I would have prefered to have received a nail varnish as at least I could wear it on my toes, but I never wear press-on-nails so I am rather disappointed with this product.

3. Paul Mitchell Quick Slip £14.25 / 150ml:  This is a styling cream that claims to p

rovide flexible hold and definition, s

hields vulnerable strands from the sun and s

peeds up drying time while it conditions and protects.  It also contains s

oftening conditioners and UV protection to leave hair looking and feeling healthy.  I have yet to try this product, but it is definitely something that I will try as I love experimenting with products claiming to protect your hair.  The product has a thick creamy consistancy (like most conditioners) and the inclusion of a pump means that you can control the amount being used without wasting any product.  It has the same scent that can be found in other Paul Mitchell products which is quite strong and sweet (to me it smells like fabric softener).

4. BM Beauty Pure Mineral Eyeshadow in Wolf Howl £7 / 2g:  I am not the biggest fan of mineral eyeshadows, purely for the fact that I have a tendency to spill them.  I received the colour Wolf Howl which is an iredescent midnight blue colour.   I tend to wear more neutral eyeshadows however I would probably wear this to line my lower lash line to add a pop of colour. 

5. Como Shambhala Invigorate Shower Gel £20 / 300ml: I have so many bath/shower products at the moment that I didn't really need a new shower gel (I'm currently trying to use up a large bottle of Snow Fairy by Lush).  However this 50ml bottle would be perfect for travelling so I know I will use it at some point.  It is described as being an invigorating shower gel which contains a blend of essential oils (eucalptus, geranium, lavender and peppermint) which are designed to uplift your mood.  You can really smell the lavender and peppermint especially in this product and the smell reminds me of Turkish Delight.  I wouldn't pay £20 normally for a shower gel so I don't think I'll be repurchasing this as there are some brilliant alternatives for a lot less money, but it's always nice to try out something new and a little different.

My initial impression....

Some nice products, but generally a little disappointed, especially with the colour choices of the lipgloss, eyeshadow and press-on-nails in particular.  I'm looking forward to seeing what will be in next months Mystery Box - hopefully it'll be something exciting!

If you would like to read future posts relating to Glossybox then please subscribe.

January Beauty Favourites 2012

It's that time of the month where I share my monthly favourites.  These are products that I have repeatedly loved using throughout the course of the month and are either new discoveries or items that I have re-discovered.  Some products, for example those mentioned in my skin care routine etc will not be shown as they are products that I have loved and used for a long time and would therefore be present in every months favourites, not just in this months (see below for the list - perhaps I will do a separate post about these).  The items below are in no particular order.

Long Standing Favourites (these are products that have not changed for a long time):

Skincare: Liz Earle (see skincare favourites)
Powder: Mac Mineralised Skinfinish Natural
Foundation: Estee Lauder Sheer Tint Release
Bronzer: Nars Laguna
Concealer: Bobbi Brown Corrector, Mac Select Moisture Cover Concealer and Bare Minerals Eye Brightener in Well Rested.
Eye Liner: L'Oreal Liner Intense in Carbon Gloss
Mascara: Benefit They're Real
Brows: HD Brow Set

This months favourites are:


Organix Brazillian Keratin Therapy Shampoo & Conditioner £6.99 each from Boots

I have discovered a new shampoo and conditioner that works wonders on my hair.  Organix Brazilian Keratin Therapy Shampoo 385ml is described as being an exclusive blend of antioxidant rich cocoa nut oil along with lush keratin proteins to help strengthen and soften the hair, while organic avocado oil and cocoa butter smooth the cuticle for straight, strong tresses, adding a brilliant glow and luminescent shine.  I have straight hair (with a slight kink to it if left to dry naturally) so you may wonder why I even bothered to try a Keratin shampoo as they are designed for people with curly hair who want to straighten it.  I chose this product because of the ingredients and to help create silky smooth locks that are really conditioned from within.  Along with using the Organix Brazilian Keratin Therapy Conditioner 385ml I really feel that I have finally achieved the hair that I wanted which is in good condition, shiny and full of body.  It is also sodium and sulphate free which is also good for your hair - for more information about this click here.  I will probably do a separate review on this product as I have really enjoyed using it so far, so I will save some of my thoughts and feelings about this product until then.

