Category: Blog

Harvey Nichols – Rewards Autumn Beauty Gift 2017 – GWP(s)

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Hi Everyone

A short post to let you know that currently Harvey Nichols have a great Gift with Purchases available – An ‘Exclusive Rewards Autumn Beauty Gift’ worth over £700 FREE when you spend over £250 on three or more beauty products (while stocks last).  Please see photo below of what is in the free goody bag and the link here for further details.  It is one of their best GPW, maybe even their best.

To claim your gift in-store, simply show your Rewards by Harvey Nichols app at a till point (when you spend over £250 on three or more products) or  if you are shopping online, just sign into the MY HN section with your app details and the gift will be added at checkout when minimum spend is met (while stocks last).

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I understand it is a high value spend as always but if there are products you need, wanted to try, or have gifts you need to get especially as Christmas not too far away – good time to get them if you can, while this beautiful free gift with purchases goodie bag is available – from past experience the free gift does not last long.

Hope you found this useful.  If you are not a follower would love you to subscribe / follow my blog too – would mean a lot.

Thank you – take care.

Best Wishes Liz x

CREDIT – Insert Harveynichols.com

Review: My Little Box & ASOS – Oct 2017

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Hi Everyone

I hope you are all well – so hard to believe it is 31st October already.

 

I only received my October 2017 My Little Box end of last week,  received mine later this month.   This month’s box/bag has been created by My Little Box with ASOS  – As always the box, cards, print, packaging coordinated perfectly in line with the theme and a beautiful quote is back this month embossed on the inner lid of the outer cardboard box –  love this quote and agree with it totally we are all ‘Limited Edition / Special’, we just need reminded from time to time (see above).    The box costs £14.95 (inclusive of p&p) per month (but as said before always check to see if any offers on first, if thinking of subscribing).

 

This month instead of a box we received a beautiful large patterned gold toned zipped pouch which can be used to store so many different items – I love the design and it is a lovely quality bag.  Love this edition this month.  No booklet this month instead we got a double-sided card  which fits perfectly with theme.

 Included in this months ‘bag’ are:  

 

 A ‘My Little Box’  ASOS notebook–  love this addition as I cannot have too many notebooks and this one is so, so pretty.  Pages on one side are lined for your  ‘Thoughts’ and other side is plain for your  ‘Scribbles – perfect;

 

 

 

No ‘My Little Box’ drawstring smaller pouch again this month  – do not mind as the following FOUR ‘beauty’ items came inside the beautiful patterned larger pouch.

 


My Little Beauty Handcream (50ml) FULL SIZE  – love the matching design and again I can never have too many hand creams.  This one has a v light fragrance and feels lovely on the skin and sinks in really quickly, no greasy residue – would be perfect for your handbag but would need to use a heavier one at night as although feels good, personally does not keep my hands hydrated enough;

 


Nude by Nature Perfecting Primer (15ml) – Sample Size – this is an Australian brand and love their packaging.  I have tried this primer before and although this is a sample size still large enough sample to see if suitable.  It is a quite good primer and a nice base for applying makeup.  Although I find it a bit tacky at the beginning, tackiness does gradually disappear after few minutes as it sinks into your skin.  Does leave a nice glow to the skin but not sure about the perfecting element but will still use, just not sure would purchase;

 

Pureheals Propolis Rose Callus Sheet Mask – Moisturising & Shiny – always happy  when I see a sheet mask included, especially when I have never tried it before.    I have still to try this mask but sounds good, just not sure about the Rose element but hopefully not too rose fragranced.  It states;  their sheet masks have the added benefit of a three-layer technology that locks maximum levels of moisture into your skin – look forward to trying this weekend and if good will post a short review; and

 



ASOS Black Liquid Liner Full Size  £6 – so pleased to see this included as had recently seen that ASOS had launched their own beauty products and they were on my list to purchase so delighted first item I got to try is the eyeliner one of my favourite makeup items.  Love the simple black and pink packaging and felt-tip applicator makes it so easy to apply – lovely black line which I find lasts pretty well does smudge a bit initially but need to try for a longer period of time to confirm how good it is, as one thing I really dislike is looking in the mirror and finding your eyeliner is not where is should be!

 

We also received a little note-book 31 days off ‘Tone Up Your Creativity ideas’ – love the first ‘idea’ I seen below – which is so true.

