...OxfordJasmine...

Smells, smells, smells.

2011-12-03T12:24:00.005Z

Smells; it's all about smells. Some women crave food, I crave smells. Notably the following:

LUSH - Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter. Mr OJ often rolls his eyes at the frequency I am found with my nose in a tub of LF. At £6 for a 50g it's a bargain nail treatment which really does work to keep cuticles nourished and dry bits at bay. I use this most nights and revel in the lovely lemony/lavender scent.

Liz Earle Nourishing Botanical Body Cream. I adore the fresh and uplifting scents in the body range. From the shower gels to this rich and gorgeous body cream. Really good for bumps and all over feel good factor. You can use it after dry body brushing (which did help keep cellulite at bay during the early months of pregnancy when exercising was difficult. Pregnancy doesn't require much of a circulation boost as your circulation is already pretty pumped up having to cope with a baby growing inside too. With prices starting from £4.75 for a travel size, it's a great treat for weekends away (or going in to hospital!).

Tisserand Intensive Hand and Nail Cream. This is my biggest addiction. However, I feel I should qualify this as whenever I use this (for example sitting in a doctors waiting room) everyone seems to like it and even look around to see where it is coming from. One receptionist asked what it was! Even Mr OJ says that when I use it in the car and he gets in, he notices and says that "something smells nice". Which is high praise indeed. I can often be found with my face in my hands (not crying) but inhaling deeply the gorgeous essential oils. There are far too many to mention. At around £7 for a generous handbag sized tube (75ml), it's an absolute bargain and a delight to use. It lasts months and I repurchase time and time again. But I warn you, it's highly addictive!

Jonathan Ward candles, I don't need to tell you how much I adore Jonathan's candles. I own more than my fair share but they have been marvellous. I wish I could take one with me to hospital (perhaps I shall sneak in some tea lights)

Since I have gestational diabetes I can't mention the normal cravings of chocolate, cake and icecream which I would love to indulge in! Although, I can have them sometimes, probably less than the average non-diabetic! I suspect that my other senses are trying to compensate as I also adore using bright and bold make up and nail wraps! I think pregnancy heightens all of your senses so it's been a great time to experiment with new products.

Do you have any weird addictions (to legal substances) or pregnancy cravings that you'd like to share?

4 weeks to go and counting, plus a skincare review

2011-11-24T12:11:00.003Z

Firstly, I am so sorry to have neglected by blog, YouTube is one thing to neglect through sheer lack of time and energy to film, edit and upload, but I am annoyed that I let my blog slip!

So as the title suggests, I have exactly four weeks to go to my due date. Which in reality means 2-6 weeks before our little girl arrives! Complications mean that if I don't go in to labour on my own, I will be induced around Christmas day! This is highly unappealing as I was hoping to be tucked up with baby on the sofa with a box of Roses on Christmas Day. However she arrives, it will be a blessing and I will soon forget the method of extraction!

Anyway, I have lots to review and tell you about in later posts. I will desperately try not to leave it so long next time.

In the mean time, I leave you with a little review of a skin care product I purchased a few months ago. NUDE skincare cleansing oil, 100ml. A link to the product range is here. I normally use a cleansing oil (Dermalogica Precleanse which I purchase from John and Ginger (it is about £5 cheaper and their UK shipping is fast). I have used Precleanse for about 3 years and thought I might see what else there was on offer.

Now I must first say that I am LAZY which is why I use cleansing oils. They are on the whole thorough, non messy and quick. I want a product which does not require a separate eye make up remover and emulsifies with water so that I don't get a dirty wash cloth covered in make up. Those are my two must haves.

NUDE skincare delivers on one of these criteria - namely that it turns to a milk when warm water is applied. However, I have found on a few occasions that eye make up is not removed and ends up all over my towels and bedlinen. I am no newbie when it comes to cleansing and I am thorough but this is too gentle to remove all make up. I am not even talking about waterproof make up, just run-of-the-mill mascara and liner. More than a few times I have woken in the night with streaming bloodshot eyes from recalcitrant eye make up!

At £19 for 100ml it is more expensive than Dermalogica Precleanse (approx £20 for 150ml), however, the added cost are associated with the organic nature of the ingredients. I hate this trend but I believe you get what you pay for and so I like to pay for good quality ingredients.

The NUDE skincare oil cleanser is certainly more portable in its pink rubbery secure bottle but you do have to use it twice to get a thorough cleanse. The scent is neither off putting or appealing, a kind of floral oily scent. So far it hasn't made me stop using it (even during pregnancy)

Other than not taking off eye make up properly in one go, I can't fault NUDE cleansing oil. My skin loves the slightly thicker feeling oil and doesn't feel dry once rinsed. It's a very good skin massage oil, so I like to combine a facial massage with my cleanse. My natural skin texture and oil level has not been affected and I no longer have dry spots or blocked pores around the nose. I really do believe in being gentle and kind with flare ups. Aggresive treatments are best left alone until all else has failed.

Will I repurchase though? Sadly I don't think so, the difference in price and performance is not significant enough to make me switch permanently. I am really glad I tried it and would recommend it if you weren't a make up wearer as it's gentle and will benefit all skin types.

Pregnancy Massage at Calcot Spa.

2011-10-18T16:05:00.009+01:00

A welcome distraction from the impending birth of my first child and the news I had been given the day before that due to gestational diabetes I would need to be induced early, was a trip to Calcot Manor and the Spa. I was feeling low about this as I had really wanted a natural labour. One where I could potter about at home, my husband and I could work through the contractions until we were ready to go to the hospital. But alas it is not to be, having taken in the news I have decided to concentrate on the positive aspects of an induction. That is, if it works, a hopefully short labour and we will know the date of her arrival. We will have her home in time for Christmas where we can celebrate as a real family together.

So I'd like to say a big thank you to Aromatherapy Associates for providing me with the opportunity to experience Calcot Spa and a pregnancy massage. I have had several pregnancy massages prior to this one so it was lovely to compare them. I don't know if it's just the stage I am at, but this one was by far the best I've had so far.

Set in beautiful manicured grounds just outside of Tetbury, Gloucestershire, the Spa is nestled behind the main manor where guests and visitors can relax in a tranquil setting. For the adventurous there is an outside hot tub, but for the less inclined, a beautiful indoor pool awaits you. My advice is to use it before your treatment as you'll be far too snug and relaxed to want to swim about.

I arrived characteristically flustered and just on time (thank you to UK Mail who never turned up with my delivery of a sink - how glamorous) So I was taken straight to the treatment room (pictured below).

I had the pregnancy massage which was an hour of body massage and a mini facial using Aromatherapy Associates pregnancy safe products from the Rose collection. Having used these products during my pregnancy I felt happy that I wasn't going to have any reactions or worries about ingredients. I have most of these products already but it is 100 times better having someone else massage them in! At nearly 8 months pregnant I am in the stage whereby even bending over is a challenge for my poor back and knees! This massage was divine and specifically designed for pregnant ladies. The back massage was performed with me on my side with a bolster to cuddle and a heated under blanket meant I nearly drifted off to sleep. I had to wonder whether I could use this in labour to relax, if only I could teach Mr OJ to massage as well. I guess it's not too late to get him trained up?

The staff were all very friendly and helpful, not because I was a reviewer or because I am pregnant but I could see them interacting with others in the same way. After the massage I was taken to the chill out area (pictured below) where I could (if I were not pregnant) use the sauna and steam room. So instead I read magazines and sipped on cucumber water. Downstairs is a little restaurant where a group of mothers were chatting and breast feeding happily. It's definitely a child friendly place as it also has a crèche facility if you'd like to slip off for a treatment or meal during the day. But it does have a grown up feel about it, smart and spacious, which is nice for mums as I get sick of coffee house decor and high footfall grubbiness.

Find out more about Calcot Spa by visiting their website, there is also a downloadable treatment and price list. I also purchased a few products whilst there to stock up on Aromatherapy Associates Nourishing facial oil (£39 for 15ml - which lasts about 6 months with intensive use), which I am running low. I can't live without this facial oil! I would also recommend the Rose Body cream, my skin felt very soft but not greasy afterwards. It's perfect for expanding tummies and puffy ankles. I am also already planning my next visit with some non-pregnant and pregnant friends so that we can enjoy the relaxing and warm atmosphere of the Spa together.

Do you have a favourite place, doesn't have to be a spa, that relaxes and recharges you?

Pregnancy skincare tips

2011-10-11T13:30:00.004+01:00

This post has been asked for many times over the last few months so it is the least I can do. It seems I am not the only one who has suffered with insufferable skin over the first few months of pregnancy. Crossing fingers and toes that I have reached an agreement with my skin, I've prepared a few tips for you.

My skin became very dry so I switched to using a facial oil during the day and night (normally I just wore it at night). If your skin does the opposite and becomes oily, consider adding a toner to your routine (I don't use a toner as I don't use cream cleanser but a damp muslin cloth) which will help remove excess oil without increasing production. Also reduce the amount of moisturiser and keep it to areas which need it.

My skin also broke out a lot, but not in white heads but just painful bumps under the skin. These types of spots were generally reserved for pre-period spots. The only thing I could do to alleviate the pain was to use a cold compress to keep the swelling and itching down. I also applied copious amounts of aloe vera gel.

The other reason for naff skin was coping with stress. And it is stressful being pre-3 months pregnant and being advised not to tell everyone! So you're stuck with this wonderful news but too scared to tell anyone! I had to wait until I knew that the baby was viable and over the danger time for spontaneous abortion and that it was more likely to survive.

There is little you can do about reducing your stress levels when outside events cannot be ignored or controlled. My husband and family rallied around to help me. My sister would visit and cook healthy meals (I had been surviving on cereal and toast at this point) and to generally cheer me up. Don't go through it alone and don't be afraid to lean on people a bit, they won't mind.

Let's also not underestimate the power of morning sickness, which thankfully ebbed away at 4 and a half months. At this point I was literally on my knees, desperate for it to end. Three and a half months of feeling and looking like death was enough for me!

On the occasions I did have to venture out and socialise I have some tips for make up:

Concealer is your best friend - for those insomnia dark circles and hormone spots.

Radiance enhancers - contrary to popular belief, there is no pregnancy glow, just more redness on the cheeks to cover up. I used a foundation by Daniel Sandler which has shimmery pigments in the formulation. It makes for a subtle glow all day and evening.

Blusher is really good for warming up a sickened and wan complexion. Choose something subtle and a few shades deeper than your natural cheek blush. If you don't know what this is then pinch your cheeks to increase blood flow and note the type of colour you get.

If you're not up to wearing a lot of eye make up then a subtle sweeps of something shimmery and of the taupe variety does for all occasions. Then add mascara. I decided to make my own eye shadow from the various pigments I had lying around. Cold pressed with alcohol it resembles a shimmery cream/brown which suits everyone. I really should market it...

Avoid perfumed glosses, nothing is going to make you feel more ill. If you like menthol/minty lip glosses then these are good for staving off morning sickness (which lasts all day I might add).

I am now just over 7 months pregnant (where did the time go?) and after a few months of feeling relatively normal and forgetting half the time I was pregnant, I am definitely starting to slow down.

I hope these tips are useful to you, either to prepare you for your pregnancy or if you're in the early stages and wondering who switched your skin over whilst you were asleep!

Faux Snakeskin Nails

2011-09-26T12:07:00.000+01:00

If you want something snazzier than greige this Autumn, I recently wore these grey snakeskin design instant manicure nail wraps. I've had them for a few months and always thought they were a bit too showy for every day wear. I am not brave enough for animal print nails for an every day look.

However, this Autumn I plucked up courage to wear them and now they have become a favourite. I feel a bit of a prude for overlooking them for so long, and a bit silly as they've received so many compliments.

The best thing I like about this design is that they just work with every outfit and occasion. I just prefer them to nail polish, which is why I haven't reviewed any nail polish for the longest time. I don't feel like wearing it and when I do it chips within a nanosecond or smudges!

So my advice this Autumn if you're not quite ready for bold colours, is to go with this sort of design, it speaks volumes in terms of style. It certainly beats the latest craze sweeping the US for using naturally shed snakes skin embedded in clear polish or gel nails.

Available from Rebel Nails for £7.99 per set for fingers or toes.

These nails were reviewed as a PR sample.

My stress-free make up choices for every day

2011-09-09T12:30:00.015+01:00

I thought you might like to see my current day to day make up. If you have a collection of make up, it can be a daunting in the morning deciding which items to choose. I find it a bit paralysing and sometimes I just need to grab what I need and will perform well.

So let's start with the face!

Foundation versus tinted moisturiser? That depends on the weather, how my skin feels and where/what I am doing during the day. This Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint is only used on days when my skin is super clear as it offers no coverage but used sparingly is a nice SPF15 moisturiser. My advice with this product is to figure out the threshold amount to use, because if you are generous with this product you will end up with, as GetLippie likes to call it and I agree, "sticky face" and no amount of powder will tamp it down. I went for the darkest colour which is still a little light for my skin tone but blends away easily enough.

The foundation is by Daniel Sandler and is the dark shade. It has a screw top and integrated spatula. The flip top is the concealer and mirror. I find the foundation works really well with my skin and moisturiser which is oil based. My sister cannot use this foundation as she uses a water based moisturiser. The two simply don't work together without using a primer to separate the two layers.

The yellow powder is a setting powder that I prefer to use instead of a translucent or skin coloured pressed powder. I find that it adds luminosity without draining my skin of its natural undertone. It is made by Lumiere cosmetics.

The blush is a current favourite by Sleek MakeUP and is the nude shade. It's pretty perfect in terms of colour and pigmentation. I am still hankering for a cream/gel version that will last throughout the day as this will fade as it is a powder.

I favour a lip stain, and this one is quite unusual because this range offers colours I can't find anywhere else. This one is called Tropic by Lipstains Gold and is an orange/spice shade. Perfect for day wear and it lasts and lasts for hours even through eating and drinking. It does not bleed so you don't need to use a barrier or lip pencil and looks great with gloss.

Finally on to eyes, I like to keep it simple. I don't use a primer as I use concealer and powder which, in my opinion and experience, works just as well if not better than an eye lid primer. It is also quicker

I am a big user and collector of "neutral" palettes, I think they are incredibly versatile if they are made up of mainly matte colours with a couple of shimmers. This is the Nude collection by Sleek MakeUP.

I use a cocoa coloured pencil, brown doesn't show up and black can be a little harsh so to find a mixture is really good. This one is by Inika and is called 02 Coco. I also brush a little through my brows and set with a dark brown eye shadow from the palette.

I then curl my lashes and apply a mascara. This has to be one of my favourite mascaras and is by Beauty Without Cruelty. It's simply perfect for me. No clumps or flakes, it gives great length, separation, a bit of volume and it is very black.