Amazon Kindle £89

This was one of my favourite Christmas presents that I received this year (so excited to finally have one) and has been used continuously throughout January.  I love reading, but I was finding it increasingly difficult to read a book (especially if I was holding Olivia and she fell asleep) as I couldn't turn the pages.  The Kindle solved this problem completely as it is light to hold and easy to turn the pages with one click of a button.  I also like to carry a book with me (as you never know when you might get the chance to read) and with all of the things that I need to carry with me for Olivia there is not much room for a book in my bag.  The new Kindle is so practical for this as it is smaller and lighter than traditions books as well as the original Kindle.  Some people may not like that there isn't a key pad available (the new one you have to scroll through an on-screen keypad using the cursor) but this doesn't bother me as it is not as though you need to use the key pad all the time.  The page size is exactly the same as the original but the new Kindle only holds 1000 books, which is more than plenty for me (the original holds 3,500).  One thing I will add is that it does not come with a charger.  It has the cable required, so if you have an Apple charger with a USB port you can use this or you can charge it directly from a computer using the USB cable.  It was not a problem for me as I had an Apple charger that I could use but if you don't then it might be worth purchasing one for ease (although the Kindle does stay charged for a very long time).

Laura Mercier Hand Cream in Creme Brulee £13 for 50g

This month I have found that I am reaching for hand cream more than ever as I am forever washing my hands or washing-up bottles etc and due to the cold weather they have been a lot dryer than normal.  My favourite hand cream is from the Creme Brulee range by Laura Mercier.  It is a rich creme that nourishes the skin without leaving a greasy film. It contains grape and olive oils which help to soften and moisturise, while soy proteins rich in amino acids help in the repair process. The fragrance is a deep rich caramel with nuances of sugar, vanilla and musk and as Creme Brulee is my favourite dessert to eat, how could I possibly resist this.

Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum

As you can see from the bottle (which is 100ml) I do not have a lot of this product left.  I was trying to save this until I bought another bottle and recently I received one as a gift, so throughout January I have been using this product like mad as it is one of my all time favourites.  The perfume is describe as being a fragrance created for an elegant and spirited young woman in love. Romantic by nature, Miss Dior Chérie inspires an intense and playful love, for which she is also searching. She personifies the spontaneous joie de vivre of today's young women, representing a particular type of freedom and seduction. The fragrance is characterised by an instant and captivating charm. Whether or not you agree with their statement is up to you but whenever I wear this perfume I always feel elegant and girly and I love the combination of citrus fruits and floral notes.

Mac Tinted Lip Conditioner in Petting Pink £11 for 15ml

Due to the weather being a lot colder and the fact that I can't stop kissing Olivia (her cheeks are so cute I can't help myself) I've been avoiding wearing as much lipstick/lipgloss.  This month I wanted my lips to be conditioned but still have a slight tint of colour to them.  I raided through my make-up collection and re-discovered my lip conditioner from Mac in the shade Petting Pink.  It is a protective emollient balm formulated with SPF 15, and gives a sheer wash of colour and an all-natural sheen. It helps to condition the lips, and locks in moisture, and contains Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Avocado Extract, Wheat Germ Oil, Vitamins A and E.  It gives my lips a pretty pink tint to them with a lovely sheen and goes with anything that you might put on your eyes or cheeks.  The best thing of all - it doesn't transfer when I give Olivia a kiss, or get stuck to my hair (which is something I really hate about Lipgloss).

Palmer's Cocoa Butter £3 - £4 for 250ml

This was my favourite moisturiser when I was pregnant and throughout January when the weather is cold and leaves my skin on the dry side.  Palmer's Cocoa Butter is a rich creamy lotion made from pure Cocoa Butter enriched with Vitamin E, and is an advanced moisturiser that softens, smoothes and relieves dry skin. It is also designed to help smooth and blend marks and scars so is helpful in preventing those dreaded stretch marks which so many women fear when pregnant.  I didn't get any stretch marks during my pregnancy and this was the only product that I used on my skin.  The scent is quite strong and it not to everyones taste but I really adore the chocolate smell that it leaves on my skin.  However if you don't like the scent you can purchase a fragrance free version and still enjoy the benefits.