 

I am delighted with this month’s  box / bag – love this new addition.  Also love all the products this month, four beauty items as well – personally a v good month for me.  Excellent value and although maybe another accessory item would have been nice I do not mind as v pleased with what I got.  Although  I am still hoping maybe next month / December we get either a scarf, gloves, socks etc as one of the accessory items to match the ‘season’.

Any queries / comments please let me know, also if you received this months ‘bag’ would love to know what you thought of it?

If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.  I will have more posts up tomorrow, later in the week

Enjoy today and the rest of the week.

Thank you & take care.

Best Wishes Liz x

Review: Glossybox UK October 2017

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Hi Everyone

 

I received my October Glossybox week before last but had not got a chance to go through the contents properly until now and although late wanted to let you know my thoughts as a few of my followers had asked me.    Glossybox is a  monthly beauty subscription box which costs £10.00 (plus p&p) per month and 3, 6 & 12 monthly subscriptions are also available.

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Five personalised beauty products are included each month which are normally sent wrapped in pink tissue paper with a black bow in the signature pink Glossybox but this month is one of the collector’s edition boxes – two different versions available this month; the Unicorn or the Mermaid – I received the Unicorn box – which is beautiful.  You can sign up through my referral link here  if you want and then you will get 20% off your first box when you subscribe.

Included in this months box is the usual product  / beauty information card  and the following five products:

Makeup Revolution Redemption Palette Mermaids VS Unicorns – Full Size £4 – not really a fan of Makeup Revolution eye shadows so although nice to get a full size palette and colours do look quite nice not going to use as going to give to my niece who I know will be v happy to get it;

 

Sleek Crème to Powder Blush in Gerbera (3.5g)  Full Size £5.99 – v happy to see a Sleek product included as have rediscovered a number of Sleek products recently and also recently tried their lip pencils for the first time and love them (I intend to do a separate post on Sleek products I love v soon).  A beautiful black palette with built-in mirror – very similar to Nars packaging and v good quality but a lot more reasonably priced.   Initially this colour looks very bright (orange / coral colour) but as it is a creamy formula it is very easy to blend as long as you do not use too much product – does give a lovely colour to the skin with a beautiful finish.   Impressed with this blush, number of different colours available online, and also love the packaging and definitely worth the price;
 
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Kawaii Enterprise Brush Cleansing Egg  Full Size £7.99 – this is cute and you just need to pop fingers inside the ‘egg’, wet brush and add a dash of liquid soap swirl brushes over the small nodules at top to lather and then remove the foam and product build up by running bristles down the deeper grooves which is also supposed to realign the brush hairs without damaging them – I have tried a few times and does work well and useful to have but would not be rushing out to purchase again as I find the small mat I got with my beauty blender cleanser is handier and works just as well, if not better-though still nice to get another full size item;




Lord & Berry Magic Brown Perfect Eye Brow Pencil (deluxe sample) Full Size  is £14 – I love lipsticks from this brand and this pencil looks the right colour for my eyebrows ‘brunette’ and is quite creamy does not ‘drag’ too much – however I am unable to try yet as only got my ‘micro blading’ done 10 days ago (intend to post a review about it shortly) and cannot use any makeup products on my brows for 14 days – however will try then and if I think it is good will do a separate review;

 

Bang Beauty Multi Purpose Cream Color in Dolce Pink (can be used as a Blusher, eyeshadow, highlighter & lip product) – Full Size £19.50 – Never heard of this brand before and this is another Full Size item so Glossybox are spoiling us this month.  I initially was a bit surprised that Glossybox included two blushes but as this can also be used a number of ways not too disappointed, although would still have prepared a different makeup item.  It has a lovely creamy consistency, is a beautiful rose gold/pink colour, does look well as a blusher and can be used on the lips and eyes but as it is not very pigmented think it is better as just a blush or highlighter – it is lovely applied on top of the Sleek blush as well.  It also feels a bit sticky when applied to the eyelids / lips but looks and feels ok just under the eyebrows.  Although a quite good natural blush and packaging is nice, I do not think it is worth £19.50 – I definitely would not purchase at this price – however still happy was included and was nice to try.

