Current Day to Day Make-up

I really do not have much time in the morning to put my face on, but it is the one thing I like to do as it makes me feel "put together" for the day ahead. I know what you are probably thinking how does a busy mother find time, but I do feel it is important that I also feel good for the day ahead. So, these are the current products I am using: 

• Bobbi Brown Face Touch-up Palette 
• Charlotte Tilbury The Uptown Girl Luxury Palette. 
• Essence Mattifying Compact Powder (10 Light Beige)
• Essence I Heart Colour Intensifying Eyeshadow Base 
• Maybelline Expertwear Blush (79 Flash Plum) 
• Bourjois Radiance Reveal Concealer (02 Beige)
• George Asda The Tamer 2 in 1 Lash Definer and Brow Tamer 
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara 
• La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + (Unifiant Light) 
• Maybelline Colour Elixir Lipgloss (105 Petal Plush) 

Empties - September 2016

September empties

My husband questions why I keep all of my rubbish, he just thinks I am weird and nearly on a daily basis will attempt to throw them out. I love watching empties videos on YouTube because I believe it gives you a good idea of what products people really like rather than continuing to promote PR items. So, here is my rubbish / beauty empties and a quick review of my thoughts and impression of the products and whether I would repurchase them. 

L'Oreal Elvive Nutri-Gloss Luminiser Shampoo and Conditioner - I do really like L'Oreal hair products, they just really work and are usually on offer which is great. With this collection it focuses on improving dull, lackluster hair and boosts radiance. I did like both of these products and I would repurchase again when they are on offer but other then that I would not purchase if they retailed at normal price point. These products are available here.

Champneys Spa Treatment Body Wash 

Champneys Spa Treatment Energising Lime Body Wash - this product was part of the old Champneys range they have had a serious make over and their products now look so much better. The lime wash was nice, left my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. My only criticism with this product was the thickness of the product it sometimes meant it was so difficult to get the product out, especially as you got towards the end of the bottle. I have a new Champneys body wash so I will keep you updated on whether I have the same problem. Check out the new Champneys range here.

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap (mild) - this was sample I had received some time ago and use this product when I travel. To be honest I am not a fan of this product. I find this product to drying and would not purchase this again. This product is available here.

Garnier Moisture + Restore Night Cream 

Garnier Moisture + Restore - for a night cream this product is not rich enough. For a night cream, I like a slightly thicker consistency cream then my day cream and this was just not enough for me. It did keep my skin hydrated so I would use this during the Summer months, but for the Winter its just not enough. I would not repurchase this product again but if you do not like a rich, thicker texture night cream this would be an ideal product for you. This product is available here.

Nuxe Gelee Exfoliante Douce 

Nuxe Gelee Exfoliante Douce Exfoliating Gel - I adore Nuxe products and I have already repurchased this product because I love it. The product contains the right amount of scrub for my skin and I use this product a couple of times a week which leaves my skin a lot clearer as it removes all of the old, dead skin cells. It is quite a scrubby gel so if you have super sensitive skin this may not be the best product for you, but other then than I would recommend this product. This product is available here.

Kanaa Skin Night Eye Health 

Kanaa Skin Night Eye Health - this is one of my favourite eye creams for this year. I like a rich eye cream and this really feels like it is actually working and my undereye area remains hydrated. I would purchase this product again. This product is available here.

Rodial Stem Cell Cleansing Cream 

Rodial Stem Cell Cleansing Cream - this is a great cleanser which removed all of my daily make up and dirt / grime from the day. This was a sample size I had received (which is a good size) and I have now repurchased the product again, because it just works. This product is available here.

Cotton Wool Pads

100 Round Cotton Wool Pads - I don't really need to say much else I go through tons and tons of these. 

Right Guard Women 

Right Guard Total Defence 5 - bit strange that I have put my deodorant in my empties, I have used this up and it is one of my favourites as it just works and leaves me smelling great for the day. I have of course repurchased this product. 

Soap and Glory Scrubatomic 

Soap and Glory Scrubatomic - I have lost count how many of these I have now gone through. Its a great scrub which again I use a couple of times a week. It is not too harsh on your skin, but I do think my skin would react badly if I used this every day. I love the packaging because you can get every bit of the product out and the packaging just looks clear and simple - with no complex jargon to confuse everyone. I have of course re-purchased and you can buy it here.