I use what I think is a minimum number of brushes; two for eyes, a foundation/stipple brush, powder brush and blush brush.

Some of the items have been purchased by me and others were sent as samples for my review. Nothing makes it into this box unless it performs well, I don't have time for tricky products these days!

I like to change my make up as I discover new loves and faves. I always make sure I keep day to day items in a separate box like this. I expect when baby is born, this will become my saviour in terms of time and brain capacity!

Where do you keep your favourite, every day make up items?

Lust-have must-have nails for Autumn/Winter

2011-08-26T14:11:00.011+01:00

Rebel Nails have done it again with these new Duochrome aka Colour Flip purple & green/blue/gold nail wraps. I've placed this one on a nail stick as I am currently wearing some other Rebel Nails (translucent blue) and I am not ready to take them off yet!

I adore these and think they are perfect for Autumn and Winter. You can achieve this effect with some nail polishes, however this is a one coat wrap, they will last longer (especially on the toes) and I don't need to worry about smudging or chipping!

Buy online here £5.99 for and don't forget to check out the new 22 carat gold nails £14.99 -just released today!

These nail wraps were sent to me by Rebel Nails as part of my consultancy work. I am really lucky that I get to work with businesses and products I truly adore.

Join the facebook and Twitter for discount codes, contests and offers!

Here are some of my other favourites alongside the Purple flip nails.

Do you have any nail lust-have effects for Autumn/Winter?

Haus of Gloi - Bubbling Scrub

2011-08-03T15:00:00.004+01:00

A few of my friends on twitter have been praising Haus of Gloi products for a while now and I was delighted to be given a pot of Litchi Milk Tea Soft Bubbling Scrub by ModestyBrown. Just the name alone sounds wonderful but open the jar and use the product and it just gets better and better.

I'll start with my first impressions, pink fluffy paste consistency that is light and a bit like bubble gum. As you rub it between your fingers it appears to feel grainy which is the organic cane sugar scrub element. You can use this scrub anywhere on the body but I wouldn't use it on the face especially if your skin is on the sensitive side. The scent is described as "tart lychee fruit and black tea met with a splash of coconut milk". I wouldn't have known what this smelled like from the description and probably wouldn't have chosen it but it is fantastic. It makes me want to try more of the exciting products from the range.

When using this on feet I am left with soft and sweet smelling skin, the bubbling scrub disappears in to a lather which rinses away easily.

Haus of Gloi products are vegan and in my opinion of high quality. You can find bubbling scrubs and other scrumptious potions on their website for between $3 - $8 depending on size of pot. When ordering from the US from overseas, please see their shipping policies and bear in mind that Customs charges are likely to apply to orders over a certain value (check with your local post service for charges).

Cover FX Skin Tint SPF30

2011-07-27T11:59:00.009+01:00

Cover FX is a new brand to me, hailing from Canada and cruelty free, and you can now find it at the House of Fraser in the UK. I've had mixed feelings and experiences with mineral based liquid foundations and concealers. Often they are too dry for my dry skin and no matter how much moisturiser I use, there is irritating cling on to dry patches of skin. So I tend to stay away from mineral based foundations unless they are powders.

Pictured with the Skin Prep FX primer (top) which I use with other foundations, it's not necessary with Skin Tint FX

So I was sceptical that a sample sent to me would do much for me. After several weeks of use in many different conditions, I feel this is different, different enough to feel positive about. Skin Tint FX is not meant to be used as a foundation however it is good enough for me even on a not so clear skinned day. I quite like the hint of shimmer as it brings an added dimension. I've really enjoyed using this over the last few weeks, no irritation and a whopping SPF30 has made it to my "current make up box". More about that box in a later post I think! It's quick to smooth over the skin with fingers providing nice coverage with a sunkissed look which is effortless. I then pop a bit of concealer around areas still needing cover or colour correction.

I think the formula is excellent, so different to other tinted moisturisers I have used before. It's not dry or greasy but feels like you would expect a silicone-based primer (it contains dimethicone polymers), in that it is smooth and lightweight. It also doesn't melt in humid or sunny conditions. I find that I don't need to powder to set it either, probably due to the mattifying effect of the mineral pigments.

I get an excellent colour match with the C Light shade, so I am not sure whether to recommend it for all skin colours or whether if you are lighter skinned a lighter tone would be more suitable. I think that this would add a bit of a fake tan element if you are trying to extend your summery tan (of if you haven't been on holiday but want to look like it). I don't think it would be suitable for very pale complexions.

At £36 for 30ml it is at the pricey end of the scale however I would buy this as I've not found a tinted moisturiser with such a natural feel and finish. Also a very little amount goes a long way. Based on this experience I will probably explore the rest of the range either online or when I am near a stockist.

Aromatherapy Associates Nourishing Face Oil

2011-07-25T08:30:00.001+01:00

Not even the books I have read about pregnancy prepared me for the changes to my skin. The books tell you to expect either oilier or drier skin as the levels of hormones change. In my case, my skin became as dry as the Sahara and scaly across the cheeks with rosacea. So to add to feeling sick and tired, I was also looking in the mirror feeling sorry for myself and wanting to hide under a balaclava.

I have tried many of my tried and tested products (several face oils and rich moisturisers to no effect). To my rescue came Aromatherapy Associates who sent me their new Nourishing Face Oil. Containing sandalwood (one of my all time favourite scents), rose, peach, jojoba oil and evening primrose oil, I slathered and massaged this over my face in an attempt to bring moisture to my parched and sore skin. It made my skin tingle slightly which was probably the rose oil boosting my circulation, it soon subsided as the oils soaked in and left me with a rosy glow.

After about 30 minutes the short term effects of softening dry skin and soothing sore bits were apparent. If it still feels oily at this point and you need to apply make up or go out then lightly dab with a thin single ply of tissue to remove the excess.

The next day my skin was less dry but I continued to use it for a few days until my skin began to rebalance itself. Then I used it just at night and halved the amount.

You can add this to your current skin routine, in between your serum (if you use one) and moisturiser. Alternatively, you can use this as your moisturiser and facial massage oil. Whether you use this daily or just if your skin suffers an episode, it smells incredible. I was very chilled out after my first use!

A 15ml bottle will probably last months and you can buy it from lots of stockists such as Space NK or their website for £37.

Do you have any must have skin products that have resurrected your skin in times of need?

Exfolia Cloth - An awesome find!

2011-07-21T08:30:00.002+01:00

Have you ever considered microdermabrasion for stubborn dry patches, fine lines and deep exfoliation? I've had it and it was expensive, uncomfortable, time consuming (you have to book appointments) and didn't deliver any results.

On a random internet research mission I came across a microdermabrasion cloth and for £10 I thought I'd give it a go. The Exfolia cloth (distributed by Jica) is a light green lightweight woven cloth which feels like a chamois leather.

You can use it in several ways, but you must read the instructions or you will end up taking off too much skin which is quite sore! It is not for the faint hearted but it does deliver unparalleled results considering the price tag and the best thing is that you don't have to change your favourite cleansers or book appointments!

It is that effective that you don't need to go overboard with it. It's very easy to be seduced that more is better but with this cloth you must follow the instructions carefully or you'll be very sore. You may think I am over stating this point, but it's very important and not to be ignored. I use this once a week or fortnight. I wouldn't suggest using this every day.

The cloth can be used dry or wet with cleansing products or not, but make sure to use it on a clean face. I used it to take off make up and it's still got stains all over it that just won't come off!

If you are new to the cloth and microdermabrasion then use it dry and on a dry face. Gently sweep the cloth over the face (not eyes or lips) not more than 5 times in the same place.

If you're feeling braver the next time, use it dampened with warm water when it becomes soft and pliable with your cream or gel cleanser.

If you are completely hardcore and used to it like me then try using it after your cleanser with a dab of your usual cream exfoliator.

You may find that your skin is tingly and tight afterwards which is normal but it should not feel sore. If it is then you've gone a bit overboard - slather some aloe vera on and it should subside.

Afterwards rinse carefully and apply a nourishing and comforting moisturiser or oil. Your skin will drink this up and benefit the next day by being plump and soft.

I tend to use this in a bath and with a moisturising mask afterwards. It's advisable, like with any beauty treatment or facial, not to apply make up for at least 12 hours to get the best effect.

The cloth should last about 60 - 80 uses, which for me is about a year for me. I have two, one for my face and one for my body where it's great for bumpy arms, rough skin and ingrown hairs. It's a great way to exfoliate before applying fake tan (not that I do, it's just a suggestion).

I have already bought or recommended these cloths for friends and family and they love it too. Look out for it on special offer at beauty shows and trade events where you can pick them up half price sometimes.

Otherwise you can find it to order on the Jica website.

MuLondon - White Chocolate Truffle Moisturiser

2011-07-18T09:52:00.006+01:00

This gorgeous creation was a present from the wonderful ModestyBrown. Nothing delights me more than a gift of something that I could really use and enjoy. ModestyBrown has wonderful taste in all thing cosmetic, I highly recommend that you head over to her blog and check out her thoughts.

With only six ingredients (shea butter, cocoa butter, vanilla, cocoa and rosemary extracts and Jojoba oil), it is sinfully rich and a pleasure to use. It is meant to be a face moisturiser but I prefer to use it on my growing bump. Since becoming pregnant, I have totally gone off chocolate, this is a serious matter, but I can't seem to get enough of this White Chocolate moisturiser. The scent is identical.

The range is cruelty free, vegan, organic and natural. It ticks a lot of boxes for a mum to be.

Texture-wise it is a white solid oil that you need to scrape out of the pot, it quickly melts into a rich oil which moisturises for about 24 hours. I tend to use it after an evening bath.

Available in two sizes (30 and 60ml jars) I think it's a reasonable price of £7 (or £13 for the 60ml). A small amount goes a long way so I have used nearly half of it in a few months.

You can find this and other MuLondon products from their website.

I don't think I will ever buy another body butter again I am so happy with this one.

Face Atelier Façade in Livid

2011-07-05T10:30:00.000+01:00

Façade is a lip and cheek colour product, I received an email newsletter from Cocobeau.co.uk and I was drawn to it immediately (credit card at the ready it was purchased that same day). I have two similar products by Varama in pink and peach but not one in a cherry red which is perfect for Indian skin tones. The handy lipgloss type tube is very portable so good for the handbag too.

Livid is in the middle of the colour spectrum of the five shades currently available (light peach to deep plum). If you've used a silicone based primer or foundation you'll know the silky blendable but light formula I'm talking about. I prefer it to a cream blush as it isn't oily or pore clogging. I also prefer it to a gel which tends to cling to any dry bits on my cheeks in that familiar bloom pattern. It's much easier to control and blend than a powder blush. Less is definitely more with this product so work quickly with very small amounts to build up colour intensity. Use a damp brush or sponge if you apply too much to blend away and remove excess.

As a longevity test, I've used Façade all day. I'm very pleased with the results. There is some fading but much less than a cream or powder. Most of the fading is due to me touching my skin but I didn't need to touch it up all day. It's also very effective in humid conditions (steamy club or holiday) It's a great cheek product.

I do like it used on the lips but it doesn't last as well as a lipstick, it's too dry because it isn't waxy . So I suggest using it with a touch of balm over the top. There is nothing as satisfying as getting an exact match between lip and cheek colour so it is worth pursuing (these small things make me happy).

You can find Façade lip and cheek colour from Cocobeau at £22.50 per tube. It seems like a lot however a small dot blended over the cheekbones and lips is all that is needed for long lasting lip or cheek colour. It's going to last me a very long time.

Jonathan Ward Verte Collection

2011-06-21T12:00:00.003+01:00

Last week I popped in to Wholefoods in Kensington to buy my favourite candle, I truly was on a mission! I have tried several of Jonathan Ward's candles and so far my favourite is The Velvet Moss Rose. The main aromatic ingredients in this hand poured soy wax candle are Lavender, Vetiver, Patchouli and of course Rose. Jonathan may not thank me for this comparison but as soon as I smelled it, it reminded me of Coco by Chanel. Sorry Jonathan but it does and I love it for it.

As I mentioned this is a soy wax candle and so burns more softly and with little or no soot (so if you burn candles a lot then you won't get a sooty residue and it's better for your health). The burn time of the medium size (185g/ £20.50) is about 30 hours. I find it best to burn it for about an hour at a time so the top layer of wax is melted, this preserves the wick and by the time you get to the end all of the wax will have burned away - giving total value for money! The other reason I love it is that you don't even have to burn it for it to make a room smell wonderful. The intensity of the perfume is detectable even when the candle is boxed!

I have had many of Jonathan's extraordinary candles, and I don't see myself buying any others any time soon. I am equally excited to hear that Jonathan is expanding his wonderful artisan expertise in to other areas of fragrance such as diffusers.

A link to Jonathan's website and this candle is here!

I want to give special thanks and mention to three lovely ladies GetLippie, BritishBeautyBlogger and BeautyMouth for introducing me to both Jonathan and his artisan candles.

A refusal often offends - contacting brands, some pointers.

2011-06-13T11:19:00.009+01:00

I've only ever contacted a handful of companies about my blog and YouTube. The first was e.l.f Cosmetics UK as I had watched a video about them but thought they were just in the US. A bit of investigation and I found a UK website had recently been launched.

In the early days I found it highly embarrassing to self promote and still do, so I don't contact brands anymore. Most of the time I evaluate whether I would purchase a brand first. If it is a brand I haven't heard of, is expensive or is only available via the Internet or Mail Order, I might contact them for a sample which is fairly normal for a customer to do. A lot of the time for very new or small companies, that is the first interaction with a blogger. So I feel I am carrying the mantle for the rest of us and want to make it a pleasant and meaningful experience for all.

Now I am the person who reads those emails from other bloggers, and I have to say that they are letting me down! Every day I receive emails from girls who are practically demanding products in return for reviews on their blogs. This is so embarrassing for me as a blogger, I just despair when I read some of the hastily scratched out demands for products with little insight in to what it is they are offering. To be successful in working with brands you have to have a professional attitude. The way I see it is that you only get one chance with a brand to make the right impression and to be taken seriously, just like a job interview.

So I've compiled a list of pointers based on my experience of contacting brands and being contacted by bloggers. If you are thinking of approaching a brand for review samples or information and you want to be taken seriously, consider these obvious but often missed points:

1. It's important to research the brand you are contacting. What are their latest products/shades and why do you want to try them, but are not prepared to buy them? Do not say that you "don't have any money" or "on a spending ban". If you are a prolific reviewer then it is acceptable that you simply don't have enough time/space to buy everything that interests you in your budget but there's no need to say it!

2. Do not write a blanket email (unless it's really good), put some effort in to your approach and cover email (just like you would for a job that you really wanted to get). To a brand, this is a business proposal for PR, so use language that is suitable. If you don't know what this language is, don't hit send, take some more time to think about what you are offering. A really good thing to do is think about what unique thing you are offering to a brand and proposing that before asking for products in return.