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This box is good value and it was nice to receive four full size items plus one deluxe sample this month (states brow pencil is full size on card but full size comes with a brush on one end).  I will also use four out of the five products which is better than a number of previous boxes.   Although  I do feel that it would have been even better if Glossybox had included a different makeup item instead of two blush type products.  As usual we also got a sneak peek of one product which we will receive in the November box (below).  As I said in the October Roccabox review I have been considering which monthly beauty box / boxes to cancel for a while but overall I am happy with Glossybox this month and as I am able to get next months box free, (have enough points to redeem – takes a while now) I will see what all the December boxes are like before I decide.

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*SPOILER* – November Sneak Peek – states this contour brush has incredibly soft short bristles for seamless contouring, highlighting and blending so makeup becomes a second skin.  Love trying different brushes so hopefully this one will be good.

 

In addition you can currently purchase a Limited Edition Beauty Case for £59.99 (free p&p & worth over £270), while stocks last – love the look of the reusable case although I see I already have a number of the items but as it is fantastic value I may still just have to get one (photo below).

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Look forward to any comments you may have – if you have received this month’s box would love to know what you thought.

If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.   I intend to have more posts up tomorrow and I am also going to do an Octobers favourites post as well, it will be up tomorrow or Wednesday.

Hope you all have a fantastic week and a lovely relaxing break if you are off.

Thank you and take care.

Best Wishes Liz x

Review: Modern Apothecary – Maison Apothecare Gel Cleanser, Facial Serum, Night Oil & Day Lotion

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Hi Everyone

I was delighted a few months back to v kindly receive four products from Modern Apothecary  to try *(PR sample); the Maison Apothecare Gel Cleanser, Brightening Facial Serum, Day Lotion and Brightening Night Facial Oil.    I had never tried anything from  this range before but had admired the packaging online so was delighted to get the opportunity to try – you can find out more details about the range here.  I had tried all products for a short period and took a break then tried again to see if results were the same – they were.

Love the packaging of all, it is sleek, practical but still vintage looking – they look good wherever you store them.

1.  Magical Gel Cleanser (60ml) – £29

Described as from nature and all natural:

  • Gentle gel cleanser used best at night-time to remove make up without any harsh chemicals;
  • Works great with facial cleansing devices;
  • Great for normal to oily skin;
  • Will leave skin feeling soft and hydrated;
  • Purifies pores while protecting the skin’s natural moisture barrier; and
  • Blend of ingredients contains sea buckthorn oil, coconut, green tea extract and vitamin E oil.
Results
This gel cleanser has a light natural  fragrance and a pump applicator which I prefer, when applied, massaged well onto skin, makeup is easily removed by rinsing a few times.  Although skin does feel smooth and pores around the nose area do appear more refined my skin felt a little ‘tight’ after using, have tried  a number of times with a break between as well and each time have had the same results.  My skin does not feel hydrated, need to apply moisturiser immediately afterwards.   I have combination skin so I feel this product would be better for someone with an oilier skin.  Therefore although is a good enough cleanser will not be purchasing as not as good for me personally as my L’Occitane Cleansing Oil- you can see my earlier review here.

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Described as:

  • This light and nourishing moisturiser is perfect for morning use and helps to prevent moisture loss throughout the day;
  • Our plant derived lotion is great for all skin types including sensitive and mature skin;
  • Helps improve skin texture and clarity, the natural way; and
  • Our blend of natural ingredients – Vitamin E oil, hemp seed oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, aloe leaf extract, Japanese green tea extract, Rose essential oil and rosemary essential oil – wow, will enhance any type of skin.
Results
Pump applicator as well.  This creamy lotion again has a slight spa like fragrance and one to two pumps is enough and sinks into skin so easily with no greasy residue, initially skin feels a little sticky but within a few minutes this disappears and skin then feels smooth and looks refreshed  with a slight glow, skin also felt hydrated.   I found this a lovely base for applying a light foundation / tinted moisturiser, but prefer a thicker moisturiser for a medium to heavier foundation.   I do think this moisturiser is suitable for all skin tones, ages but anyone with v dry skin may still prefer a thicker moisturiser – my favourite product out of the four – definitely would consider purchasing this moisturiser in the future;

3.  Brightening Facial Serum (30ml) – £38


Described for:

  • Use on both the neck and face;
  • Fast absorbing serum is great for night-time use;
  • Acts as an exfoliator and will help remove dead skin cells and help to resurface your skin; and
  • Improves the appearance of uneven skin tone.
Results
This has a dropper applicator and two drops is enough for the neck and face.  I applied at night after cleansing although initially feels oily on the skin it does absorb quite well into the skin, but would not say is fast absorbing.  It leaves a lovely glow to the skin and in the morning my skin did appear fresher and skin felt smoother as well but still not sure about the exfoliating element as still needed to use my normal exfoliator as well to get the results I wanted.  Although I do think it is a good night-time serum, I did not get any better results with it than my Antipodes Divine Face Oil (RRP £21.99 which I also use on my neck – you can see my earlier review here) and it is cheaper so that is the only reason will not be purchasing in the future.