H & M Perfectionist Finishing Powder 

H & M Perfectionist Finishing Powder (Ivory) - this is one of my favourite pressed powders currently on the market, my only criticism was the packaging was flimsy and it did break when I had half the product left. Other then that, the actual product is good and finished my make up. I have repurchased the powder again and this product is available here.

Sanctuary Spa Foaming Cream Scrub 

Sanctuary Spa Foaming Cream Scrub - this is one of my favourite body scrubs and again I have been through bottles and bottles of this product. I can use this product everyday which is great for clearing off the dead skin cells and leaving my skin feeling soft and it smells beautiful. I have of course got back ups of this product. This product is available here.

Palmolive Naturals Delicate Care Wash - this was on offer I have not used any Palmolive products before. It was a great shower gel and I would repurchase if it was on offer as there was nothing negative about this product. This product is available here.

Ooharr Cream Face Masks

Oohaa Cream Masks 

I know I keep banging on the fact that I am currently pregnant, but it does have an impact on my beauty regime, my skin, my body and my life in general especially when you already have a little one to look after. 

Having a soak in the tub with a face mask a couple of times of week is firstly, my alone time without my little one and second it is the only time when I get to relax so I really do make the most of it to the extent my husband has had to check that I am ok because I have been in the bath that long. 

When I received these I was made up as I absolutely love the Ooharr Clay Masks and have repurchased these again and again as they are simply amazing. 

Juicy Burst Nourishing Cream Mask 

Juicy Burst Nourishing Cream Mask - this mask is suitable for all skin types. I have experienced in the past issues with some masks where they have felt like they are burning my skin and I have had to remove them straight away. However, with this mask it feels refreshing. 

Juicy burst contains oranges which provides revitalisation and hydration to your face and as you may have previously read my skin is loving Vitamin C products so the more I can get the better. My skin afterwards felt smooth and brighter and certainly tightened my pores. 

In addition, the mask is rich in antioxidant and has lots of natural ingredients such as lime, cucumber, calendula and olive which all work together to aid the improvement of your complexion. This is my current favourite mask due to the Vitamin C, but this may change once I have had a baby. 

This mask is a bargain at £1.20 and is available here.

Fruity Magic Rejuvenating Cream Mask 

Fruity Magic Rejuvenating Cream Mask - again, this mask is suitable for all skin types. It is rich in antioxidants, it is jammed packed with nutrients and natural ingredients such as green tea, aloe and honey. The mask features Vitamin A, C and E which is ideal for detox. This was great to aid with stabilising my skin as at present as you may know every day is different for my skin and I cannot second guess what is going to happen when I wake up, this is the joy of hormones! If you have spot prone skin this would be the perfect mask for you and again my skin felt hydrated and glowed the next day. I did get complements after I had used this mask during one of the mum and baby groups!! This mask costs £1.20 and is available here. 

I would highly recommend these masks and I have repurchased more of them because they just simply work and I have also purchased a lot of them for my other pregnant friends as a little pick me up during their pregnancy - which has gone down very well. 

ASDM Beverly Hills Products

I have to confess, I had never heard of ASDM Beverly Hills until they reached out for me. However, it is certainly a brand that people should sit up and take an interest in as their products are amazing and they really know their stuff about skin care and their customer requirements. I will be purchasing more of ASDM products as they are exactly what my skin likes and they have skin care experts on hand if you have any queries or questions. The packaging is beautiful with clear simple instructions, so if you are new to the skin care world you will not find it too daunting to use the products as the instructions are very clear and user friendly. Check out ASDM Beverley Hills website here for all of their products. 

Intensive Vitamin C Repair Serum - my skin is currently loving anything with Vitamin C in it, it just literally sucks it all up and wants more so when I received this I was on cloud 9. The serum is rich and helps to restore and install a brighter, healthy glow, 

The serum penetrates the skin quickly, and leaves no residue behind which is perfect. I used this product both day and night and there are no worries about how your make-up applies afterwards as it went on perfectly. 

This product is not tested on animals and is paraben free. 

This product is available here.

*please note my sister who has similar skin to mine but due to being pregnant I was unable to use the acid treatment, she reported back to me her thoughts on the products*

Pre-peel Treatment - this product is professional strength. The product works by reducing the pH of your skin, unblocking pores and eliminating excess oil. You get 40 treatments which for the price point is excellent value for money.