I will post my favourites around the same time each month and if you would like any of these products reviewed in more depth then please leave a comment below.  Also you can subscribe for future updates on my monthly favourites.

Glossybox - January 2012

Over the last 6 months beauty boxes have been taking the beauty community by storm.  There are various companies offering similar boxes but the one I am subscribed to (and have been since September 2011) is Glossybox.

Have you heard of Glossybox?

It's a monthly subscription where you receive 5 or 6 luxury product miniatures (some of which may be full size) from high-end brands every month.  You just register to create an account and subscribe to receive your first Glossybox.  The box is sent directly to your door every month and will allow you to test out new products in the comfort of your own home. You can also provide product feedback in order to receive Glossydots which you can collect in order to claim a free box.  The box also contains product information, application notes and tips and tricks about beauty and style. It gives you the chance to try new perfumes, make up, body and care products of high-end and niche brands some of which you may not have heard of or tried otherwise.  The beauty box costs £10.00 per month (plus p+p).

The Box..

Each box comes beautifully packaged each month and carries the Glossybox logo. 

The traditional boxes are a pale pink and black in appearance, however they have limited addition boxes to represent certain occasions.  For example the December box was glossy red and black to represent the Christmas season and this months much awaited box was advertising Valentines day.  Imagine my surprise when I opened the packaging to reveal a bright hot pink box - very excited!

Within each box there is a card that reveals information about each of the products in your box as well as the pricing for a full sized product and website addresses for where the products can be purchased.  It also reveals any discount codes or promotions that are offered if you purchase one of the products.

Each box is packaged to a high standard which makes the experience even more special when you open it.

So, what's inside this months box?

1. Eyeko Skinny Eyeliner (Full sized product) in Midnight Blue £9.50:  Not really a colour that I would normally use (I'd have preferred Black or even Brown) this eyeliner has a very creamy consistency when applied.  It also has a handle attached to the eyeliner to allow for the entire product to be used unlike regular eyeliners.  It is advertised as offering precise definition and an intense colour with a long-lasting finish.

2. Clarins Extra Firming Night Cream £48 / 50ml:  Advertised as being an innovative night cream that not only addresses skin renewal and firmness, but also helps to slow the ageing process with neuro-immune protection.

3. Clarins Extra Firming Day Cream £46.50 / 50ml:  Designed to infuse skin with firming benefits that are immediate and long-lasting.

4. FAB Body Moisturiser £13/ 237g: Formulated with ingredients to nourish and restore, it is designed to improve the skin barrier function and lock in moisture after bathing.  It is allergy-tested, fragrance free, dermatologist recommended and contains no harsh chemicals.  It is also safe for sensitive skin.  Personally I like moisturisers that are have a fragrance but I shall give this a try nevertheless.

5. Murad Hybrids Skin Perfecting Primer - Dewy Finish £29 / 30ml: An oil-free primer which ignites a radiant glow, powered by light-enhancing minerals.  Sounds exciting and exactly what I look for in a primer.  As my primer is almost run out, I shall definitely be trying this one.

My initial impression....

Seeing as though this box was a Valentines Day edition and had been publicised throughout January, I have to admit that I was rather underwhelmed.  With so much potential available for an exciting Valentines box I was rather disappointed about the products included unlike the Christmas box which I really enjoyed.

I'm not going to review the products just yet as I have only just received them and I haven't had the chance to test them properly.  If you would like to see a review for any of these products then please leave a comment below.

I'm hoping that next months box will be a tad more exciting.  But that's why I like receiving a beauty box, as you never know what you're going to get.  I'm currently debating whether or not to try another beauty box for comparison...any recommendations?  Maybe I will, you'll just have to wait and see!

Skincare Favourites & Routine

Ever since I was a teenager one thing I always made sure that I had was a proper skincare routine.  I always cleanse, tone and moisturise in the morning and especially at night.  No matter how tired I am, one rule that I always follow is to never sleep in my make-up.  Although the products that I use may have changed over time, my routine never does.

During pregnancy your hormones can be all over the place and this can have a negative impact on your skin causing it to break out.  I was very fortunate in that a part from the odd blemish my skin was always in good condition and I think having a consistent routine has a lot to do with that.