Described as:

  • Heal, soothe and replenish your skin;
  • This miracle oil won’t leave your face feeling greasy but hydrated and moisturised.  It can be used on all types of skin and helps with texture and uneven skin tone  Wake up and the work will have been done all whilst you were fast asleep; and
  • Blend of jojoba seed oil, sea buckthorn oil, neroli flower oil and Vitamin E oil.
Results
This also has a dropper applicator and found one drop is enough for the face.  I used both by itself and over the brightening serum above and although found it left my skin glowing, looking refreshed and results better when both serums combined.  I found used both ways the serum did not completely absorb left an oily slightly greasy residue.  Once again although a nice serum and results good, I did not get any better results with this serum, or both combined, than with my Antipodes Divine Face Oil so that is only reason will not be purchasing.

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Top is the magical day lotion, next brightening facial serum, night brightening facial oil and then last is the gel cleanser.

Overall

Although I enjoyed using all the products, results good and would consider purchasing the Magical Day Lotion, overall the products are quite expensive, particularly the Brightening Night Facial Oil compared to similar products I already use and love and achieve the same or slightly better results with (cleanser).    However as they are good products, I did enjoy using them and they are still not as expensive as similar products from other brands, would still recommend checking out the range of products for yourself especially if you have not yet managed to get the results you want from similar products.

You can check out,  see more from the  Modern Apothecary / Maison Apothecare range via the link here.

Look forward to any comments you may have.   Have you tried any products from this range before?

If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.  Will have more posts up later today or tomorrow.

Thank you – take care and hope you have a great week.

Best Wishes Liz x

*PR Samples

Review: Roccabox October 2017

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Hi Everyone

 

I received  my October Roccabox beauty box last week, a bit later than usual but as I have now got a chance to try most of the products wanted to let you know my initial thoughts on the box/contents.

Roccabox is a monthly subscription beauty box which costs £10 a month (plus £3.95 p&p).   Each month you’ll receive a box of beauty treats hand-picked by one of the industry’s best-loved personalities / influencer, along with their top beauty hints and tips – for more details please see link here.  This month Roccabox have teamed up Daisie Smith and you can check out her blog here.

Products came packaged  in an outer white box with rose gold lettering  as usual and an information leaflet is also included (photo below).

This month’s box contained the following five items:

Yes to Cucumber Sleeping Mask – (calming sleep mask for sensitive skin) one mask  RRP£2.99  – have used products from this brand before and found them ok but had not heard of this particular product – this is the one item that I have not tried yet – states: apply mask all over face, tuck yourself in and let mask do all the work while you sleep and you will wake up to a clean pillow and beautiful skin – sounds good, going to try over the weekend and if results impressive will do a separate review;

Vita Liberata Mini Body Blue Instant HD Skin Finish (sample size 7ml – medium) – 100ml is approx. £29.95 but currently reduced to £19.65 in Superdrug- I had heard so much about this product but had not got around to trying until now.  It is a wash off ‘tan – body makeup’ type product designed to give coverage to any imperfections such as bruising, spider veins. even cellulite.  I am loving this creamy product already, so easy to apply with your hands and gives a subtle glowing tan, great applied with a brush to your arms, legs collar bones for added colour and also so easy to apply on your hands as well.  Only downside it does transfer to clothing, bedding however I have found if you apply and leave for at least a half an hour transfer to clothing is not as much.  Medium is a good colour for me too even though I have very fair skin.   Will do a separate review when get a chance to try properly as have already purchased full size.   Also if  the Superdrug offer is over if you decide to purchase you can get 20% on www.vitaliberata.co.uk when you use the code VITALIBERATA20 until 31.12.17.  V happy this was included but would have loved a larger sample as this is my favourite item out of the box;

 