3. A refusal often offends but manners cost nothing. So don't be upset if you don't get an offer of products, it's a brave thing to approach a brand and start a dialogue. That's just what it is, the start, you never know what can happen in the future. A refusal now is not a closed door for your blog. It's not good manners to fire an email back to me asking for further reasons why I can't send you something! I will have looked at your blog and decided whether it is something we can take forward or not.

4. If you receive a lot of refusals or no replies, try to think what a brand wants to hear when being approached? Be proactive, business like and not too casual. Saying "contact me if you want to" at the end of your email says you're not too bothered, so why should I be? Equally crass is "please reply to my email as soon as possible", it makes the writer sound a bit desperate and actually won't speed me up at all.

5. Ask yourself honestly why you want these products. I can always tell when someone is simply sending me an email that they have sent to countless other brands. Phrases such as "I am a big fan of your products", "I have heard great things about your brand" are all too familiar. If you haven't heard of us, then don't worry, say so. By all means have a shopping list of items you'd like to review but don't include it in your email until the subject is broached by the brand.

6. Don't promise great reviews in return for products. Some brands may want this but I don't want exposure from a blogger who promises great reviews. We want honest and in depth reviews, not fluff pieces. Your readers will appreciate honest reviews, more so from a product which has been sent to you for review.

7. Be honest about your blog, in terms of viewership, followers and quality of your reviews. I read a lot of blogs and websites, I can spot a good writer, clear photographs, honesty, passion and commitment to blogging a mile away. Also understand the marketplace for blogs, there are many blogs out there reviewing products. What makes yours different? Do you have a unique view point or angle?

8. Obvious, but include a link to your posts about the brand (if you have any) or just your website. If you don't include it, I can't find it!

9. Know the demographic and geography of the brand you are targeting. If your blog is based in a country that the company doesn't cover (yet) then your email shows that you haven't done your research.

10. Be realistic please. The funniest email I ever received was from a person who hadn't even started their blog/YouTube channel because they didn't have any make up as their parents didn't let them buy it. Would I send them some to start their channel? Three emails later and she still didn't understand why I couldn't send her some make up.

My final piece of advice is this; if your blog is what a brand is looking for, they will find you eventually. If you are interested in a brand, then buy an item and review it before approaching. Don't look around and see what other bloggers have and think it's easy, it really isn't they have to work hard to build and maintain relationships and to be taken as seriously as journalists and celebrities.

I love hearing from new bloggers, so don't be put off writing to me about your blog, just be realistic about your chances of success. I also have a note about age, I personally don't work with bloggers under the age of 18. It's a moral grey area for me, I realise that teenagers have many valid opinions and are customers but I don't want the brand to be accused of taking advantage of young people to promote products.

Good luck with your blog! Be smart and safe when contacting companies, don't forget that we do talk to each other about you so try to take every experience as positive and build upon it for your next encounter!

2012 Eye Liner Trends

2011-06-10T12:00:00.003+01:00

From a recent fact finding trip, I met with several make up development companies who were keen to show me their 2012 colours and textures.

Baroque - these colours are sumptuous and bold - conveying elegance and drama. Colours such as scarlet, old gold and purple.

Nostalgia - Soft and fresh colours such as peach, light teal and smoky brown.

Plastix - Vibrant and jungle inspired colours - I think a perfect interpretation for the Summer 2012 London Olympics.

I'm very excited about these two-tone pencils, I love iridescent jewel tone pencils and I have been looking for some more for a long time. I have the Bourjois duo chrome pencils which are adorable but these look even more exciting.

I am not sure I can wait until 2012! I only wonder now which make up company will be branding and selling these next year!?

Chatty Chick.

2011-06-07T11:32:00.007+01:00

I work for e.l.f cosmetics UK, part of my role is to be responsible for our social media. It's been very successful for the company in building a customer base, which for an online only brand can be hard work. I have been a blogger and YouTuber for over three years. The landscape, technology and number of people involved has increased dramatically in that time. It is barely recognisable from where I started three years ago.

I like to think of myself as an all rounder in the world of social media, I've learned that the only way that works is to immerse yourself in it, learn from others and try new things. The great thing about social media is that you don't have to spend a lot to find out what works.

I manage a few facebook pages, the elfcosmeticsUK facebook page alone has nearly 200,000 fans, as well as the twitter and YouTube channels that are growing steadily. elfcosmeticsUK was voted #33 in the top 100 social brands in the UK earlier this year. We also scooped a fair amount of awards in the Latest in Beauty New Year's honours list, including Brand of the Year, thanks to our social media fans' votes. They are a force to be reckoned with and you can't buy that kind of loyalty and following, it has to be earned. I'm very proud of these achievements as it is mainly down to me and the interactions I have with fans on a daily basis.

Just like marketing, everyone thinks they can do it and with the right experience and mind set, they can! I found that it takes a while to get in to the flow of a community and its mood. It's not that hard really, if you're naturally chatty and have a lot of knowledge about the product range.

I will freely admit that a lot of money is wasted (by others I might add) on social media campaigns which fail to meet the mark in terms of awareness, conversion to sales and interacting on a human level with customers. I won't name names, I take no schadenfreude from these all too public gaffs, I just hope they have learned from their experiences. It's not something you undertake because everyone else is doing it and it seems to work for them.

I've had a lot of interaction with PR agencies, young companies and social media agencies on how best to grow their following. I tell them all the same thing, people won't join a page for a one sided conversation, that's just not social [media].

Skincare Staples.

2011-06-01T12:00:00.001+01:00

In times of skin woe I turn to two products which help to rebalance and heal my skin back to a happier state; Alva Cleansing Milk and Alva Lifting Cream. I often have bouts of Rosacea acne, painful red welts on my cheeks which lasts about 2 weeks if I do not treat it with the right products. Sometimes it is brought about by hormones, stress or food (such as red wine and refined sugars in my case).

I've been using these products nearly a year in every season with no ill effects. I like them because no matter how sore, upset or out of sorts my skin is feeling these do not aggravate but gently bring my skin back from the brink. If they don't help then I know it's time to see a Doctor for medical intervention! 90% of the time, these products resolve a flare up for me.

Both products are from the Sanddorn range of Anti-ageing products containing Sea Buckthorn extract. The Sea Buckthorn gives the range a distinctive natural scent and peach colour.

The Cleansing milk is very effective at removing dirt, oil and make up (even waterproof) but remains gentle and non-drying. I take a small amount and work it over the face and neck, then remove with a damp muslin cloth. You can find out more about this product (ingredients, reviews and prices) here. I will say that a 150ml tube has lasted me nearly a year and I intend to repurchase it as the thought of not having it should my skin flare up is not worth contemplating.

Alva Lifting Cream is my next beauty staple, a light but rich cream which is an excellent day moisturiser. It leaves my skin feeling plump and smooth without loading my skin with oil. I do notice the slight tightening effect around the eyes and nose (which is great if my eyes are a bit puffy). It is on the expensive side of reasonable but for such an excellent, no hassle product I am willing to pay it again rather than take my chances with another product.

Do you have products that you turn to in times of need as tried and tested favourites?

e.l.f Complete Coverage Concealer

2011-05-20T09:35:00.001+01:00

New to e.l.f UK and Italia is the Complete Coverage Concealer quartet, available in three colours (light, medium and dark) and presented in sleek black plastic compacts with a small concealer brush and mirror.

CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE

I'll start by saying the obvious which is that the pale of pale will be disappointed by this product, the concealers are simply too dark for an English Rose complexion.

So if you're still reading this, as you are not pale, then here we go! Consistency wise it's not as creamy as the All Over Cover stick but a good concealer should be dryish and thin. This allows excellent and perfect coverage by building it up in layers. The heat from your fingers will melt the concealer allowing it to blend to a smooth finish.

I am impressed with this product, I didn't expect to be as concealers are incredibly tricky especially when they promise "complete coverage". I am a big fan of the e.l.f undereye concealer and highlighter and concealer pencil and brush. The concealer pencil and brush is not appropriate for large areas as it is too thick but just for small spots and hyper-pigmentation. The undereye concealer brightens but does not conceal very dark veins and circles. You can use this concealer palette all over the face and in larger areas. I use it to conceal red cheeks and undereye circles.

If your skin is on the drier side like mine, then make sure to use a primer or moisturiser first or it will dry quickly and settle in fine lines. You'll need a primer to ensure that it sits nicely on the skin and lasts well. Best applied with a small brush (included) then blended using the heat from your ring finger (preferred) or if you are in a hurry a small fluffy blender brush. Powder lightly to set and you are good to go for the day.

I can make use of all three of these palettes, the light I would use for highlighting and the dark for contouring. They make a really good palette and handy addition to any make up artist kit.

Complete Concealer palettes are available from e.l.f Cosmetics for £3.50 each. I work for e.l.f Cosmetics UK and these products were sent to me for review (and also as a customer product advisor).

e.l.f Conditioning Lipbalm SPF15 - all shades

2011-05-18T10:37:00.006+01:00

My favourite every day shade from this range is Mellow Melon, the first three shades (top row) are sheer. None of the shades are shimmery. They smell of coconut (or pina colada to me), much like the essential range hypershine lip glosses.

These are sheer, non sticky but quite pigmented. For example, Mellow Melon on me gives me a coral pink colour which is great for spring/summer, it doesn't totally block out my skin tone underneath, so bear that in mind. These are not meant to be as pigmented as lipsticks but as you progress towards Romantic Rouge the pigment increases dramatically (as you can see from the swatches) so you get a lot more colour.

These are creamy and soft, leaving my lips plump and moisturised but not greasy or sticky. I really like these for days when I don't want to wear lipstick or gloss but fancy some colour, moisture and SPF.

The only downside for me is that the pots are rather bulky and there is a lot of product so it's going to last ages. It will fit in my bag but I am one of those people who prefer sticks or pens for on the go as it is more convenient (such as the luscious liquid lipstick in Strawberry). I think due to the colour and shine, I could be persuaded put this in my bag at least it won't be hard to find. I think there has to be a lot in the conditioner as you do go through it quickly, faster than a lip balm as you want the colour to last.

I've swatched these on white paper, I think it's easier than swatching them on my lips or skin as everyone is different. This way you can see the colour for how it is and make up your own mind if it fits in with your colour palette. I think Blissful Berry is a colour everyone could wear. CLICK ON THE PICTURE FOR A LARGER VERSION.

The pots look like the Studio range eye products, crystal plastic pots with black square lids. These are probably twice the size of the cream eye liners for example.

There aren't too many ingredients, I think e.l.f like to keep it simple and to tried and tested formulas which helps keep costs down. Vitamins A & E are present as well as SPF 15 so useful for summer.

The Conditioning Lip Balms recently went on sale for £3.50 at the e.l.f UK website. As I work for e.l.f in the UK, it's my pleasure to bring you my thoughts on this product.

Do you wear tinted lip conditioners, which would you choose?

When to think of others' needs ahead of your own.

2011-05-16T14:46:00.002+01:00

This week has been very hard for my husband and I, we had the horrible decision to make on whether to put our pet cat Mewser through a painful and life threatening operation.

For those of you who don't know Mewser, she was quite old - we are not sure how old as I got her from a rescue centre. We think she was probably about 15 years old. I've had her for seven years. When she came to me she was so skinny, terrified and obviously had been abused. It took six months to earn her trust and she eventually blossomed in to the most affectionate and loyal friend.

Last year Mewser developed kidney disease, a common terminal disease in older cats with no treatment or cure. She also suffered a stroke earlier this year which left her legs weak and she was also blinded. Since then her life had gone downhill, every day was difficult for her. But she would still purr and loved our company. We were not ready to say goodbye.

This week when the vet said that we had to do something, there was no do nothing option, we decided that she had been brave enough and it was time to let her go to peace. It was one of the most distressing things I have ever had to do, it all happened so quickly that one moment she was there and the next she was gone forever.

What was good was that we bought her body home with us, I was able to talk to her and say goodbye. I asked for her forgiveness and understanding that we loved her so much that we had to put her welfare ahead of our feelings of loss.

It's hard when you lose someone close to you, the added guilt that I had made the decision to end her life weighs heavily on me. I don't feel like much of a cat momma for doing it. In time I know that I will feel that I did the responsible thing. Her life had degenerated so much that it was not fair to keep her alive just so I could have her presence in my life. I had always known that I would have to make this decision if she did not die naturally. I had hoped against hope that she would slip peacefully away in her sleep.

The little black furry void which has been left in my life is hard to bear at the moment, I keep thinking I hear her stirring behind me or calling me from the kitchen to feed her. I try not to think of her last moments in the vets but more of her happy moments and the love that we shared.

I am very glad that I made these videos about Mewser, you can see all her antics here. http://www.youtube.com/user/TheMewser

Sleek MakeUP - Luminaire Highlighting Concealer

2011-05-06T09:00:00.001+01:00

Available in five shades L01 - L05, I was sent L02 the second lightest shade to try. A click-pen type dispenser with a fibre brush tip combined with a dryish formula mean it's hard to overdose on the highlighter/concealer.

What makes this slightly different to other highlighter/concealer pens is the texture which is quite thick and very pigmented. On first use I found that it dries very quickly and becomes too dry to blend out. The trick is to use a damp brush or sponge so that you don't blend it away but you can manoeuvre the product to where you want it.

The effect is quite good though, decent coverage of dark circles and any redness. From a distance it looks flawless and I was impressed with how bright and clear my undereyes looked. However on closer inspection it does dry in to wrinkles and clings like a limpet to any dry patches on your skin.

My suggestion if you are going use this product for the brilliant highlighting and concealing properties (there is no shimmer which is good) then moisturise extra well to prevent it drying too quickly and settling in to fine lines/dry bits.

I like this product for highlighting too, bring it down the from the undereye area to a point on the middle of the cheek in a triangle and blend for really well defined and chiselled cheeks. Use above the jawline from ear to ear to add even more depth to sculpted cheek hollows.

Sleek MakeUP Luminaire Highlighting Concealer is a bit of a bargain at £6.49 from Superdrug and at Sleek MakeUP's online store from 11 May 2011.

Del Sol Colour Changing Nail Polish

2011-05-03T17:00:00.002+01:00

Sunkissed is my favourite nail polish for the Summer. I decided to crack open this bottle early considering the beautiful weather we're experiencing in the UK at the moment. Watch the video below to see the real time colour change! It was very hard to film as it changes so quickly! There's also a free shipping code in the information box if you are tempted to try one of the 22 shades of photochromic nail polish from the R8Beauty website.

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Tapered Blending Brush

2011-04-29T09:00:00.002+01:00

I have several OCC brushes, they are synthetic (vegan and cruelty free) brushes. I use the large powder brush on brides to calm their nerves, it's very therapeutic, as well as for applying setting powders!