So what products do I use to maintain a clear complextion?  Here they are.  Now although they work for me, they may not work for everyone.  I have combination skin (more on the dry side than oily) and it can be sensitive at times.  For example both the Clinque 3-Step programme and Chanel skin care range did not work for my skin and they both caused a raised rash on my cheeks.  The products below however seem to work with my skin rather than against it.

Step 1: Removing Make-up

Simple Cleasing Wipes x 25 for Sensitive Skin
Price varies from £2 - £3 depending on where purchased

Before cleasing my face I always make sure that I take off all my make-up using a facial wipe.  At the moment my favourite brand to use is Simple as they can remove even stubborn eye make-up.  They are designed to cleanse and tone the skin however I would never leave my skin after this step.  I feel that the wipe is designed to remove the make-up but I then cleanse the skin to ensure that it is really clean.  By doing this my skin has been a lot clearer and has reduced the chances of blemishes from appearing.

Liz Earle Clense and Polish £12.25 100ml Pump
Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic £12.25 200ml

Step 2: Cleanse & Polish



Liz Earle's Cleanse and Polish is a cult favourite of many beauty gurus.  The plant based cleanser is free from mineral oil, and has a rich and creamy texture which is able to remove all traces of face and eye make up, and even stubborn mascara by massaging it on to dry skin.  This is the then followed by using the pure muslin cloth to gently dislodge dead skin cells and help reveal clean, soft and radiant skin.   The cleanser includes eucalyptus and cocoa butter for smoother, clearer skin.  I adore this cleanser as it has transformed my skin and it is one that I will continue to purchase time and time again.



Step 3: Toner

After I have cleansed my skin, I soak a cotton pad in the toner and sweep it over my face and neck.  The toner is floral-scented (but not in an old granny way) and helps to soothe and brighten the skin as well as leaving it feeling refreshed. It is very gentle and alcohol-free. The ingredients include organic aloe vera to revitalise and soften and calendula, chamomile, cucumber and natural source vitamin E to soothe and refresh the skin. One thing that I do not like about some toners is that they can leave your skin feeling tight after using them.  This product does not do that, instead it leaves it fresh and moisturised.

Step 4: Removing Eye Make-Up 



Mac's Pro Eye Make-Up Remover £7 for 30ml

Often I might do this step before I use the toner and sometimes afterwards.  I won't do this everyday, however if after I have cleansed my skin using the wipes and the Cleanse and Polish I am still able to see traces of mascara on my eyelashes, then I will use this eye make-up remover.  Mac's Pro Eye Makeup Remover is a clear, lightweight liquid that gently and effectively removes all eye makeup, including waterproof and transfer-resistant products. It contains Cucumber Extract to soothe and hydrate the skin and it's perfectly safe for contact lens wearers and it doesn't sting your eyes when applied.

Step 5: Moisturise

Skin Repair Moisturiser £18.25 50ml Jar

I then apply a pea sized amount of moisturiser to my face and neck.  This perfectly balanced moisturiser softens, smoothes and conditions normal/combination skin for a naturally healthy glow.  It is rich in natural actives, including borage oil (a rich source of the essential fatty acid GLA) and natural antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin E to replace lost moisture and help protect the skin. You can also purchase this moisturiser in a lighter formular for oily skin as well as one for dry skin.  This is quite a rich moisturise, hence why you only need a small amount as it is enough to cover your whole face.  It doesn't include an SPF (none of Liz Earle products do) however that doesn't bother me as my tinted moisturiser and foundations that I use do.  I also have a primer which has an SPF of 50 so I think that's more than enough.

Step 6: Eye Cream 

Origin's GinZing £21 for 15ml

I always use this eye cream in the mornings.  It is designed to reduce the look of dark circles and make bags and puffiness seem less visible. This eye cream also contains Caffeine from Coffee bean, Panax Ginseng, Magnolia Extract and natural optic brighteners to rapidly wake up, refresh and restore radiance to tired eyes.  All you need to do is pat the product gently around the eye area (do not rub as it will stretch the delicate skin and could cause wrinkles) for instantly brightened eyes.



Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair £36 for 15ml



Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair is a wonderful product although expensive. It has a silky serum-gel consistency which is designed to help reduce the look of every key sign of ageing around the fragile eye area:

• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Puffiness
• Dark circles
• Dryness
• Uneven skintone

Whether or not these claims are true I cannot say but I do feel that it has helped to prevent fine lines and wrinkles from appearing.  Although it is expensive, you only need a small amount so the product does last a very long time.  At the moment I want to maintain and protect the delicate area around the eye and whether it is this product or not, one things for sure and that is that I will always use an eye cream for day and night.  I have almost run out of this eye cream and I am quite intrigued to try other night creams on the market.  Any recommendations then please leave a comment below.

Pure Muslin Cloths £3.75 for 2



When using the Cleanse and Polish I always use one of Liz Earle's Muslin Cloths to polish the skin.  They are extremely kind on the skin and provide a gentle way to exfoliate the skin and enhance daily cleansing. They remove dead skin cells and impurities whilst helping to stimulate the circulation.  They are also machine washable but it is wise to wash them after every second use to ensure that they remain in good condition.

When I tell people my age, people are often surprised and say that I look younger then I am and I think that because I have always had a skin care routine and stick to it religiously this has helped to ensure that my skin is always well moisturised which is one way of preventing wrinkles etc from forming. 

Over the years the products I have used have changed and who knows whether or not I will still use these products in a years time.  One thing that will remain though is the routine of cleansing, toning and moisturing every morning and night and I will certainly encourage Olivia when she is older to do the same.

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2011 Beauty Favourites

I love make-up and all things beauty related.  In fact if I had the chance I would love to train as a make-up artist and work on the London fashion shows but I also love my life as it is with my husband, daughter and two cats (Bailey and Murphy) so for the time being make-up will just have to remain as a hobby of mine. 

I hate to admit it, but yes, I am one of those women who don't leave the house without makeup on even to go to the supermarket.  I just don't feel like me without it on - even if my husband says that I look beautiful without it (he always knows the right things to say).  Don't get me wrong I don't wear a ton of make-up but I do like to wear it - perhaps it's the actress in me, putting make-up on to play a part.  Although that makes me sound that I'm fake and lack confidence - I'm not and I don't.  I can lack confidence in myself at times just like anyone, but make-up just makes me feel pretty! When I was growing up I would sit on my mum's bed and watch her put on her make-up and for years I thought that all women did that.  It wasn't until I had an office job when I was 18 that I suddenly realised that not all women wear make-up to work and it took me a long time to understand why.  

Well enough about me justifying why I like make-up, I just do and so I thought I'd share some of my favourite products from the past year.

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish: 100ml pump £12.25

I tried this product a couple of years ago and it was at a time when I was using a combination of different products and something caused my skin to react and not create spots but instead a raised rash.  I therefore stopped using this product thinking that it didn't work for my skin.  At the beginning of 2011 I was running out of my favourite face wash by Estee Lauder and came across the cleanse and polish.  As my skin was currently in a good place I decided to give it a try but just at night time.  I was astounded by the results as it made my skin so soft and smooth.  Slowly as I was running out of my moisturiser and other skin care products I switched over to Liz Earle and I have to admit that I couldn't be happier with the results.  The cleanse and polish is a fairly thick and creamy consistency but you only need a pea sized amount which is then massaged onto dry skin.  Using the polishing cloth to then remove any dirt leaves the skin feeling moisturised and very soft.  I cannot rave enough about this product and it is one that I will continue to repurchase time and time again.

Estee Lauder Day Wear: 50ml £34

This is Estee Lauder's version of the tinted moisturiser and I have to say that I love wearing this product especially at the moment during the cold weather as I feel that it really leaves my skin moisturised.  It blends really easily so this product is perfect for first time mums and for the mornings when you have to get ready in a hurry.  I first bought this product during the summer last year as I wanted something whilst on holiday that could even out my skin tone without it looking too cakey and this product certainly did the trick.  It is on the pricier side for a tinted moisturiser but I like the fact that it includes an SPF 15.  The product is supposed to be designed for all skin tones as it is a sheer release that on application and blending into the skin changes colour.  I'm not sure whether this would be suitable for every skin tone though.  I am an NW20 (Mac colour range) usually and at the moment I would say that it is a little too dark for me, so I make sure that I only use a small amount and that it is well blended.  In the summer though it is perfect, especially if I want to achieve a natural glow but with some coverage.