Bliss Fabulous Makeup Melt  (sample size 45ml) –  125ml is £24.00  – I love the feel of this slight citrus fragrant gel-to-oil cleanser on the skin, so easy to massage over all the face including eye area, then just need to rinse off to remove.  I  needed to massage a bit more on the eye area, but did remove all makeup and left my skin feeling clean and looking refreshed.  Although states should not leave skin dry my skin does feel slightly ‘tight’ after using but need to try for a longer period of time to confirm.  Nice inclusion and travel size cleansers are always useful;

 

Buxom Lash Mascara (sample size 6ml) – 11ml is £16 –  Good strong colour and although I found it is long-lasting with no fall out, does not lengthen my lashes as much as my Mac mascara,  packaging quite bulky as well.  Although will still use as an everyday mascara, will not be purchasing.

Milani HD Advanced Lip Color – FULL SIZE RRP £4.99 – love the black and gold packaging – need to twist up to apply.  I received ‘Cotton Candy’ a beautiful bubble gum pink colour with a slight glimmer, does have a beautiful ‘candy/ sweet’ fragrance as well.  States is a ‘3-in-1 lip colour that hydrates and nourishes lips while giving a long-lasting highly pigmented colour wash’.  It definitely feels nourishing on the lips, non drying and has good pigmentation that does last well.  Will definitely use and although shimmer not too overpowering would prefer it without.  Glad this is a full size item and would consider purchasing in a different colour.

 

Overall I am quite happy with the contents of this months box, again not one of my favourite boxes but still a relatively good selection of products and brands, happy to see more makeup items this month but still hoping next month’s box is even better.

Would love to know if you are already subscribed to this box, what you thought of this month’s box?

If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot and be v much appreciated.    I will have more posts up over the weekend.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Thank you – take care.

Best Wishes Liz x

Kiehl’s ‘Recycle & Be Rewarded Scheme’

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Hi Everyone

In case you are not aware, wanted to let you know about the Kiehl’s  ‘Recycle & Be Rewarded Scheme’ – When you return empty Kiehl’s ‘full size’ containers to a Kiehl’s ‘standalone store’  you can receive complimentary ‘Free’ travel-sized products.  Just ask for  a ‘stamp’  card in store (see below), then when you return any empty Kiehl’s full size product you will get one stamp per empty product returned and when you have collected 10 stamps you can choose a free travel sized product.   States ‘deluxe samples and complimentary products can be returned for recycling as well  but do not warrant a stamp’.  You can find out more details about the recycle reward scheme here.

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I understand it may take a while to complete a stamp card but it is still a great way to be rewarded for recycling especially if you purchase a lot of Kiehl’s products already.   I got my 10th stamp at the weekend and chose the ‘New’ Crème de Corps Nourishing Dry Body Oil (75ml) – great way to try as already love their  cream in this range – will post a review when I get a chance to try properly.

 

Love to know if you have managed to get any products through this recycle reward scheme yet.  If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.

Thank you – take care.

Best Wishes Liz x

* Inserts – credit Kiehls.co.uk

Benefit Cosmetics – FREE Mascara Sample ‘Trade In’ Offer

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Hi Everyone

Hope you all had another great weekend.

A quick post to let you know Benefitcosmetics.com/uk have another great ‘Trade In’ offer on at the moment at House of Fraser stores with a Benefit counter.

 

Currently you can get a FREE ‘Roller Last Mascara’ (3.0g deluxe sample) to try when you take any old full size mascara, from any brand, to a benefit counter at House of Fraser.   The sales assistant will just take your mascara from you and in return with give you your free sample (generous sample size – photo below).   I think this offer is due to end on 29th October 2017, or while stocks last  so the quicker you can get into your nearest House of Fraser Benefit counter the more chance the sample will still be available – great way to try products from the Benefit Cosmetics range.

 

Hope this helps – love to know if you have already got your ‘FREE’ sample to try or when you do.

Thank you for looking  and look forward to any comments you may have – if you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.  Will have more posts up later today and during the week.

Take care – Hope you all have a great week.

Best wishes Liz x

Review: The Ordinary ‘Serum’ & ‘Coverage’ Foundations

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Hi Everyone

Although the IT Cosmetics  Full Coverage Your Skin But Better CC cream with SPF 50+ is currently my favourite foundation – please see my earlier review here.  As there had / is so much hype about The Ordinary Foundations; the ‘Serum’ & the ‘Coverage’ Foundations, when I seen Beautybay.com had both in stock I decided to purchase both versions as they are so reasonably priced at £5.75 & £5.95 – both also have SPF 15.   Both foundations are available in a number of shades (when in stock) –  I ordered the shade 1.2P (light with pink undertones) as seemed the nearest to my skin tone.