The tapered blending brush is primarily of the eye area but I often use it to blend away concealer lines from under the eyes and around the nose. Synthetic brushes are wholly more versatile than hair brushes, they also don't leach their dye, they dry more quickly and are a dream to use with wet and dry products. If you're thinking of buying a new set of brushes or a few new ones then you really can't go wrong with synthetic ones. They will last a lot longer too (as they can be treated more roughly for thorough cleansing and the hairs won't bend or splay out when drying).

I've enjoyed using this brush a lot, it comes with me on every outing as do the powder and small shader brushes! I think the prices are fairly reasonable for brushes which are going to last, you can use with wet and dry products, and deliver good results. I think these are better than a lot of synthetic brushes and I would expect that from this price range. I can't compare to cheaper brushes such as the Ecotools and e.l.f Bamboo - which are also brilliant brushes too for the price and ranges available.

You can find OCC brushes on Love-makeup in UK from their website, the tapered blending brush is £14.99.

GOSH Velvet Touch Foundation Primer Cream and Bronzing Shimmer Powder

2011-04-27T09:00:00.000+01:00

I'll admit that I was sceptical about the cream version of the GOSH velvet touch foundation primer. I had not liked the gel version, mainly because it is more suited to oilier skins and I found myself giving it away. I think it was the first time I had seen a primer available for a reasonable price and since then you can't move for primers on the High Street.

I was delighted to see the cream version when I was in Ireland over Christmas and I kicked myself for not buying it there and then (there was a huge queue and Euros were strong against Sterling blah blah blah).

I've been using it a bit lately as a base but it can be used as a moisturiser too, I have preferred moisturisers with SPF that I use during the day. But on a night out this would be great to keep my skin hydrated.

Did this work for me? Yes and very well indeed. Let's be honest, there isn't much of a wrinkle filling effect but what it did do was to lessen the settling in to fine lines that you can sometimes see after a few hours. A nice bonus, my make up did remain fresher for longer and resisted the need for powder later on in the day. So I like it and I would buy it again, I prefer it over silica based gels for my combination to dry skin type. Well done GOSH, this is a great little product for the price.

The Primer Cream is around £12.99 for a 30ml pump dispenser from Superdrug and other online stockists.

Now on to the Bronzing Shimmer Powder in 001 Bronze. In the picture you can see that the stripes are good for asian skin tones, not too much pink and plenty of brown. When you open up yours you will notice a lot of gold glitter on top, do not be put off by this, a couple of brushes and it's gone, leaving behind the gorgeous not overly glittery and subtle bronzer shades. I love all of the shades. Since I began using this, it has made it in to my everyday make up kit, it doubles as a blush/bronzer and eye palette. The colours are natural and harmonising with my Indian skin tone. I am delighted to have found a bronzer which works with my skin tones.

The Bronzing Shimmer Powder is £7.99 for a 9g compact from Superdrug in the UK.

L'Occitane Immortelle Brightening Moisture Mask

2011-04-25T09:00:00.000+01:00

I have nothing but good things to say about this product.

Immortelle is a tiny yellow flower which grows in and around Mediterranean coastlines. They are so called as they last a long time, drying them even maintains their distinctive daisy-like scent. This product uses an essential oil derived from the flowers which is said to boost collagen synthesis and cell renewal. I know nothing of these aspects so I can only talk about how I have used it and the effects I have noticed immediately after use.

I now travel with a little pot of the mask as it has such powerful skin hydration properties. I take my make up off when the plane has taken off and apply a generous layer of the mask to help keep my skin content in the the dry air of the flight. Reapply if the flight is longer than 2 hours. I then arrive with plump and fresh skin, ready for the day or evening!

I have only ever experienced the plumping effects, like those I experience with this mask, after an expensive facial infusion treatment. So it indeed is worth the price tag! I was very pleasantly surprised also that this effect has not lessened with each use. Every time I use this mask (generally after exfoliating to calm and hydrate the skin once a week) my skin feels wonderfully plump, fine lines are less noticeable and my skin is brighter. The rest of the range is looking fairly attractive to me...

A note about how the skin brightening compounds work in this product, they lessen the effectiveness of melanin production in the skin. This is not advisable if you do not intend to use a high SPF when in sunlight as you are lessening the natural defence of your skin to sunlight. This mask is intensive and requires after care of your skin. I would advise using the Brightening Shield which has SPF40, which brightens and evens as well as protects at the same time. This advice must not be ignored.

Another note about brightening, it is not about lightening your skin shade, I do not endorse skin lightening. It's a form of internal racism in my mind and I don't approve of it at all. Instead I would like to see brown people celebrate and be proud of our gorgeous and individual skin tones! There are enough fools out there trying desperately to be brown and ending up orange, and we have it naturally! But if you suffer from uneven skin tones, pigmentation from acne or medication then that's different. I use this for the moisturising effects and to even out persistent and dark scars from occasional acne.

A 125ml tub is generous and should last you several months of weekly use, it is priced around £39 and available from L'Occitane stores and online.

Yes to... Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel

2011-04-24T09:00:00.000+01:00

Cucumbers are packed with vitamins A and C and have been captured in this light and smooth gel for the eye area. I found it to be refreshing and cooling especially as this is the start of hayfever season for so many people. As it's a gel it is also great for gentle tightening of the eye area without pulling or discomfort, so if you're eyes are puffy and could do with a lift then this might be for you.

Initially I was put off trying this cream as I have a pathological hatred of all things cucumber! I went to a natural products show and the lovely Yes to people were there so let me sniff them! Just as with the Yes to Tomatoes, I was pleasantly surprised that it doesn't really smell of cucumbers after all, bonus!

I often get asked about eye creams and are they really effective. My answer is that you need to major skin care items from any age, there is no cure only a way to slow down the march of wrinkles. A good sunscreen and an eye cream. Everything else is a bonus. In your 20s and 30s I suggest opting for a gel as it isn't as heavy as a full on eye cream. They are easily absorbed but offer more moisture without greasiness. It's a matter of trial and error in deciding on your perfect formula. Be careful just to use it sparingly, less is definitely more with eye creams, too much and you'll be puffy in the morning, or your concealer will crack and slip.

I tend to use an eye cream at night and during the day if my eyes are feeling sore or puffy.

What do you use around your eyes and how many have you tried before finding your perfect one?

It's all coming up Roses!

2011-04-23T09:00:00.000+01:00

It suddenly dawned on me that I have a lot of Rose products!

Here's a small selection from left to right

Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Body Elixir

Sleek Blusher in Rose Gold

e.l.f Mineral Blush in Rose

The Body Shop Moroccan Rose Eau de Toilette

Tisserand Rose and Lemon Deodrant

Obsessed Minerals Eye Shadow in Kentucky Rose

Melvita Rose Shower Cream

The beautiful roses were part of a beautiful arrangement from my friend who recently married and I was honoured to be her make up artist for the day.

Argh forgotten my false lash case! A quick fix.

2011-04-18T09:00:00.002+01:00

Have you ever done this? Gone out for the evening and misplaced your lash kit? Rather than having them hang around gathering dust and gunk, I found a quick solution using a Post-It note.

Turn the note over so that the sticky side is facing you, attach the lashes to the bottom of the sticky tab.

Fold in the outer edges and stick down at the top.

Fold up to the sticky tab and press to seal.

Just like an envelope, fold over the sticky tab to seal.

And now you have a safe and portable eye lash holder!

You can also use this method for storing smashed powders, albeit temporarily, to keep the rest of your makeup clean.

Do you have any emergency solutions you've used?

The 4 minute shower challenge - can you do it?

2011-04-15T09:00:00.001+01:00

Recently I listened to Donnachadh McCarthy a leading eco-consultant, he gave a very interesting presentation about how to eco-audit your home and workplace. He also gave me a little 4 minute egg timer saying that if you can keep to this timer in your shower, you'll have used less than a bath of water! It now makes a lot more sense how much water and heat we waste by taking long showers. Thinking that these are actually more environmentally sustainable, but they aren't. We don't have a power shower, thankfully as a 10 minute power shower can use up to 3 baths of water.

Now don't get me wrong, I love to have a long hot shower but I realise that this isn't sustainable. What if everyone in the world decided to take a long hot shower, well we'd be in crisis, well more of a environmental crisis than we already are.

So over the last couple of weeks the egg timer has been in use in our shower at chez OxfordJasmine. Mr OJ takes forever in the shower so I wanted him to a) be quicker b) leave me some hot water and c) reduce our water and gas bills! We see it as a bit of a challenge and have been sharing tips on how to speed up the shower!

At first I went massively over 4 minutes so I have taken these steps

1. Cleanse face and neck separately before or after the shower

2. Stop the shower if I am using a body scrub or loofah to later up and clean myself

3. Not to use deep conditioners that require more than a minute on the scalp. I save those for the bath!

4. If I am not in a hurry or don't have to have a shower in the morning, I have a bath, and then Mr OJ steps in after me (I like my water really hot and he's more temperate so it works out for both of us). I get to relax and read a book, pop on that hair treatment or mask too.

If you're a bill payer and squirm anxiously when the bills arrive then you might be interested to read Donnachadh's book "Easy Eco Auditing", £7.99.

Do you think you can shower in under 4 minutes? What tips could you give?

Inika Certified Organic Eye Liner in 02 Coco Review

2011-04-12T12:00:00.003+01:00

If you've ever wanted an eye liner which is not black but not brown either, then this is the colour for you. Forever mixing my brown and black cream liners to get that perfect colour is nearly a thing of the past.

Many brands are starting to see the light (or dark) of producing products that are in between black and brown, I find most browns don't show up and black is a little too harsh for day wear unless it is used very thinly.

When choosing a shade that is in between, look for names like Espresso, Coco or BlackCocoa (such as Pixi by Petra). It really will be the colour of very strong dark coffee.

Inika is an Australian brand and has been a favourite ever since becoming cruelty free, the brand is reassuringly inexpensive considering that the products are organic, vegan and of excellent quality. This pencil retails for between £7-11 depending on stockist. The liner itself is creamy with a dryish texture which allows it to last a long while even on the waterline. It doesn't irritate my sensitive eyes like others can; and when fixed with dark shadow it has all the staying powder of a gel or cream liner.

I have tried only a limited part of the range, but I would recommend you try their pigment shadows, there are some simply stunning colours and textures. I am testing out the Liquid Mineral Foundation at the moment so I shall report back to you in good time.

You can find Inika products at many websites, mainly those with an organic or natural focus. You can find out more about Inika as a company from their Australian website, which will also give you lots of information about their product range.

Compact and bijoux - travel make up

2011-04-08T12:00:00.003+01:00

A quick picture from my recent travels showing that I can get all my make up and brushes in to a small wristlet (which doubles as an evening purse). As you know I like to decant large containers in to smaller ones that can either be disposed of or fit neatly in to a pouch.

Every time I travel I try take as little as possible, what I take is obviously dependent on where and what I'll be doing on my travels too. This time it was a trip to London for the day to give makeovers at a trade show.

NYX HD eyelid primer - this is a white, thin consistency which is a nice alternative to creamy, dry feeling primers. It doesn't have to be set with matte powder, but I use my face powder to as it makes the shadows last even longer. Available from Cocktail Cosmetics.

Bourjois Kohl and Contour 16 hour eye liner in brown

Coastal Scents compact eyelash curler - an excellent curler, not a frightening contraption and gives a nice natural curl, it is not possible to over curl the lashes using this curler.

e.l.f Studio Concealer pencil and brush

e.l.f Studio Undereye concealer and highlighter

Lily Lolo blush in Clementine (tester)

Face Atelier Ultra Foundation in #7 Tan from Cocobeau.

Face Atelier Loose Powder (which I then proceeded to drop all over the bathroom, pah!)

Alva Eye Shadow Duo (Gold) - an utterly amazing eye shadow duo which suits everyone. Creamy and multi-tonal means that it will look different according to skin tone but it works with rather than against. A definite must have!

Bourjois Lipstick in Sienne - a peachy lipstick, which I didn't think would work for me but it does. It has enough pigment to block out the undertone of my lips to lighten them and then I place a lipgloss over the top to tone the peachyness down a bit.

A selection of e.l.f brushes.

You're wondering where my mascara is? I was travelling down as well to look at a lot of mascara samples for a new project that we are working on, so naked lashes were required for me to test them out!

Pure Paw Paw Papaya Ointment by Phytocare

2011-04-05T17:30:00.001+01:00

I love the smell of fermented Papaya, I didn't know this until I tried a tube of PURE Papaya Ointment. This light yellow soft buttery ointment really is my kind of product as it has 101 uses. PURE Papaya Ointment has soothed chapped lips and minor burns, moisturised dry elbows and knees and cared for eczema and dermatitis inflammations. It's pretty safe to use on anyone, so when friends forget their nappy rash cream they can use a bit of this too. I think it is a better and safer alternative to EA 8 hour cream, having never got on with this product as it is too strong for my sensitive skin (and nose).

Ingredients:
Shea butter, Macadamia oil, Jojoba oil, Papaya ferment, Vitamin E, coconut derivatives, Beeswax, Olive derived emulsifier, Silica, Fragrance (naturally derived), Bark resin (Styrax), Marigold flower extract - As you can see all truly natural derived ingredients and no petrochemicals.

PURE Papaya Ointment is 100% petroleum jelly free and is available in 25g (around £10) and 100g (around £20) tubes from various stockists. I have found that used sparingly, as a little goes a long way, I am only half way through the 25g tube in 3 months.

Alva Coleur Lip Balm Review - Soft Rose

2011-03-31T10:00:00.000+01:00

Another exit review for Alva Coleur Liquid Lip Balm in Soft Rose. The 8ml tube lasted me about 4 months of daily use.

The liquid balm is a soft non-shimmery translucent rose colour although it looks purple in the tube, do not fear. It adds a hint of colour and shine to the lips. It's liquid texture means that it's easy and quick to apply but not sticky and lasts a fair amount of time before reapplication. The packaging is a simple slim lip gloss tube with screw top and wand applicator. I don't have to worry about temperature drops solidifying or highs liquefying it in my bag (if you've ever had a lipbalm/lipstick melt in your bag, you'll appreciate this even more).

The thing I like the most about this product is the scent, I never get tired of it - it smells like Vanilla Cola - something I never drink as I value my teeth but I love the smell! Also being a braces wearer (for the time being) it doesn't end up all over the front of my clear step brace which looks worse than lipstick covered teeth...

The balm is also available in a soft peach colour which will be great for soft summer lips. I tend to use this all the time as a moisturising and hydrating lip balm or preparation for wearing lipstick. I find that it acts as a temporary lip plumper without resorting to stinging or menthol sensations, so perhaps more suitable for those with cinnamon/menthol sensitivity.