Nars Laguna Bronzer: £24

 As  you can see from the picture above I have used a lot of this product.  In fact I have had this bronzer for over 18 months and there is still a lot left.  I love to wear bronzer but I am not one for the Oompah Lumpa look hence why I have so much left.  This product does give a bronzed glow to the face which is just what I am after and even though there is shimmer in the product it is not too much and I don't seem to notice it on the skin.  The product also doesn't look too muddy which can also be a problem with bronzers, instead it gives a natural tan (but this can change depending on how it is applied).  Nars products always look very sleek and stylish in their packaging but it does becoming quite grubby looking after a while if powder gets on to it.  With a mirror included in the compact, this product is perfect for travel as it is a decent size. 


Mac Mineralised Skinfinish Natural in Medium: £20.50 10g

I tend to have combination skin which features more on the dry side than the oily.  However I do like to set my makeup every day with powder to ensure that it stays in place.  Mac's Mineralised Skinfinish Natural allows for a light coverage to the face without it looking as though you have powder on - perfect!  I tend to use the shade Medium all year round to save buying a different shade for the summer months.  When I do have a tan I tend to increase the amount of bronzer I use on my face but as I only apply a small amount of power anyway it doesn't seem to matter that it's a shade lighter. There is a lot of product here and tends to last for a long time before having to re-purchase, in fact my last one lasted well over a year and I used it every day. 

Mac Mineralised Skinfinish in By Candlelight
£21.50 10g

 I love wearing highlighters and some of my all time favourites are from Mac in the form of their Mineralised Skinfinishes.  By Candlelight has been my absolute favourite this year and although it is a limited edition product it has be re-promoted in the past in different collections so it is always worth keeping your eyes open for them.   This product really does give a lovely glow to the cheekbones and tends to go with anything as it has a slight pink/beige undertone.  This truly is a product that I think would work on any skin tone, but if you can't find this then there are always others that you could try.  Again a little goes a long way so you won't need to buy another one in a hurry - unless like me you like buying them.

Urban Decay Naked Palette £35

I didn't really have a favourite eyeshadow this year - I had a whole palette.  The Naked Palette by Urban Decay has been named as being the favourite for many beauty gurus in 2011.  Some people don't like the fact that this palette is mostly shimmer but I am not one of them.  I love a shimmery look (not glittery though) on the eye and this palette includes some of my favourite colours to wear which are pink/taupe, and gold/browns.  My favourite combination from this palette is to use Sin all over the lip with Toasted in the crease.  I then take Hustle and put it in the outer v and along the lower lash line.  I then use Virgin as a highlighter for the brow bone and inner corner.  This gives me one of my staple looks and one that I will continue to love and wear well into 2012. This product is great value for money as it includes 12 shadows and all of them give amazing pay off.  With the release of Naked Palette 2 this month I am just wondering if that will take over as being my favourite for this year, who knows!

Chloe Eau de Parfum £39.50 30ml

I am awful at trying to describe scents.  All I will say is that whenever I wear this perfume I always have people asking me what I am wearing and complimenting me on it.  Not only has this scent been perfect for the Spring/Summer as it is light and fresh, it is also perfect for Autumn/Winter as it is slightly musky.  I love this perfume and I'm sure it will be one that stays in my collection for some time.


Moroccan Oil Sample £5.99 10ml

During my pregnancy the only thing I really suffered from was tiredness (I know, I was very lucky).  This meant that getting ready in the mornings was a chore and often I would do my makeup but not really bother about my hair.  My hair has become very long at present with it almost reaching my bust and still I don't really do much to my hair as I don't have the time.  This is where Moroccan Oil became a life safer for me as I still wanted to ensure that my hair was left in good condition especially the ends which were becoming rather dry.  This product can be quite expensive but you can get different sizes and you don't need a lot of the product especially if you are only concentrating on the ends of the hair which is what I do.  As mentioned, I am not very good at describing smells but the oil has a really pleasant smell and leaves your hair feeling soft and smooth.