The ‘Serum‘ Foundation 30ml – RRP £5.75  SPF 15 – is described as: a lightweight serum formula – which provides ‘light’ coverage.  A serum-textured natural coverage foundation that softens undesirable hues and visibly reduces imperfections.

Directions:

Shake before use.  Dispense a small amount…..smooth on and blend throughout the face.



Packaging & Results

Both the foundations come in a hard plastic bottle with matt black top (although would prefer a non-matt top as so much easier to keep clean but this is only a minor point) and practical pump applicator which I prefer with foundations as I personally feel they are more hygienic and in most cases avoids too much wastage.  There is a slight ‘clinical’ type fragrance of the foundation but it is not overpowering.  The serum has a runny but light creamy consistency and when you apply it to your face it blends so easily (colour looks a bit strange at first), I found it applied / blended better with my beauty blender and finger tips rather than a brush.  It has a tinted moisturiser type finish  and although definitely a light coverage you can also build coverage up slightly;  I also found concealer blended so easily over it.

Although you need to use concealer to cover any blemishes, skin definitely appears more flawless, more refreshed, with a natural slight dewy finish, although not ‘greasy’ looking.  Does not settle into any fine lines, also blends so easily that ‘pores’ appear less noticeable, is long-lasting with a finishing powder and is the perfect base for applying an overall bronzer and although would prefer a heavier coverage for a night out I think this would be a perfect everyday ‘light’ foundation.  Shade 1.2P is a perfect match for my light skin tone as well.  Would definitely recommend trying for yourselves especially if you prefer a light coverage foundation / tinted moisturiser as this a really good one and is excellent value for money.    At this stage think I will repurchase.

 

The ‘Coverage‘ Foundation 30ml – RRP £5.95  SPF 15 – described as: a high-coverage foundation formula that provides ‘full’ coverage.  A high-coverage creamy foundation that softens undesirable hues. 

Directions:

Shake before use.  Dispense a small amount…..smooth on and blend throughout the face.



Packaging & Results

Has similar packaging and fragrance as the ‘Serum’  but with a thicker creamy consistency and when you apply to your face it does take a bit longer to blend, I found it again applied / blended better with my beauty blender and finger tips rather than a brush.  It definitely does have a heavier coverage but I would say is more a medium to full coverage as you still need to build it up to cover heavier blemishes, imperfections.    As with most foundations you still need to apply concealer over heavier imperfections, but skin definitely does appear more flawless with ‘non raised’ imperfections definitely less noticeable.   It also has a beautiful satin finish and is long lasting.

The only issue for me personally I found the foundation settled in my pores around the nose area and on raised minor ‘blemishes’, made them even more noticeable, even with primer or however much I blended so found the best way for me to wear was to avoid the nose area, any raised blemishes and apply my normal foundation on these areas and this foundation everywhere else and blend all together which is not the ideal solution but it was / is workable.  Again the shade 1.2P is a perfect match for my light skin tone as well.    If you prefer a medium / heavier coverage foundation I would definitely recommend trying for yourselves as it is excellent value especially if you are lucky and have no ‘pore’ / raised blemishes issues.    I will continue to use this myself with my IT Cosmetic foundation, however as I prefer having a foundation that addresses all my concerns without having to do a ‘workaround’ not sure I will be repurchasing in the near future even though it is good value for money.  I feel this foundation is slightly comparable to the ‘Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation, not quite as heavy and initially not as full coverage but is buildable.

Both foundations are definitely worth trying as so reasonably priced.  You can purchase in  a number of stores, when in stock, including Beautybay.com  (but not many colours left in stock at the moment) and Victoriahealth.com.

Look forward to any comments you may have – have you tried either / both of The Ordinary Foundations already, if so, love to know what you think?   If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.

Thank you – take care and hope you have a great week.

Best Wishes Liz x

Review: Birchbox October 2017

4 Comments

Hi Everyone

I received my ‘Feeling Good’ October 2017 Birchbox last week.    In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month Birchbox is working with the charity CoppaFeel this month – do love the design of the box this month.