I already have my back up of this product (thank goodness). A definite repurchase.

You can find out about the Alva range and the Liquid Lip Balm ingredients/prices from the Alva website.

5 new gift sets from L'Occitane

2011-03-30T09:00:00.000+01:00

Just when you thought you had your Mother's day gift sorted, along comes L'Occitane with five gift sets! Available in Plum, Cherry, Shea Butter, Lavender (pictured) and Rose, each is £39 from their website.

4 new pigments from e.l.f Studio

2011-03-29T08:00:00.002+01:00

More alliteration from e.l.f Cosmetics UK, the four Studio Pigments. A small selection on colours which are trendy "biologically" inspired colours.

Innocent Ivory is a cream shade which when applied leaves a beautiful irridescent pink (as a highlight for smoky eyes it's lovely. On it's own or applied over another shadow, it provides warmth and shimmer without glitter.

Mystic Moss is a deep green with flecks of silver shimmer. Intense when packed on over a darker colour or an interesting alternative to a black smoky eye. Looks amazing on every eye colour.

Magical Maroon, which if you are blue eyed is going to look simply stunning. A deep plum shimmer.

Naughty Noire is a deep charcoal colour, very little shimmer so perfect for lining, blending and it has an intense colour pay off.

I don't think I can take much more alliteration, I bet you there will be a "teasing teal" before long!

Available now at £3.50 each from the e.l.f cosmetics website.

The BEST eye make up remover I have ever had...

2011-03-28T08:30:00.000+01:00

This is an exit interview for a product I have recently finished.

This product makes taking off all kinds of eye make up (even the most stubborn waterproof liner and mascara) a complete breeze without leaving my eyes sore and streaming. No sulphates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, colours, glycol or silicones.

It was such a surprise too, I really didn't expect a product that costs only £4.99 for a generous 125ml bottle and that is a completely vegan product but claims to be very gentle to be up to much.

Try it is all I can say. It's a definite repurchase for me!

What is it...? Follow this link here and see!

Natural Products Europe 3-4 April 2011

2011-03-27T12:00:00.001+01:00

I will be at this show, with my friends from Alva Skincare and Makeup. I'll be giving tips on how to use their new make up range Green Equinox and valuable skin care tips on how to achieve your perfect look every day.

This is an industry event (so businesses looking to connect with other businesses) so I don't think it's possible to buy products on the day. However, I am reliably informed that there may well be a chocolate fountain and strawberries at the event in London's Olympia (there always seems to be at these healthy events)!

Hope to see you there, find out more about the exhibition here http://www.naturalproducts.co.uk/

Eye of the Day - Turquiose

2011-03-26T13:41:00.002Z

4 New Mineral Eyeshadows from e.l.f Cosmetics

2011-03-25T13:06:00.006Z

Smoldering is a smoky gunmetal with pink/blue/green/pewter shimmer. Yes it is gorgeous!

Flirty is a fresh deep lavender colour with silver shimmer.

Dreamy is a beautiful teal/sea green with fine silver shimmer running through it.

Beachy is a gorgeous bright blue with a blue shimmer.

Enjoy all these new spring/summer shades which are now available on the UK and Italian websites at £3 each.

Click on an image for a larger more detailed version.

Parissa Chamomile Body Sugar Review

2011-03-25T09:00:00.001Z

I purchased this system a while back from Holland & Barrett. The kit contains a 140ml pot of sugar, three wooden spatulas, 20 washable strips and a small vial of Azulene oil (which is a lovely blue colour and is supposed to prevent ingrown hairs if applied after sugaring).

I put off using it until it started to get a bit warmer and skirts were being worn! I don't really know what I was so worried about as it was "relatively" painless and easy to use.

Warm the sugar in the microwave until it has the consistency of runny honey and test is for temperature so you don't burn yourself. Allow a bit to cool on a spatula and apply to the leg or arm. If the mixture is still on the hot side then allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 mins before testing again.

Then use as you would a wax system, applying carefully and thinly to areas you wish to remove hair. The benefit of a sugar system is that it doesn't adhere as much as wax so it won't pull off more than a few thin layers of skin with the hair (saves me exfoliating).

I found it easy and pleasant to use, the great thing is that you can apply the sugar to the whole leg and then only really need to use two to three strips as you can use them more than once. This makes it really speedy! If you make a mistake or it gets on towels then it is easy to wash out with warm water. The sugar only needs to be warm for application, it remains sticky so you can use the strips in succession.

I haven't used this on the face as I am still considering laser so don't want to mess up my hair growth by removing roots. I did use it to shape a friend's eyebrows the other day and it worked really well. In fact much better as if any gets on eyelashes, you can wipe it away with damp cotton wool.

This system is a definite repurchase for me as I have tried and failed to make my own sugar mixture and now can't be bothered to keep trying! I'd rather just buy a sure fire system! I'd say that if you were doing legs, underarms and bikini once every 2-3 weeks (6 weeks? no way!) this would last about 2-3 months (4-6 full applications).

Parissa Chamomile Body Sugar Natural Hair Removal System costs between £9 - £15 depending on stockists.

L'Occitane - Elegant Legs Mist Review

2011-03-24T10:00:00.002Z

Launching in the UK on 4th April, I was lucky enough to have been given a bottle to try before the launch.

I took this product to Italy with me on a business trip and I am so glad that I did. I was spending all day on my feet (in heels!) and during breaks would pop back to my apartment nearby and spray my legs and feet with this toning and refreshing spray. It's mildly moisturising but mainly light and quickly evaporates to leave soft, fresh and less tired legs!

It also smells so good that I could just wear it all over! The leg mist is a heady mix of sweet almonds and bergamot provides a clean and perky freshness. The menthol encourages fresh blood flow to the tired muscles of your legs. Unless you want tingly bits as it contains menthol, I'd advise not to spray it all over.

L'Occitane Elegant Legs Limited Edition is £13 for a 100ml pump spray. Available from 4th April 2011, UK website.

The Body Shop - Earth Lovers Shower Gels

2011-03-17T09:00:00.001Z

A few weeks ago I attended the launch of The Body Shop's latest new range - Earth Lovers, a range of 100% biodegradable shower gels. I was lucky enough to meet Oxfordshire based cookery writer, Sophie Grigson (I have one of her books at home) and she talked me through how to grow a basil plant from seed. So far I have killed more than I care to remember. Fingers crossed as the seeds have germinated and are growing madly on a window sill at home.

I was also lucky enough to meet Donnachadh McCarthy, a top UK eco-consultant and I am reading his book "Easy Eco-Auditing" in the hopes of making my workplace and home more planet-friendly.

I picked the Apricot and Basil shower gel and so far I've been really enjoying it as it is soap free so gentle and non drying. It is thinner than some other gels but the smell is powerful, lingers on the skin and great for bath and shower. At £5 for a 250ml bottle it is more expensive than your average shower gel from Tesco (cue Original Source my usual shower tipple) but the scent is rather unique and reminds me of fuzzy peach... anyone else remember that? We used to douse ourselves in it at school and the boys used to say we smelled "fruity" and were confused by it.

So far there are five uplifting and delicious scents to choose from in the range. Which would you try?

Available now from The Body Shop.

Mother's Day Idea 2

2011-03-16T08:00:00.000Z

Aromatherapy Associates New Little Luxuries box set is £12.00, which contains the Light Relax, De-Stress Mind and Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oils. Find it in a SpaceNK or online at the Aromatherapy Associates website.

What will you be giving your Mum? If I know my Mum, she'll just keep these on a shelf claiming they are too pretty to use! Like mother like daughter...

Mother's Day Idea 1

2011-03-15T10:04:00.004Z

The kit contains generous travel sizes of our Superskin Moisturiser (15ml), Superskin Concentrate (10ml), Superskin Body Cream (50ml) and a sample size of Superskin Eye & Lip Treatment.

Having tried all of these products, I would heartily recommend the Superskin body cream, it is divine!

The Gift is available from the Liz Earle website from March 7 to April 3rd 2011 for £30 (a saving of £12.90).

How to: Eyebrows

2011-03-14T11:59:00.002Z

Parting is such sweet sorrow. Give and Make Up.

2011-03-09T15:15:00.001Z

As you may have seen from my Youtube page, I have a little contest going on. It's called "Time to say goodbye". Many people thought that title meant I was leaving YouTube, in hindsight perhaps a different title would have been less dramatic! The contest has now closed and I really enjoyed reading all 700+ comments and laughing along to the insanity of keeping make up and sniffled at some of the sentimental reasons too. Thank you to everyone, all winners have been notified and prizes dispatched.

This was only a small part of a major spring clean I have undertaken. Fingers crossed Mr OJ and I will be moving in a few months time as we purchase our first family home together. I couldn't bear the thought of carrying all my collection to the new home so I have had a major reorganise.

With this in mind, I have been sorting out my items for Give and Make Up, which aims to help women who have left abusive relationships start again. The cosmetic products which are either slightly used or brand new but in good condition are distributed to these women who literally have nothing, they may have left in the middle of the night in fear of their own and their children's lives.

It's a great cause and I am only too happy to donate all of my surplus cosmetics products.

Here they are all packed up and ready to be shipped (for free by generous freepost benefactors BeautyBay). I'm slightly embarrassed that I have held on to so much stuff...

If you would like to know more about this brilliant initiative to help women who have escaped abusive relationships, then the Give and Make up web page is full of all the info you will need.

See my video below!

Lanolips Rose Balm Intense for very dry hands and nails review

2011-03-02T10:00:00.000Z

Lanolin is a by product of wool processing. No animals are harmed during the making of it, but they may get a bit chilly when they are shorn. Lanolin based lip products are my product of choice for lip balms especially using them at night. Lanolin is deeply moisturising and lasts a long time. I gave a tube of Lanolips 101 ointment to my sister (cue evil laugh) who is also now converted.

Buoyed by the success of the lip products, I started using Lanolips Rose Balm Intense hand cream. It's around £9 for a 50ml tube from stockists such as Boots, Victoria Health etc...

The Rose Balm is not your typical balm, it is not a solidified oil but a thick and waxy cream. In all honesty it has a similar consistency to Angel Delight (the strawberry one). Forgive the strange comparison but it is entirely true in my opinion.

When rubbing it in to the hands it feels more like a coating than a moisturising cream. It's not unpleasant by any means, sticky or oily but I find that it is not moisturising either. So I tend to only use it if I am going outside and facing the elements as it has more of a protective feel. Perhaps that is how it is meant to be used and not as a regular moisturiser. It's not a balm you can use several times a day without washing it away completely first as your hands feel very waxy. That sounds odd but for example, if you're in London for the day and only have antibacterial hand gel for cleansing, it's waxy!

A note about the scent, some people love the smell of baby lotion but I don't, unless it's on a baby! I was expecting an aromatherapy type rose scent and this was a bit of a surprise.

Unfortunately, I think it's not a repurchase for me as it doesn't fulfil my requirements from a hand cream; which are moisturising and long lasting, ability to layering without it rubbing off and non scented or something uplifting. I completely dig the tube though, long and thin, it's the perfect handbag choice. It is surprising how many hand creams are tubs and large tubes which take up more room than they should.

Sorry dudes at Lanolips, I love your 101 ointment though (cue evil laugh) and so does my sister :)

e.l.f Everyday 32 Eye Shadow Palettes

2011-02-28T09:00:00.000Z

These handy sized palettes were incredibly popular before Christmas 2010. So why not bring out two new versions for Spring? In the first photograph I've compared the Christmas palette with the Everyday Basics palette. The top two rows (16 shadows) are identical but the bottom 16 shadows are subtly different.

The everyday palette is definitely more subdued and softer, so it is great for natural looks and more so if you wish to branch out from brown! There is only one lonely matte shade in the palette and it is the top right hand corner (a soft taupe brown, a bit like Studio Pebble). The other shadows are split between glittery and satin shades. I would like to have seen a few more matte light shadows in this palette as I use them to set my primer, now I have to carry a separate one as this palette doesn't contain it. I also use darker matte shadows with an angled eyeliner brush to fill in eyebrows and as a liner. You see, they really should have consulted me first!

However, everyone regardless of age, colour and eye shape can wear these satin shades however a good matte base is necessary to prevent them slipping. In the absence of a matte light shadow, I use a translucent or my face powder instead.

Since getting this palette I've used it quite often and think it will come travelling with me next month as it is so versatile. Even more versatile dare I say it than my Urban Decay Naked Palette and my Coastal Scents Natural Palette because there are many more shades to play with. I am not sure how many more palettes I can cope with, I feel like a very neglectful make up hoarder. I need to get depotting or my other favourite single products will start to sulk! However, they are such great value and perfect for travelling that I can't help myself but use them. I recently attended a friends hen weekend and had 9 (including myself) gorgeous ladies to prepare, I did this using one Coastal Scents palette (the smoky eye) but would have loved this for day looks.

The second photograph is the Everyday Brights palette which contains some gorgeous shades which would be spectacular for a spring look or a party look. Again these are non matte shadows, predominantly satin finishes with a few glittery ones.

As you'd expect, swatches are paler and fainter for the lighter colours, but the darker colours come out true to the picture. If you like your eye shadows to be bold and bright, make sure to use a lighter eye lid base, perhaps use a lighter shade of foundation or concealer on the eyelids first. A pale base such as the white cream eye shadow, shadow and liner stick or studio eyelid primer also work well. To keep colours extra vibrant I use them with a slightly damp brush, which also reduces pesky fall out.

The palettes are £9 each from e.l.f cosmetics UK. Get them while you can as they are limited edition!

As you know, or maybe you didn't, I work for the company which operates e.l.f UK, this review is not only a heads up about their arrival but my honest opinion of the product. I am not paid to review these products as part of my role.

Yes to Tomatoes Totally Tranquil Facial Hydrating Lotion

2011-02-26T09:00:00.007Z

This white hydrating cream is great for oily/combination skins. It's a water/aloe vera based lotion so won't overload the skin, however it is packed with essential oils and natural extracts (such as chamomile, rosemary, red tea, tomatoes (of course), red pepper and ginkgo bilboa leaf).

Fully prepared and expecting it to smell like vegetable soup, I was most pleasantly surprised to discover the delightful scent of beautiful florals.

I have been using the hydrating cream for about a week now and I am not growing tired of the smell or texture. It leaves my skin soft and plump without greasiness. It works very well with my foundation, whether liquid, tinted moisturiser, mineral or cream to powder, too many foundations, moi? ;-) So I am quietly impressed.

There are several types of products to try from the Yes To range - all fruit and veggie inspired that have been developed for different skin types. After a bit of Googling, I found the range in the UK on beautybay.com. But if you want to find out more about the ranges, check out the US site.