Bobbi Brown Corrector in Bisque £17
Mac Pain Point in Bare Study £14.50 5g
Too Faced Shadow Insurance in Lemon Drop £16.50

Due to constantly being overtired I am paranoid of it showing especially around my eyes and so concealers have paid a large part in preventing the world from knowing just how tired I really am.  Bobbi Browns Corrector has been a life saver this year.  With its creamy consistency it is really easy to apply and neutralises the skin around the eye area (I also use it around the nose, mouth and to neutralise blemishes).  I then apply my favourite concealer (Mac's Select Moisture Cover in NW20) over the top and it's goodbye to tired eyes. 

I work long hours and most mornings I do my makeup at 6.30 am so I need it to stay put all day.  I combine two products everyday to ensure that my eyeshadow stays vibrant and doesn't budge.  Lots of people love Urban Decays Primer Potion to do this but I have always loved Two Faced Shadow Insurance as it is creamy without being greasy and gives a lovely base which neutralises any redness on my eyelids.  I then use one of Mac's Paint Pot on top before applying my eye shadows to make them more vibrant.  My favourite this year has been the colour Bare Study which is a shimmering champagne colour and looks beautiful on the lids even if worn alone and goes perfectly under any eye shadows and prevents them from creasing.

L'Oreal Paris Super Liner Carbon Gloss in Black £6.49

Eyeliner is something that I always wear and for a long time I used gel liners like Mac's Blacktrack fluid line, however that was until I discovered this product.  L'Oreal's Super Liner creates the perfect line and helps to create flicks with ease.  I prefer the black version in Carbon Gloss rather than the traditional black as I feel it gives the line a nicer finish.  This is the only liquid liner that I have tried that really lasts all day and doesn't smudge if my eyes get wet.  For now this is the only liner that I need (and I have a lot of all different colours and types) for the time being - I just hope that they don't ever discontinue the product.

Benefit They're Real Mascara £18.50 8.5g

This was a late addition to my favourites this year (the product was only released towards the end of the year) but one that I thought was worth including as I really love the way it makes my lashes look.  The first time I tried Benefit's They're Real mascara I wasn't that convinced as the product appeared to be quite wet in consistency and didn't really hold a curl in my lashes.  I kept persevering with it as I had heard so many good reviews about it and as the product dried out slightly (they all do after a couple of days as air gets in) I was really impressed.  The brush allows for all the lashes to be coated and the spikes on the tip allows for even the tiniest of lashes especially in the inner corners to be coated.  Unfortunately I am not blessed with gorgeous long lashes, but this mascara does lengthen them (although not as much as I would like). It also holds the curl in my lashes and is easy to remove which for me is so important as I don't want my lashes to fall out unnecessarily.  So, for now I will be repurchasing this product as I like the way it makes my lashes look but I will continue to try new mascaras in the hope of finding a holy grail product but perhaps one that's a little cheaper.



Mac Lipstick in Plink and Patisserie £13.50 3g

  

Nars Lipgloss in Super Orgasm £17.50
Mac Plush Glass in Ample Pink £16.50

I have two favourite lip combinations that I wore this year.  The first being Mac's Patisserie lipstick (which has a lustre finish and creates a beautiful sheen to the lips) with Mac's Ample Pink Plush Glass over the top.  This was infact the lip combination for my wedding day so it holds a special place in my heart.  It creates a natural (my lips but better) lip that has a slightly dark pink/mauve tint and goes with any eye colour worn but especially a smokey eye and is one that I wear all year round.  The second combination that I love to wear is more appropriate for the summer but can be worn all year around too.  It is Mac's Plink lipstick (a lustre as well - they are my favourite) which is a light shimmery pink.  I then put Nars lipgloss in Super Orgasm over the top which is a deep pink with glitter throughout.  This combination gives a beautiful summery pink lip which looks perfect with a tan.


L-R Super Orgasm, Plink, Ample Pink, Patisserie (with flash)

The swatches above don't do these products justice as they all appear to look the same, but trust me, they are two lip combinations that are worth swatching in person and trying.

There are rather a lot of favourites shown above, but they are ones that I have loved throughout the whole of 2011.  Each month I will post my beauty favourites and there won't be as many as here, just products that I have either rediscovered from my collection or new products that I have been introduced to.  Perhaps some of my favourites are some of yours too!

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