The application was easy to use and there was minimum waste. You must after the application ensure you protect your skin with sunscreen as your skin will be extra sensitive an you will be at an increase of sunburn.

This product is available here.

30% Glycolic Acid Medical Strength - this product is ideal for individuals who are new to Glycolic peels. I have used many peels before being pregnant and I am looking forward to trying this out as soon as the baby is born as my sister reported that this was an amazing product.

You must again, you sunscreen after using this product and always always do a patch test before using the product fully on your face.

This product stimulates new growth of skin and collagen and after using these products my sisters skin looked amazing and glowing.

This product is available here.

Post Peel Treatment Serum - at the conclusion of using the above products you finish by using the serum which helps to provide hydration and healing actives post the acid peel. This is an essential at the conclusion of the treatment. The serum helps to re-balance the skin's pH but also aids healing and accelerates the rate of healing - so, its a stage not to be missed.

The feedback from my sister is her skin felt amazing after using these products, it has helped to stabilise her skin and feels hydrated. I have to say from seeing her skin, I have seen a noticeable difference and very jealous that I cannot use these products until November and like I said as soon as the baby is out, I will be using these products.

This product is available here.

In addition, ASDM Beverly Hills sell an at home kit which is available here which I would highly recommend. 

I would highly recommend ASDM Beverly Hills products, I think it is an up and coming brand and I am going to definitely repurchase more products as I have completely fallen in love with the brand, the customer service and customer focus is second to none. My advice, check out there website now, you will not be disappointed!!!!

MUA Metallic Eyeshadow Palette - Alchemy

MUA is a great brand if you are on a limited budget and are a big fan of make-up. You do have to sift through the products as some are excellent and some are not so good. Within the metallic shadow range there are four palettes available containing three shadows and an eye primer.

MUA state that these shadows are silky smooth and easily blendable with the addition of a long lasting primer. 

I have recently been loving a metallic eye, but a bold eye with a nude lip and lots and lots of mascara - its just my current mood. I was hoping this palette would meet that requirement.

However, unfortunately the colour pay off was not what I had expected it took a lot to build up the colour and even then it was not as bold as anticipated. The primer was very poor and only lasted around an hour I ended up with terrible creasing which was disappointing. I even attempted to use the shadows wet, but still the colour pay off was poor and lacked pigmentation. 

The shadows did not even last the day the limited colour pay off I had at the beginning of the day only lasted until lunch - even when I used my usually primer. 

Overall, I was disappointed with this palette, however at £4.00 it is a reasonable price and if you want a "wash" of colour of metallic colour then this would be the ideal palette for you. In addition, if you do not have oily eyelids then the primer is likely to work out for you. Check out the palettes here.

FakeBake Flawless Self-Tan Liquid - Medium

I have a real issue with fake tan firstly, I am rubbish at the application and always always end up with streaks which is frustrating and secondly, I just don't have time and thirdly the smell of some tanning products I just don't like. 

However, I have never tried any of the FakeBake products so I thought it would be an ideal opportunity to see whether this brand can change my mind. And, it has. I had a family event on recently and with the outfit I was wearing I didn't want my pasty legs on show so it was a perfect time to try out this product. So, I applied this product in the evening when the baby went to sleep and allowed the tanning product to develop overnight.   The product was easy to apply with the professional mitt and FakeBake also provide gloves which was just so handy. The application was easy with the mitt and I had no streaking or issues once the tan had fully developed. 

In addition, overnight there was no sticky feeling and it did not clog any pores or once the tan had faded I had no breakouts etc. The bonus quality of this product was the smell as there was no horrible typical tan smell which is the main thing that puts me off. 

FakeBake is committed to using the highest quality ingredients and tanning actives. FakeBake are passionate about providing high quality products to their customers and really value the thoughts and opinions of their customers which I love about a brand. 

FakeBake use naturally derived tanning formula which creates a longer lasting tan, for me this tan lasted around 5-7 days which was exactly what I wanted. I also ensured I thoroughly exfoliated before using the product to ensure the product applied evenly and had not body lotion or deodorant.

This product is ideal for all skin types and tones and contains the highest quality of premium ingredients free from preservatives and parabens. This is one product that I would be using again and FakeBake have definitely encouraged me to use more tanning products rather than shy away from them. 