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Birchbox is a monthly subscription box which costs £12.95 (inclusive of p&p) per month and 3, 6 & 12 monthly subscriptions are also available.  Usually five personalised beauty treats are included each month.

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This month every subscriber either received a ModelCo Treat – subscribers were / are able to choose either a contour stick or a mascara, a Balance Me Pure Skin Face Wash  and a Birchbox Exclusive  Anatomicals Grap Your Melons Shower Gel.   A product  / beauty information booklet, a code for £10 off a £50 spend (see below) and the following three products were also included in my box:

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Anatomicals ‘boob tube grab your melons’ shower gel in Bomb Shell (50ml- FULL SIZE RRP £1.50)  – have received a number of Anatomicals products before in beauty boxes and although have used them, have not been that impressed that have went on to purchase any of them – however this shower gel does smell refreshing and a shower gel is always useful and handy size as well for travelling;

Nuxe 48hr Moisturising Cream for Normal Skin   (Sample Size – 15ml) – Full Size is 50ml RRP £26 – a number of Nuxe products in beauty boxes recently – this cream does feel lovely on skin and has a citrus fragrance, sinks into skin really quickly and skin does feel soft after using but need to use for a longer period of time to give a full review – my favourite product from the Nuxe range is the Nuxe Multi Huile Prodigieuse OR Multi-Usage Dry Oil Shimmer;

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Balance Me Pure Skin Face Wash (Sample size 40ml) – Full size RRP £16 for 125ml – there has been so many Balance Me products in beauty boxes over the last year or so that when I see them in boxes now I am not really excited.  I had tried this previously and although did cleanse my skin ok, was not overly impressed, just not as good as a lot of other cleansers, oils I have used so have not opened this one and will give to a friend to try;

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ModelCo Contour Stick (2.1g – think may be deluxe sample as states RRP £8 on card and £13 on site) – this is a creamy contour stick with a ‘sweet’ fragrance – when you apply it first it has a orangey / brown colour which does not look that great but does blend out ok as long as you do not apply too much.  Undecided about it yet need to use for a longer period of time to give a full review, colour and packaging may be putting me off a little. 
 
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R+CO Badlands Dry Shampoo Paste (sample size 7.1g)  – Full Size RRP £22 for 62g/22oz – although initially not sure about this product as do not really like dry shampoos as I do not feel my hair is clean if I do not wash it every day.  This product does smell divine and it can also be used on damp hair before blow-drying for a volume boost.  I have used a few times prior to blow drying and my fine hair did appear ‘fuller’ without being ‘sticky’ and with a lovely fragrance as well but again need to try for a longer period of time to give a full review.  Although need very little product would have been better if a larger deluxe size sample had been included.  However this may be a product I will purchase.

 *SPOILER* – November Sneak Peek – states that next month’s selection of beauty treats have been handpicked from the Vogue 100 Beauty Hall of Fame – chosen by Vogue Beauty Editors past and present. 


Although this months box was not my favourite box and I was slightly disappointed, it still was good value for money.  However I have been thinking of unsubscribing as have not been overly excited about a number of recent boxes and have so many products to use up (the August box was the best for me recently), but because of next months theme and high expectations for the Christmas box I am going to wait till after the December box to make up my mind whether to unsubscribe or not.

 

If you are thinking of  subscribing to Birchbox UK – you can get £5 off your first box -(box is normally £10 +£2.95 shipping – you will get for £5 +£2.95 shipping) by clicking  link here and then copy and paste code at checkout to get your discount.    You can also get a free  rose gold Spectrum Collections brush when you order your October Birchbox  (*photo below),  just add the code MARBLE at checkout to get free gift.4d9df0899b944772b9233cf428a53013

Look forward to any comments you may have – if you have received this month’s box would love to know what you thought.

If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.

Thank you – enjoy the remainder of the weekend – more posts will be up later today /tomorrow.

Best Wishes Liz x

* Credit Insert Photo Spectrum Brush – Birchbox.co.uk

Review: Seoulista Beauty ‘Instant Facial’ Sheet Masks

2 Comments

Hi Everyone

I was delighted recently to v kindly receive four Seoulista Beauty ‘Instant Facial’ Sheet Masks (RRP £7.99 each) to try *(PR sample).    I had never heard about the range so was intrigued – you can find out more details here.