Swatchy Goodness, e.l.f Studio Tinted Moisturisers

2011-02-25T14:15:00.004Z

Seven of the most popular shades, applied directly with no blending. Blending in results in a very light almost undetectable finish.

If you're not an avid foundation wearer but do not wish to face the world with a naked face, you've probably tried a tinted moisturiser. With only one or two colours to choose from, it's not really been a successful product for me.

If you wish to add "something", be it glow, to your bare skin as well as some SPF 20 (good for antiageing as well as protecting), then here's the latest product to reach Europe from e.l.f. the SPF 20 Tinted Moisturiser (£3.50 for 25ml tube).

As it contains pigments it is not going to be as hydrating or oily as a regular moisturiser. To my dry/combination skin it felt light and was easily absorbed. Before use give it a good shake to make sure the formula is mixed properly, it can separate if left too cold or too warm. I was wondering whether I would get the tell tale bloom effect, where pigment is left behind to cling to dry bits. It didn't do this.

Coverage is very light and smooth. Do not expect to hide discolouration and blemishes using this alone, I find I require a light concealer afterwards for spots and marks. This light consistency does make any colour mismatch rather forgiving. I could easily use Beige, Sand or Almond and make it look natural with blending. A little goes a long way as well, one small squeeze is enough for face and neck. The formula is matte, it doesn't contain any shimmer, so why not mix in your favourite liquid highlighter for an added glow? I am using NARS Orgasm liquid illuminator which works quite well with my skin tone, but you could use an e.l.f shimmering facial whip in your favourite colour too.

Those of the ultra pale variety will probably find the porcelain shade too yellow, similarly for deeper skin tones espresso will be too light as I would say it is about an NW50, perhaps a bit lighter.

You may need to reapply around the mouth and nose during the day because the cover is so light, it is easily wiped away but I wouldn't say that it transfers like full coverage foundations.

I prefer this tinted moisturiser to some foundations, it does not settle in fine lines or pores and blends very well to a soft, natural finish.

Please feel free to ask a question about these tinted moisturisers, I shall do my best to reply.

I am also testing out the flawless finish foundation and cream eyeshadow (so far so good). They haven't arrived yet in the UK but are due soon. The perks of the job no less.

**In response to a question, I thought I'd answer it here. The consistency is not comparable to the SPF15 Shielding hydrotints. They are quite different, the SP20 Studio moisturisers are drier with more pigment. Which is great for oilier skins as it does not load the skin with extra oil.

In terms of colour.

Hydrotint Ivory is lighter than Studio Porcelain

Hydrotint Rosy Beige is less yellow than Studio Porcelain and a good alternative for neutral/pink based complexions.

Hydrotint Apricot Beige is closest to Studio Nude

Hydrotint Light Beige is closest to Studio Beige

Hydrotint Honey is closest to Studio Sand

Hydrotint Spice is between Sand and Almond

Hydrotint Toffee is darker than both Studio Espresso and Mocha

Lush Dream Cream Review

2011-02-23T09:00:00.000Z

I was 19 when I purchased my first pot of Dream Cream from Lush in Kingston, I had a friend who was 30 (she seemed very wise to my 19 year old self) and she raved about it so I had to try it. I remember being slightly disappointed as I didn't love the earthy smell of tea tree mixed with lavender. It has grown on me over the years and I have gone through countless tubs since then. I had a little break from it for the last few years and then was given some the other week. Dubious and delighted were my reactions on recognising that nostalgic but odd scent of lavender and tea tree. I was instantly transported back to being 19, and having a precious pot of it.

Dream Cream (£10.25 for 240g tub) is a medium thickness hand and body cream. It feels almost like a gel. You can use it on the face but beware of the tea tree if you are sensitive as it is quite strong. It is, light olive green colour and smells most strongly of lavender and tea tree. The main ingredients and emollients are oat milk (so beware of sensitivity), rosewater and olive oil. Chuck in some essential oils and whip it all together and you have a tasty treat for your skin.

I find this is a great cream for hands more so than the body, as it's not quite rich enough to last the day without layering up, which just then feels too heavy like a body butter. But I do keep a pot of this by the bed and computer during the day. It is light enough to use a finger-full after washing hands and use a keyboard without leaving greasy marks everywhere. It definitely hydrates and soothes dry hands and makes them look youthful by hydrating dry cuticles. I depot a little and keep it in my handbag also.

Dream cream is also light enough to use as a cleanser, just be sure to remove it thoroughly from around the eyes or it will make them puff up overnight as it is very hydrating (double edged sword).

Dream Cream is available from a Lush store or online from www.lush.co.uk

Liz Earle Body Brush Review

2011-02-22T12:00:00.000Z

I have a small stubborn patch of cellulite. I think being a runner and cyclist actually makes cellulite look worse because of the hard muscle underneath gives the adipose tissue nothing to blend in to and hide! So my legs may not wobble but they have bumpy bits just like the rest of womanhood.

I started body brushing in mid January 2011 and maybe did it three times a week. At first it was scratchy and uncomfortable. The official advice is to start brushing very lightly to get used to it. I don't expect that it gets any more comfortable but you begin to understand your skin's tolerance and limits.

So as the name depicts, a stiff brush is held either in your palm of on the end of the detachable handle. Take the brush and start at your feet, brushing upwards from the toes to tops of the legs. Do both feet and legs in this way. Then start on your bottom and waist, always brushing towards the heart. This helps move stubborn fluid in to the lymph glands to drain away. Then from the arms and down the body to the heard.

My skin goes a little pink, and after a while I find the tingling sensation enlivening. I find it warms me up so I need to turn down the shower temperature.

After your body brushing and shower, complete by using a light but silky body cream (Liz Earle Energising Body Cream is rather good too). However you don't have to body brush before a shower, sometimes I do it before I go to bed.

A very important note:

It's important that if you are undertaking an intensive body brushing regime that you cut down your fat intake to a manageable level (70g of fat is normal). Body brushing can release more fats in to the blood stream. You may need to decrease your fat intake and increase your exercise level to prevent it from being laid down in fatty deposits. If you're concerned, you should consult your doctor first, always.

I have ended up enjoying body brushing but a couple of weeks I forget to do it. I suppose with any beauty regime that's the danger. I didn't notice a huge difference, I still had the same dry patches of skin and cellulite too (boo) but it did feel more toned as it encourages better blood flow to the skin so it did look better in terms of glow. Personally I would prefer a good massage than body brushing for those effects.

The upshot of the trial is that if you like body brushing it has some benefits to your skin tone and texture, but I wouldn't get your hopes up of curing cellulite or ingrown hairs.

Thanks to Liz Earle for the Body Brush and Energising Body Cream for my trial.

Wrinkle Filler Review - Soap and Glory Fill Monty

2011-02-19T08:30:00.001Z

I have been oggling and stalking several wrinkle fillers for the last year or so, and so bit the proverbial bullet a few weeks ago to try to sort out some unappetising frown lines appearing between by eyebrows and also laughter lines around my mouth. I am far too squeamish to consider injections in my face, it kind of doesn't go with my growing old gracefully attitude. I also didn't want to buy creams which contain ingredients which relax facial muscles. I feel that's a bit of a cheat and I just want a cosmetic effect with zero interference beneath the surface.

So after much stalking I settled upon a lower end priced filler, Soap and Glory's Fill Monty Dab-on wrinkle filler. At around £10 for a 12ml pot (about the size of a mineral eye shadow pot), it was worth a try.

Fill Monty is a water and glycerine based, white, fairly thick cream which contains various polymers. These cross over each other to form a kind of mesh. These mesh in theory acts as a bridge over your "dermal canyons" as I like to call them. You can then layer foundation over and no one will be any the wiser!

So did it work? Dabbing hopefully at my forehead I prepared my skin. I applied a mineral foundation and went off for the day. Several times I had to re-dab the wrinkle to push the product back in, eventually giving up and wiping it away as it was not helping! So sadly I have to report that even after several further uses, this product did not fill my fine lines and keep them filled.

However, I am not disappointed and I do have something good to say about the product that would lead me to consider buying it again. I have found it to be an excellent primer for dry skin. It is instantly hydrating and yet mattifies the skin ready for your chosen make up (powder, cream or liquid). I used it on my friend when she came over for her bridal make up trial and we both liked the effect. However I do need to get a separate wrinkle filler now.

If you have any suggestions for brands I could investigate, please leave a comment below.

The Quest for Symmetry

2011-02-17T14:45:00.005Z

Bodies and faces are never symmetrical. Some people have features that have better symmetry than others, and these people are often found to be more attractive than those without. Psychologists tell us that this is because the brain is simple and finds symmetry easy to recognise without having to stress over the nuances. We are programmed to recognise symmetry as beautiful, perhaps because it is nearly impossible to attain in a complex system.

I am often asked about how to make faces appear more symmetrical. So here's a method that is easy and quick. Start with a photograph, I am using my passport photo.

(I used a graphics programme to digitally flip half my face to mirror.) However you can do this by using a mirror down the middle of your face. Now look at the image in the mirror and on the photograph. It should look like mine below. Turn the mirror over to see the other side.

You can see in the pictures below what I would look like if each side of my face were mirror images.

This is a great way to see where you can work to find symmetry. Work out the features you like or wish to diminish on each side of the face. I prefer aspects of each side of my face and I try to incorporate them in to my make up.

On my left hand side I prefer my slim nose and wider mouth.

On my right hand side I prefer my more round eyes and pointed jaw line.

So when you look at these aspects you can contour the opposite side of the face to match.

The middle photo is my natural face, I have not contoured anywhere.

But you can now see where I should concentrate to achieve more symmetry.

On my left hand side, contour the chin to shave off the squareness and bring it to a point and open up the eye with liner on the upper lashes.

On my right hand side, contour the nose to make it slimmer and outline the lips to widen them to match.

It feels really weird looking at the two faces either side my face, they are not me!

left

normal

right

I wrote this article a week ago and then watched a programme last night which confirmed my thoughts about symmetry.

I am working on a tutorial about how to achieve greater symmetry using techniques that I use in my make up and on clients.

Big Hair! Organic Colour Systems - Spray Gel Review

2011-02-09T09:00:00.002Z

So how does someone suffering from thinning hair get BIG HAIR? It's not impossible and I couldn't wait to share my find of a product that really helps.

A friend on Twitter heard my plea for product suggestions as I was trying to find products that would work with my fine and thin hair that didn't weigh it down or make it look like plastic frizz.

I shall be eternally grateful to Sally Learmouth from Gloss Communications for bringing this product to my attention. I went online just before Christmas and bought it from Karine Jackson (online store) for £8.95 for 250ml. I was very lucky to receive it before Christmas with all of the postal delays and problems!

It's a really easy product to use, I have a few tips for those with fine hair like mine that will make it work really well.

Wait until your hair in 80% dry before spraying lightly in to the roots and long the length of the hair. Leave to dry naturally and do not comb through whilst it is wet or your hair will stick together and take on that gelled look!

Use a straightener, waver, curlers or barrel tong on the roots to give them lift. The gel spray really comes in to its own then, holding the curl and giving thickness to your hair which lasts about 2 days. Spray lightly once your hair is dry to hold the curl and prevent frizz. It really is that easy!

I love the product, it smells fruity and a little goes a long way. I am tempted to stock up in case there is a worldwide shortage!

Next time I am in London and have time, I think I would like to book a hair appointment at Karine Jackson for a cut and style. That is a bold thing for me to say considering I have a pathological hatred of having hair cuts. Some people dread the dentist, I dread the hair dresser in the same way!

When it comes to fine hair, it's very hard to find a stylist who knows what they are doing and doesn't make you feel like a freak of nature for being a woman with thin hair.

So I'll report back if I decide to pluck up the courage to go to a swanky salon and face my hair demons.

The Curling versus Volumising Mascara Smackdown.

2011-02-05T09:00:00.000Z

On each eye I am wearing a different mascara. One claims to be a volumising one and the other is a curling one. I have curled both lashes mechanically and applied them in the same way.

So can you honestly tell which is which? Go on have a guess and leave a comment.

If you put your guess in a comment, I shall also post a comment with the answer!

Raw Skin Food Review

2011-02-04T08:30:00.000Z

100% allergen free, vegan and gluten free skin care products. The website is fairly easy to use once you have a good look at all the functions, but could be better as it is a little "busy" looking with popups and flash animation on the front page that are prone to glitching in browsers (geek alert!). You can also find a list of stockists on the website.

If you'd like to see some models using the range then watch the YouTube channel here.

After describing my skin as combination/sensitive and prone to flare ups of rosacea. I was advised to try and sent 3 products for my review.

Mab Fabulous Gentle Facial Cleansing Milk, £7.20 for 100ml.

Ingredients: Rose Water, Rice Bran Oil, Coconut butter, Cherry Kernel Oil, Ylang ylang essential oil.

A lightweight white milky liquid with a slight cherry scent which is very pleasant. The cleanser really does have the consistency of milk, so be careful when pouring it! However the consistency works for removing eye make up using cotton wool pads. I warm the product a little by pouring about a 10-pence- sized amount in to my palm. Then I massage over the face and neck. I remove using a damp face cloth or cotton wool pads.

My ultimate test of a cleanser is to take a toner soaked cotton wool pad and sweep over the face and eyes to check if any make up has been left behind. No residue was found apart from a waterline eye liner and mascara. I now concentrate a little more massage around the eyes and pay attention when removing with a damp cloth.

Mab Fabulous Soothing Face & Body Tonique, £8 for 100ml spray bottle.

Ingredients: Organic Rose Water, Rice bran oil, Coconut butter, Cherry kernel oil, Ylang ylang essential oil.

This is a oil and water mixture in a spray bottle, it smells mainly of the Ylang ylang essential oil. It's almost a musky fragrance, not unpleasant (reminds me of dream cream by Lush) and quite uplifting.

I was delighted to try about this product, a moisturising toner which can be used all over the face and body for a quick moisture fix. However at lower temperatures (anything below 15 degrees C) it turns the cocoa butter solid. My solution is to pop it in the sink in some warm water prior to use. I put it in as I am putting on my cleanser and getting my face cloth ready and in a few minutes it is ready to use. Shake to mix the contents and spray a fine mist over your face after cleansing or spray on to a cotton wool pad and sweep over the face. I would like to try this as a moisture fix for when I use mineral foundations to see if it can eliminate the cling-on factor. I'll also be keeping tabs on it to see how it fares in summer (fingers crossed for some heat) as I would love to keep it with me in my bag as a refresher spray and for use on holiday. There is no SPF in this product for info.

Imperial Whipped Complex Face and Body Balm, £8.80 for a 50ml tub.

Ingredients: Mango butter, Coconut butter, Lemongrass essential oil.