Check out the FakeBake website here for more products. 

Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Hair Care

I am a massive fan of Shea Moisture, I only wish that all the other products which are available in the US are available in the UK. So, I just make the most of the hair products being available at Boots, I know the products are slightly more expensive then the products in the US - but, that seems to always be the case for beauty products. 

If you have not tried Shea Moisture, I strongly recommend you all to have a look at the products available as you will not be disappointed.

The fruit fusion range provides hydration, softens your hair and provides an additional boost. The products provide an instance boost of hydration with nutrients, vitamins and minerals that "recharge" lifeless hair. Due to currently being pregnant, my hair does look shiny and fuller but I am concerned that after having a baby this will all stop as when I had my last little one my hair looked terrible so I am hoping this will aid the aftermath of pregnancy. 

Within the fruit fusion range it contains fresh dragon fruit, lychee berry and green apple. In addition, there are extracts of coconut water which helps to boost lifeless hair and the 100% coconut water is what provides the hydration. Lastly, the products contain imbe oil which locks in the moisture and provides protection from environmental factors. 

Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Texture Spray 

I adore a texture spray and it is a massive part of my hair care regime. My hair has a slight wave to it, so at times it looks heavy and messy - in not a good way. So, I add a spritz of this product and and then dry my hair properly which leaves my hair looking "good messy" and a beach look. My hair has been much more manageable since I have started using this product.

Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Hair Masque

I don't have much time with having a little one and another one on the way so I want an effective hair mask that really works and provides a deeper conditioner and I have certainly found it in this product. My hair felt amazing after using this product, soft, supple and hydrated. The smell was amazing, to the extent my husband commented on it and he never really notices things like that, I could walk around with green hair and he would not notice. 

The mask provides an instant boost of hydration and protection around each hair cuticle to defend against environmental factors. 

I use this product around twice a week and that seems to be suffice to maintain my healthy shiny hair. 

Fruit Fusion Coconut Water Weightless Creme Rinse 

The creme rinse is a conditioner which provides shine and softens your hair. Again, it is such an amazing product that I use in between my hair mask days and it really does lock in the moisture. My hair has been noticeable, touchable soft and smooth, which has made styling it much easier and manageable. 

The price points are slightly more expensive then regular conditions: 

• Texture spray - £10.99
• Hair mask - £12.99
• Creme rinse - £10.99

I think they are work every penny and I will be buying again - this is quite a bold statement as when it comes to hair products I tend to purchase what is on special offer. However, when it comes to Shea Moisture I know the products really work and during my time of hormone imbalance it has helped me. Shea Moisture really know their customers and try to provide great products which are organic and use natural ingredients. The brand have a great ethos and support charitable organisations in undeserved communities both globally and locally.

Check out your local Boots now !!!!!!

B. Refreshed Essence Lotion

I have been using an essence for a couple of weeks, it has kindof slipped into my skincare regime, but I was worried that it may have been yet another step that may be unnecessary. My thoughts were right I have not really noticed any difference in my skin. It was a nice step but just not required. 

I am a massive fan of the B. products, and believe that it is another brand that is very underrated and I have never been disappointed with the products I have tried so far. 

The point of an essence is to provide a lightweight soothing lotion which soothes your skin instantly. However, with all of the other products I use within my regime I get that with them. 

This essence contains hyaluronic acid which moisturises deep down with the addition of algae extract which softens / smooths your skin. All of the products are dermatologically approved and ideal for all skin types.

For an essence you use it after cleansing, apply a couple of drops into your hand and pat into your face gently until it is fully absorbed. You can use it morning and night before applying your day or night cream.

I will of course continue to use this product until it is finished as I do feel it is a luxury add on, but I will not repurchase again. I would recommend to you all to check out the B. products here and the price point is just too good to be missed.

L'Oreal Colour Riche La Palette Lips - Nude

I am not the biggest fan of lip palettes in my personal life, I find them a bit of a faff and only use one or two of the colours in the palette. Worst of all, I hate lip brushes, I find them pointless and dated. However, in my professional life they have there place. When I saw L'Oreal had this palette available, initially I was reluctant to purchase it but after many many weeks of seeing it available in my local Superdrug I did take the plunge and purchase it. 