States, Seoulista Beauty Instant Facials are free from parabens, mineral oil, sulphates and artificial colours.  Each packet contains one face mask and as usual you  cleanse your face thoroughly first, then you are advised to remove face mask from packaging, unfold, and peel off protective film.  Press the mask to your face and peel off the outer layer (this is the same for all the masks with the exception of the charcoal one, no backing to remove, a cloth style mask), then smooth to fit facial contours. Allow the serum to infuse for 20 minutes before removing. Do not wash off. Smooth the remaining serum into the skin.

I am going to let you know the results I got with each mask underneath each one – however going to include a full summary at bottom of what I actual thought of the masks themselves.

1. Brightening



Described as:

  • Naturally derived coconut mask infused with vitamin C & AHA’s;
  • exfoliates & hydrates the skin;
  • contains antioxidants to fade & repair dark spots & pigmentation; and
  • correct & brightens your skin tone
Results
Off white mask – Did feel refreshing on my skin, no irritation and did leave my skin feeling hydrated and looking brighter but would not say really helped to exfoliate my skin and unable to judge if fades and repairs dark spots & pigmentation as I am lucky and do not have either.  But I was happy that I could use the extra serum in the packet to treat my neck & hands as well.  May purchase this mask.

2.  Super Hydration



Described as:

  • Naturally derived coconut mask infused with hyaluronic acid;
  • intensely hydrating & instantly plumping;
  • contains antioxidants to defend against ageing; and
  • improves skin elasticity, smoothness & radiance.
Results
Off white mask – Also felt refreshing on skin and I did feel that this mask was working more on my skin, a v slight tingling feeling but not uncomfortable.  My skin did look more radiant and refreshed after I removed it and my skin did feel lovely and soft, not sure about the plumping element though. Again able to use the extra serum in the packet to treat my neck & hands as well.    Will purchase this mask.


3. Correct & Calm



Described as:

  • Naturally derived coconut mask infused with witch hazel and eucalyptus leaf;
  • perfect for minor breakouts;
  • irritation & redness;
  • cools, hydrates & balances skin; and
  • helps to minimise large pores.
Results
Off white mask – Felt cooling on skin and did feel this mask was working on my skin as well but again not uncomfortable.  My skin did feel cleaner, hydrated and a slight blemish did seem less irritated, however pores round my nose did not look any different / minimised, but again able to use the extra serum in the packet to treat my neck & hands as well.  Not sure I will purchase this mask.

4. Charcoal Detox



Described as:

  • Naturally derived bamboo mask infused with charcoal & volcanic ash;
  • frees skin from toxins & impurities;
  • rich in minerals to deep cleanse & hydrate the skin;
  • helps to refine skin & minimise pore size.
Results
Black cloth type mask felt more comfortable on the skin, my favourite out of the four.  This one also fitted better and I could have relaxed and kept it on for longer.  My skin did feel it had got a deeper cleanse but also still felt hydrated.   Pores round the nose also appeared less noticeable.  Will definitely purchase this mask.

 

Overall

There was a slight fragrance of all of the masks but none were overpowering, there is a lot of serum on the masks & inside the packet which is great but makes it quite difficult to remove the backing prior to and after applying the mask to your face. Mask does smooth down ok and fits quite well but not just as good a fit as some other sheet masks I have tried, (this was the same for all the masks with the exception of the charcoal one).  I preferred the charcoal mask on my skin as felt more comfortable and could have left on longer period of time, the other three I was happy when it was time to remove them as just could not relax the same with them.

For each mask it states not to wash off smooth remaining serum into skin and wait 30 minutes before applying makeup – however for me personally this was not possible skin still felt too tacky uncomfortable for applying makeup over.  I found it better and would recommend applying any of the masks in the evening prior to bed and then you can just smooth any remaining serum into the skin and let it work overnight and rinse off in the morning again.

Although I enjoyed trying all the masks, they are reasonably priced, perfect for travelling and would recommend trying for yourself there are only two of them I would definitely go out and purchase now, the Charcoal & the Super Hydration but that is just personal choice so you may prefer one of the others more.

Your can purchase from a number of stores, including Gordonsdirect.com – for a list of stockists please see link here.

Look forward to any comments you may have.   If you are not already a follower would love you to follow my blog too – would mean a lot.  Will have more posts up over the weekend.

Thank you – take care and hope you have a great weekend.

Best Wishes Liz x

*PR Sample