An opaque mixture of butters and oils which at room temperature is solid. As the name suggests, it has been whipped in to a light and creamy texture and smells strongly of lemongrass (a cross between ginger and lemon sort of scent). Again it is an uplifting scent that makes me inhale deeply.

I apply a balm mainly at night or if I am going out in to windy or low temperatures. I rub a small amount on to my finger tips and tap on to the face and neck. Then gently sweep across the face and down the neck to encourage lymphatic drainage. After the oily feeling subsides I am left with soft and plump feeling skin.

I wouldn't use this balm on the rest of my body, although you can on rough parts like elbows, knees and feet, simply because it is a small pot that I would soon exhaust.

A few days after receiving the Imperial Whipped balm it began to separate into oil and wax. I took a spatula and whipped it up again, but it does separate again.

Why should you buy it?

Reasonable prices, helpful staff, Vegan, cruelty free, hand crafted, no perfumes or synthetic ingredients which are organic and fair trade. So many good reasons!

Why it might not be for you.

I found it hard to find a reason why this might not be for you other than the separation and solidification issues with waxes and temperature. I guess it depends on where you stand with budget and if you like perfumes and expensive packaging?

www.rawskinfood.co.uk

How to get great passport/ID photographs

2011-02-02T09:00:00.000Z

It's that time again, I need a new passport. With that comes the need for photographs!

I decided to put some thought in to how to make my passport photographs look good, rather than make me look too ill travel!

The tutorial ended up a bit longer than I thought, so it's split in to two videos!

AD Skin Synergy Essential Cleansing Balm Review

2011-01-31T09:00:00.001Z

AD Skin Synergy aim to provide skincase using the finest natural and organic ingredients. The thing I like about facial balms are that they are suitable for every skin type and condition. The skin takes what it needs whether it is oilier or drier.

The products are free from petrochemicals, artificial perfumes, parabens and colourants. The range is also cruelty free.

I was provided with a tub of the Essential Cleansing Balm and muslin cloth for my review. The two are used together for best results.

The list of ingredients is very long but the balm is basically a mixture of essential oils, beeswax and plant oils such as rose flower, jasmine (yay!), lavender, coconut, jojoba and chamomile to name a few. The balm is a very pale yellow colour and melts on the fingers in to a fragrant cleansing oil.

The best way to use it is to take a small amount and massage it gently over the face and neck. I let it sit for a few moments as it needs a little time to thoroughly dissolve oils and waxes from your make up and any dirt.

Wet the muslin cloth with warm water and work down and outwards from the forehead, over the eyes gently, paying attention round the nose and down the neck. If you need to repeat do so with a rinsed cloth.

My skin was left feeling cleansed (I checked with a toner soaked cotton wool pad for any residue of make up of which there was none), soft, not greasy but not dry either. This has been a real hit as it takes everything off in one go without having to use too much. I can also use it to massage and tone my face.

My initial fear was that as the tub is small it wasn't going to last very long. I have since learned to use it more sparingly as a little goes a long way.

At £26 for 45ml tub from AD Skin Synergy website (UK postage is free). It is more expensive than other cleansing balms I have tried but I feel that it is highly effective, it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin and it is full of great quality ingredients. It is suitable for all types and ages of skin too.

The other non-skin related reason I warmed to this brand straightaway and feel that it's not actually too expensive is that AD Skin Synergy has taken on board several ethical considerations to its business. I didn't expect this when I opened the sleek silver packaging, which resembles Lancome to some extent.

The roses used in the essential oil are organic and ethically traded, but they are also grown in a community enterprise made up of more than 500 separate farms. These people work together and are rewarded at a fair rate for their long hours and intensive manual labour.

All of the orders packed in the warehouse are done so in partnership with a social enterprise, giving training, motivation, and jobs to those with disabilities. All of the profits from this social enterprise are reinvested to provide further training and jobs. This is excellent, I am so delighted with this. I firmly believe that it is possible to make money and run a sustainable, smart and ethical business.

In my opinion, a good balm is a must have essential skin care product, even better from a socially and environmentally sustainable business like AD Skin Synergy.

Have you heard the "Good News" - The Food Bible.

2011-01-28T08:00:00.000Z

In defence of diets, some people really benefit from a regime, you might say that it makes life easy. Sadly I am not one of those people. I have an insatiable need to understand the rationale of a diet and most of them just fall flat for me. I also enjoy food and cooking, so I don't want low fat prepared meals or God forbid reconstituted shakes or soups. I would just rather die.

If you too are like me then I can whole-heartedly recommend this book, The Food Bible by Judith Wills. You can find it on Amazon in several editions. I bought this book after borrowing it from the library to find out more about nutrition. This was five years ago. It was such a great book I didn't want to give it back and decided to buy my first and only* "diet" book! *I did once try the Food Doctor and was very ill with migraines and sickness. I also found the recipes were disgustingly unappetising and unsatisfying. I am not that extreme and feeling like that is not worth it for some weight loss.

I can only say that when I am following Judith's sage advice, I have had better sleep, periods, weight control, skin and blood pressure. The first time I tried the plan in the book, I dropped 2 dress sizes without effort. There was no need to shred or go mad in the gym. You can comfortably lose 2lbs of real weight a week following the simple guidance in this book.

This book is about breaking and making new habits for life, it is a daily reference manual for me about what to eat at stages in my life and how to tackle health issues with nutrition and medication. If you want to find out how to kick sugar, fats and salt, and enjoy healthy appetising and satisfying food this is THE book for you too.

I enjoy cooking all of the recipes in the book, however dubious they sound, they turn out beautifully, they taste amazing and even Mr OJ is happy. I do still eat chocolate and bake cakes, but I don't rely on them for comfort.

After about two months of dedication, steady weight loss and happiness I tend to stray and then come back to this book consistently. It is always on the recipe book stand in the kitchen, open to the 1500 calories a day, 7 day eating plan or a recipe I want to make later on.

So for all those weight watchers, slim fasters and shredders out there, are you setting yourself up to fail with short termism? You really need to change the link between emotions and food as well as your lifestyle and not just for a few months but forever. Only then will you truly break free of it's grip.

No one escapes the make over chair!

2011-01-26T17:00:00.001Z

It's true, no one escapes the make over chair, mwuaahahahahaha!

Kemba is no exception. Our husbands are good friends but we had never met before, but I feel now that we have bonded over make up. She probably still thinks I am quite mad though.

Kemba tells me that before she moved to the UK and got married she was a fervent wearer of make up. Now when she goes for a visit she feels completely under dressed make up wise as her friends still love to wear bright and striking make up.

Barefaced apart from a light buff of mineral foundation by Obsessed Minerals.

To remedy this, Kemba and I decided to create a carnival inspired look using gold, a hint of orange and charcoal with a light dusting of irridescent sparkle for that Rio de Janeiro show girl look!

The show stopping look.

Products used:

Urban Decay Primer Potion

Sugar Pill Chromalust loose eye shadow in Gold

Coastal Scents Smokey Palette (36 shades)

Bourjois Ultra Care Mascara

NYX Eye liner in Black

e.l.f Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Luminance

Obsessed Minerals Lip gloss in Hot Child

Next up was a more wearable smoky eye look with a hint of colour.

I didn't like the lipstick although it's a wonderful everyday colour for Kemba, it doesn't go with a smoky eye! I did put on a bright fuchsia but Kemba was scared witless by it!

Personally I think it was awesome.

So we switched back to the Hot Child lipgloss by Obsessed Minerals.

Products used in this look:

NYX jumbo pencil in black bean

Coastal Scents Smokey eye palette of 36 colours.

Bourjois Ultra Care Volume mascara

Sleek Blusher

Lumiere Cosmetics Loose Corrector setting powder in Sunflower.

O2 Intraceuticals Infusion Facial with Julia Hart

2011-01-25T08:00:00.000Z

Earlier this month I was lucky enough to be invited to Julia Hart's Treatment Rooms at the Hale Clinic in West London for a O2 Intraceuticals Infusion Facial.

Julia is a leading holistic skin therapist who combines high technology treatments and skincare with an in depth knowledge of nutrition and natural therapies. Julia offers tailor made treatments and is very choosy about the products she recommends for both treatments and at home for her clients.

After an introductory discussion about my skin and sensitivities, I was soon relaxing under a blanket preparing for the facial. A pre cleanse and massage was refreshing and relaxing. I didn't much like the professional Clarisonic as combined with steam it stung a little on my sensitive skin. I am such a wimp when it comes to scrubbing my face, I am a lover not a fighter and prefer peaceful resolution! Although not painful, I didn't find it a pleasant sensation.

I didn't really know what to expect from Hollywood's best kept secret, Madonna being a top fan of this treatment. I can honestly see why she loves it as I did too and I will go on to explain.

Julia takes an airbrush with a high pressure compressor attached. The hyperbaric O2 (higher concentration of oxygen) is used to carry the O2 rejuvenating serum deep in to the skin. Deeper than you can go with conventional non invasive (needle) treatments. The serum contains plenty of hyaluronic acid and antioxidants that are great for plumping, smoothing and nourishment.

After the treatment, which is stimulating but comfortable as the air tickles my nose, my skin felt soft and radiant. I can say that I was more wrinkle free than I have been in a decade. I noted in particular that around the eyes and between my eye brows, I was line free. All wrinkles were reduced and flattened out.

This is not a permanent effect alas, this treatment only lasts up to 7 days at most. I would thoroughly recommend it for a pre wedding or special occasion treatment if you have fine lines and want some radiance and plumping for your special day. If you have been unwell and have dehydrated or congested skin, which I had, then this is the perfect treatment for you. It is a little more expensive than a standard facial treatment but the effects last longer and are visibly impressive.

Thank you Julia for introducing me to this fantastic treatment, I am already scanning my diary for an excuse to come again.

Treatments start from £120 each, find out more from www.juliahart.co.uk

Second chance Sunday - UNE Soft Minerals Powder Foundation

2011-01-23T08:00:00.004Z

Over the years I've been given second chances by lots of people and in turn it's only fair to give some in return.

I have an apology to make to a certain product. Every time I looked at it, I shook my head disappointedly. Well not today amigo! Today is Second Chance Sunday, and I have chosen the pressed mineral foundation by UNE.

When I first tried it over the summer I simply hated it. It made my skin look like it was peeling as it clung to dry bits and dried out my skin to give me wrinkly baggy bits that I like to believe weren't there to begin with (but cannot be too sure).

So as a summer product it is not for me, however in winter it fares much better. Perhaps my skin is oilier or it interacts better with my winter skin care regime? Who knows?

But there was something very good about the colour range, it suited me perfectly. It made my skin look radiant and clear. I had to do a double take past a mirror as it was such a surprise.

UNE as a brand has been a real slow grower for me. The whole range is nearly entirely organic and I love that it is accessibly priced. It is not cheap but it isn't overly expensive either. The range is easy to buy as you can pick your shades and you will find corresponding shades across the rest of the range (say I am M08 in Foundation, I will find a corresponding concealer and powder) So it's not difficult to pick up an entire natural make up capsule from this range.

It just looks so boring! I understand it is minimal and recyclable but in an aisle of Boots it just does not shine amongst the gaudy packaging of other brands which entice and enthuse. The colours all look the same, so the subtle differences and complementary nature don't shine through in the 2 second glance it is given. Unless you know it's good, I guarantee you won't give it a second glance. I fear for the brand; it will not last long on the high turnover premium space in Boots. So get to know it whilst it's there!

One hugely important piece of advice with this brand is to use primers on the eyes and face! The products do not last or stay put without them. But if you are looking for a range of natural, beautiful tones which will suit your skin tone (i.e are not to pink or yellow) then this might be for you.

So UNE, I've given you a second chance and I'm so glad I did.

Do you have any products which deserve a second chance?

Contest Time!

2011-01-21T11:35:00.001Z

Follow and subscribe to enter, then follow the instructions on the video!

The Friendly Flick Tutorial

2011-01-19T13:16:00.006Z

The rationale behind this Friendly Flick is that I feel that sales assistants should take note. Flamboyant and visually stunning make up may make you look amazing but to a customer it just looks intimidating. 99% of women (and that is a made up statistic but in my anecdotal evidence seems correct) don't want to look like a make up sales assistant. Customers want help with foundation/concealer colours and formulations and eye and lip colours that suit them, you know the ordinary make up that makes them feel human! It also has to be easy as the average person hasn't got the time and patience for something complicated requiring many brushes and tools!

I would thoroughly recommend Pixi (off Carnaby Street) and The Make Up Store as their assistants were friendly, helpful and not too made up. They looked like regular people with lovely make up!

Anyway, enough of my wisdom (read rant). Enjoy the friendly flick tutorial and let me know how you get on!

11 essential brushes for 2011

2011-01-17T10:24:00.003Z

Make up brushes are big business, there is one to suit every possible application technique and formulation. Here are my essential eleven for 2011.

Do you have any favourite brushes, please tell me in a comment.

Mend your brushes!

2011-01-10T17:00:00.000Z

I came across this method whilst I was drying some brushes. I had just finished my sister in laws make up and needed to then do mine, I quickly washed the brushes and left them to dry on a hot plate of my hair crimper.

It got very hot and loosened the glue. After an initial, uhoh, I left it to cool and it reset with no problems. It didn't take a genius to work out that I could take a separated brush head with glue still inside and handle and use heat to mend them together again! You are very welcome to call me a genius but I am just glad that I can save brushes from landfill and give them a new lease of life.

A note about plastic brushes, these are not suitable for this type of mend, I advise you to use glue.

Contouring and Highlighting Basics.

2011-01-06T17:00:00.001Z

I am often asked about highlighting and contouring. This video covers the very basics using liquids to sculpt and refine features. I have a round and flat face so I love contouring and highlighting to bring out features such as my eyes and cheeks, also to change the shape of my face to more of an appealing oval.

I use waterproof camouflage liquids (Varama) as they last a lot longer than powders and have a more natural/believable finish. This technique is great for photography and video - indoors, outdoors, colour or Black/White.

Whatever you decide to use, for a natural finish use matte products and add any shimmer sparingly afterwards. Pick and choose the aspects of your face you feel need this technique, not everyone needs more cheekbones, a smaller forehead or nose sculpting. You might be emphasising or de-emphasising features that don't need it or will unbalance the final look.

You may also find that you wish to tone down the effect by using shades which are nearer your skin tone, until you get used to blending down. A perfect use for foundations and concealers which you have bought and are too light or too dark.

I apologise in advance if this video seems rushed, there's so much to say and do in a short video!

New Year's Resolutions, no thanks!

2011-01-03T09:45:00.009Z

Welcome to 2011! Enjoying it so far? At this time of year I have trouble getting enthusiastic about cold weather, dark evenings and trying to keep warm! January is such a bad time to make resolutions! However, I'm very good at making resolutions and keeping to them, I don't need a New Year though. I started my resolutions before Christmas and so far they are going quite well.