The colours are beautiful with the availability of two palettes this one and a red one, day to night. The formula is creamy and smooth you could use your finger to apply which is not always that easy or hygienic whilst you are out and about. In addition, although the palette is compact, I still have it in my mind that it is a faff and it is much easier to take a lipstick bullet out with you and more hygienic then this.

The colour pay off may not be everyone's cup of tea as you can see in my swatches. I am still in two minds whether I like this  product and I have the feeling it will be something that I will never agree on in my mind. This will be definitely joining my professional kit but personally, I just don't feel I will be reaching for it. Check out the palette here. 

Makeup Academy MUA Pixel Perfect Blush / Bronze

MUA Pixel Perfect Bronze / Blush 

MUA Pixel Perfect Multi Bronze - Terracotta Glow 

I adore the Makeup Academy range, although some of the products are not as great as expected there are other products that are simply amazing and you cannot believe that the products costs so little. The reason I get so put off MUA range is the state of the promotion stands are not usually in the best condition so usually end up ordering on line as that way I don't have to try and find unopened products. I know it is not just the Superdrug staff fault but, I wish in combination with customers and the staff the stands are tidy and clean as that way a lot more stock would be sold - rant over!

MUA Pixel Perfect Multi Blush - Peach Bloom

I have been recently loving a subtle blush look, these are perfect for that need. If you like a powerful blush then these will not be for you, but if you like a hint of a glow / blush / bronze then these are ideal. They are beautiful and are available in many shades including: -

• Sunseeker sheen 
• Coral spice 
• Pink blossom
• Cherry charm 

There will be a colour for all skin types and at £3.00 is simply a bargain. I would check these out now and they are available here.

Transformulas Marine Miracle Night Repair Serum

Throughout this year, I have been trying out numerous serum's I have a few favourites but, I have never found the one. Due to my skin being so spontaneous with being pregnant, I do believe I probably need to wait until after I have had the baby and my hormones have calmed before I make my final decision. 

Transformulas is one of my favourite brands at present, they really know their stuff and are passionate about providing the right skin care products to their customers at the right price. 

The serum provides prevention, preservation, repair and support for the skin. In addition, it is rich in Vitamin C and E together with oxygenated Almond Oil. I have been using this product for around a month and it has definitely provided stability to my skin and when I miss using it for a couple of days I do noticed the difference. When I start using the serum again, I noticed how "plump" my skin is and hydrated which are qualities I love. I have been using this product both day and night which aids hydration and brightening. 

This serum is suitable for all skin types and one I would recommend if you skin is having a crazy moment as it has really helped to calm everything down. This product costs  £41.95 which for a serum is a reasonable price and you use such a minimal amount that it is worth the money. This is one serum I would recommend to you all and is available here.

Asda Beauty Products Haul 2016

I know what you are thinking, she is doing a lot of hauls at the moment. There have been so many amazing beauty releases and I have recently had inspiration about the future of my blog - so, a lot of changes will be made in the future. In addition, the hubby has been looking after the little man so I have been able to go shopping on my own, which has meant I have been able to look more into the beauty product available. 

On a recent trip to ASDA I always have a look at the beauty products and noticed there was a lot of promotion around brow products and I was sucked in. Check out the ASDA website now for some amazing products currently available. 

I will of course report back to you on my thoughts and feelings of these products, stay tuned. 

The Tamer Brow Taming Gel (03 Brunette) 

The Tamer Eyebrow Kit 

The Tamer Brow Primer 

The Tamer 2 in 1 Lash Definer & Brow Tamer 

Essence Haul 2016

Essence Haul 

I had completely forgotten that Wilkos sold beauty products and my husband questioned how I can manage to find beauty products in the strangest places - you know what it is a hidden talent I can sniff out beauty products within a few miles radius. What can I say I am a beauty junkie. 

I don't think I have ever used any Essence products before but I know m fellow beauty bloggers have recommended products from the range and rave about the the quality and price point is just unmissable. 

So, here are the products I have recently purchased. I am going to give them a go and I will get back to you with my review on the items and whether they are any good. Check out the Wilko website for more products. 

Sheer and Shine Lipstick (12) Candy Love 

Sheer and Shine Lipstick (02) Cute Nude 

17 No Cream, No Sugar eyeshadow 

Mattifying Compact Powder (10) light beige 

I heart colour intensifying eyeshadow base 

20 Rosy Happiness eyeshadow