Keeping fit, this hasn't suffered as much as I feared due to the snow. I couldn't get out to have a run but I did use our exercise bike at least 3 times a week. In addition to running 3 times a week my fitness levels haven't suffered too much. I recommend a plan that is published on the NHS website which eases you in to running over a 9 week plan. I used something similar which involved being patient with yourself and not expecting too much. Start jogging, stop when you need to, walk through the breathlessness or heart rate rise and then begin again. Keep going until you can't do any more. If you do this several times a week it won't seem like a punishment and the buzz you get for reaching a goal (i.e leaving the house in the cold) is worth it. Don't expect to run miles after a few weeks, but do push yourself a bit every run. Don't forget to stretch before and after and stop if you feel any pain.

Cooking. I started trying out a few new recipes before Christmas, some classics like lasagne (from Gordon Ramsay's recipe), healthy casseroles that my husband loves and easy fresh desserts. I only have one rule of healthy eating and it works for me; never eat junk food during the day. But eat a lot to keep up your energy and motivation not to snack. Don't skimp or go without breakfast and lunch, I find I have more energy and better concentration if I have about 3 meals and 2 sizeable snacks a day. This is not a diet, this is a lifestyle choice and habit I have built for the rest of my life. There's no need in my opinion to diet, if you eat a balanced diet, don't deny yourself some of life's pleasurable eating experiences. Eating in this way has given me a healthy dislike of toxic food like fried food and processed food. If you can't make it yourself from fresh and healthy ingredients, it's not worth eating.

I don't live in denial either, I do like a good dessert though but I only eat desserts I have made myself or if eating out, there is no hiding from the sugar, chocolate and butter included if you make it yourself and take responsibility for those calories and fat. Remember that dessert is not a treat, if you classify it as one you will never break your cycle of rewarding good behaviour with something bad. You find that you will eat less if you have to make it yourself as well and instead might go for a satsuma, yoghurt, hot chocolate or fruit pieces in jelly which is much easier to prepare! One of my favourite desserts at the moment is frozen berries with a pot of melted chocolate, just a small portion of chocolate, less than a single bar but it's a great way to get your vitamins, fresh fruit and a bit of a chocolate hit.

Moving house, yes again but this time we are giving up the free wheeling rental lifestyle in favour for becoming home owners. I personally hate house hunting and I am not interested in a property that needs renovation either. So it makes our choice fairly easy and now I have fingers crossed that we have a few to choose from.

Work. Work is going well, I feel strange calling it work as it doesn't feel that way. As New Business Manager, my role is pretty good fun and I enjoy the hard work. Things are going to be getting busy with opportunities going forward in 2011.

Relaxing. My other resolution is to make sure I take regular breaks and plan for those well in advance. Too many times last year did I forget to book time off and have to move my plans around for commitments beyond my control. I'd like to spend more time with my family and friends too, moving away from Oxford made it difficult to keep up with friends. Also going back to full time work and working from home make it harder to arrange casual meet ups over lunch and dinner.

Blogging and YouTube. My channels have never been part of the race for subscribers and income so I have no targets related to that. Instead I shall be concentrating on quality. I am investing in new software to improve the quality of videos as I have a great camera but the software and YouTube seem hell bent on making them look rubbish! Life as it is will mean that I won't have as much time as I have in the past to post but I do intend to produce high quality and informative videos. I think I will probably concentrate more on skin care tutorials and natural make up as I like making those videos. If it doesn't work for me or I can't wear it out, then I'm not interested in sharing the review of the products, tips for techniques and final looks. I know my audience and you're all like I was; confused about which make up and looks to wear that will look natural and flattering. 99% of women I meet don't want to look like they are wearing make up! I may occasionally give you a little more challenging looks to stretch and flex my make up muscles and skills but generally I shall leave the more extreme and celebrity looks to those with more time and accomplishment to do those.

So those are my not quite New Year Resolutions! Do you have any?

Sneaky Stena Line purchase.

2010-12-30T15:34:00.006Z

Bored out of my brain on the ferry, I am writing this from the lounge. Thank heavens for free wireless internet! There is free wine but I think that mixed with the motion will not have a good result...

The small shop on the ferry wasn't a total waste of time, although it had mainly all the same lines as the last time I was on the ferry, dusty and unloved, a few boxes of chanel and dior as well as the ever present clinique and clarins sets. However, I was delighted to find a few Urban Decay products on a display in the shop. Not deterred by the messy and dusty display I decided to not purchase the shadows as they had all been opened or likely shattered from being tossed about the shelf. I decided to purchase the mini 24/7 glide on pencil set. It was obviously meant to be as I had cursed myself that I missed out on the set from Urban Decay last Christmas. I know that Urban Decay are bringing out an anniversary set next year and I intend to purchase that one too. I have a few UD pencils mainly black, brown and purple (lust) and I think they are unsurpassed in terms of quality, colour and longevity.

The set of 24/7 pencils comprises 9 travel sized (about 1/2 the full size) and one full size in Zero (black). The travel size colours from left to right are all creamy metallics: Eldorado (gold), Whiskey (taupe brown), Stash (dark khaki green), Mildew (olive), Electric (turquoise), Ransom (indigo), Binge (dark blue), Rockstar (plum) and Gunmetal (grey).

Shaky picture taken using my phone and in the lounge!

Back to my New Year break, see you when I get back!

What are you favourite eye liners?

Post Christmas Cleanse and De-Stress

2010-12-26T17:43:00.004Z

Feeling a little stressed post Christmas or wanting to prepare your skin for New Year's Eve? My de stress facial will help!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T14:48:00.002Z

Have a wonderful holiday!

A few new videos will be up on my channel shortly, to see you through the festive holiday and prepare you for New Year!

I have given everyone strict instructions not to get me any cosmetics for Christmas but I think I'll be hitting the sales come Boxing Day!

Gone but not forgotten, the exit interview!

2010-12-22T17:00:00.002Z

This is a post about some products I have recently finished and I thought I would give them an exit review.

From left to right

Alva Sanddorn Facial Tonic £15.50/100ml. A pretty great toner even if I do say so myself. I used it remove my cream cleansers. It is great for dry skin as it is alcohol free and very gentle. It doesn't have a sticky feeling that you can sometimes get with alcohol free toners that rely on lots of glycerin to hydrate. Although is contains a few oils it does not feel oily either. It also doesn't leave my skin feeling tight and uncomfortable. I did power through it quite quickly and I'll give a few other toners a go before I decide whether to purchase a new bottle.

Amie Bright Eyes Very Gentle Make-up Remover. £4.75/125ml. I used to be able to buy this at Superdrug but I haven't been able to find it but it is available from the website. I did like this eye make up remover, it really is gentle on the eyes with no drying or stinging. It does lift off make up and shadow very easily. However it is no match for waterproof, cream or pencil/wax make up, that's half of my eye make up! So I won't be replacing this bottle.

Faith in Nature Seaweed Shower Gel & Bath Foam £3.70/400ml. I think this range is superb if you're looking for a eco-ethical-conscious brand. It's such an easy buy and choice. The smell and bubbles were acceptable however I did have to use a lot of it in a bath. As a consequence, I rocketed through this bottle! I would buy this again, simply as I support this brand. You can buy it from Oxfam stores, so I am only too happy to buy and also give at the same time.

Original Source Summer Shower Gel. Prices range from £1 to £3 depending on offers. Available from Supermarkets and Chemists. A brilliant all round shower gel that both my husband and I use every day. I have just started using the Winter edition (Pepper and Cardamom) which is heavenly. I normally stock up on these when they are on offer, as well the handwashes. I will certainly be buying more of this in the future, but perhaps not this scent. I am more keen on buttery/woody scents than fruit.

LUSH Breath of Fresh Air Skin Toner £3.25/100g bottle. I mainly used this during the summer as a skin refresher, a lovely fresh rose and rosemary scent. I have since repurchased this in the larger size and Eau Roma which I think will suit me more for winter. I use this to remove cream cleaners or a quick spray if I've used a wet cloth to remove face wash products.

Liz Earle Hand Repair £14.50 for 100ml. This is a small travel sized tube, and I am quite glad I find that some Liz Earle face products for me tend to be quite dry and sticky. The exception being the Foot Repair Cream which is marvellous. Since I have finished this tube of Hand Repair I use the Foot Repair on my hands. I do love the smell of this hand cream however, a delicate orange flower is one of my favourite scents.

So that was my mini exit review for a few products I have recently finished. Do you have any products that you'd give an exit review, or recommendations?

Clearstep Braces - Thoughts and Experience

2010-12-20T17:00:00.001Z

If you're unhappy with your teeth and have been thinking about visiting your Orthodontist, here are my thoughts on the Clearstep plastic brace system. I have been using this system for about 4 months and I have about 3 months left to go. I will then wear a retainer at night forever to keep them in position.

If you've had Clearstep or Invisalign then let me know your thoughts too. Don't mind the camera in this video, the tripod was gently sliding off to the left!

The nails wraps I am wearing in this video are from Rebel Nails, and I am currently on day 10 of wear. I might change them soon but they show no signs of coming off by themselves!

Winner of the Coastal Scents Brush Set is...

2010-12-17T16:36:00.003Z

"Gracefulswirl", you're the winner, please contact me with your address so I can send you your prize. It will be posted after Christmas now as I fear it will get lost in the snow otherwise!

If I don't hear from Gracefulswirl over the next couple of days I will pick another winner from the comments from the original post.

Wintry Lips - Just say No to chapped lips!

2010-12-14T17:00:00.001Z

I'm sitting here in my pyjamas and I reach over to my bedside cabinet for a lip balm. I realise that this lip balm is always there as I actively keep it there. Rather than my absent minded product strewn desk in the study. It is my favourite and most intensive over night treatment.

Nip + Fab is a brand that has received a lot of attention both good and bad because it is a cheaper and "cut down" version of it's sister-more-expensive brand called Rodial. I personally wouldn't justify purchase of a Rodial product unless I couldn't find a more cost effective version. I don't think my practical outlook on cosmetics or wallet for that matter are the target audience for Rodial.

That being said, I was keen to try Nip+Fab products. I have tried the Tummy Fix, Lip+Nip Fix and Under Eye Concealer. The concealer is brilliant however far too light for my skin tone and too pink. However I have given my tube to a friend who thinks it's great. Better than her touche éclat that she buys in duty free every year! The tummy fix whether psychosomatic or real seems to work for me. But you have to be religious about using it morning and night or it all goes to pot. I noticed a firmer tummy but have since slacked a bit about using it now that I am getting to the end of the tube. I am saving it for special occasions when a super flat tummy is needed, think little black dress or bikini.

Back to the Lip+Nip Fix. It is an odourless**, pale brown, viscous, lanolin substance which is is incredibly difficult to squeeze out of the 15ml tube. However a little goes a long long way! It melts with body heat in to a non sticky or greasy feeling balm. It has many uses rather than the obvious lip and nipple balm. I use it on knees and elbows, scratches and grazes, emergency eye shine and eye brow tamer and cuticle cream. You can also use it whipped up as an emergency make up remover. This is one handy little thing to have.

As I don't use Vaseline (for cruelty free reasons) this is a brilliant alternative. For Lanolin allergy sufferers, this is sadly not for you.

At £7.95 it is an expensive lip balm, but a cheap multi-purpose balm. Consider the readily available alternatives such as Elizabeth Arden which the smell is so overpowering that I can't bear it anywhere near my nose and mouth and it's suddenly not all that expensive.

You can buy Nip+Fab products from their website or see their website for retail stockists.

This is my second tube of Nip+Fab Lip + Nip Fix, the first was provided for PR purposes.

** Today I noticed it smells a bit "sheepy". I suppose that's the Lanolin. It's not overly unpleasant but noticeable.

Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Lust

2010-12-07T17:00:00.002Z

Hankering for more purple liners I bought Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Lust the other week. I have been impressed with the staying power of these liners owning a few that came in UD sets, but I haven't had any of the coloured ones. Just brown and black ones.

Having used this a few times now, I think I can comment on it. They are smudgy and soft but have great staying power.

White skin

My skin

Lust is a deep indigo colour with significant silver shimmer. You can buy these liners for £11.50 from various retails stores on the UK.

Ask Jasmine - Mascara Alternatives.

2010-12-06T17:00:00.001Z

Q: LOVE your videos! I am (almost) 33 years old and embarrassingly JUST NOW learning how to use makeup correctly (foundation? concealer? :-D ). Your videos have helped immensely.

I occasionally am afflicted with mild angular blepharitis outbreaks (red, irritation at the outer corner of my eyes) and find that removing mascara is evil as it tends get stuck right at the corners and under my eyes when I use make-up removers, aggravating the condition.

Do you know of any alternatives to conventional mascara that is super easy to remove?

A: Have your eye lashes dyed as even if your eye lashes are already dark it will lengthen them as it dyes the very tip of the lashes which are transparent.

Curl you lashes using a mechanical curler and then use the clear mascara to hold the curl. However this won't create volume, but you can achieve this with lash infills(extensions which are place between your lashes) but they are expensive to maintain.

Using a thin eye liner creates volume as well. Use this video from my channel for tips.

Also consider using strip lashes as an altenative as they are easy to remove (with a warm damp face cloth then gently pull the lashes away).

Christmas Giveaway #7 - Brush Set by Coastal Scents

2010-12-03T16:43:00.002Z

Please follow and leave a comment below. I'd like to know your top tips with brushes, which brushes do you like best and why?

e.l.f Bamboo Complexion Brush vs ecoTOOLS Powder Brush

2010-12-02T09:00:00.003Z

This is such an obvious post, but I thought I'd head it off at the pass. e.l.f have launched their eagerly awaited sustainably sourced Bamboo Brushes. It's natural to compare them to their main competitor and probably inspiration, ecoTOOLS. ecoTOOLS started life just like e.l.f in the US. It is sold mainly through large chemists and supermarkets such as Walmart. They have finally made their way over to Europe and can now be found mainly in Boots and Tesco.

As a side point, please let me apologise for the state of my e.l.f powder brush, I use it every day so in these photos it isn't clean! But it is normally a soft creamy white colour and when washed, returns to that colour.

The main difference is the price, as expected the e.l.f brush is slightly cheaper at £5.50 and the ecoTools brush is £8.99. The e.l.f Bamboo brush range has a static price of £5.50 a brush whereas the ecoTOOLS are priced differently depending on the brush, so some of the smaller brushes like the angled eyeliner ecoTOOLS brush may be cheaper by about 50p.

Both brands are also available in sets which offer significant value for money if you are interested in more than four brushes. The 5 piece ecoTOOLS is around £14.99 and the e.l.f set is £20.

I will say that having tried both sets, they are identical types of brushes however there is a difference in the e.l.f eye brush as it is basically a C brush which is dense and fluffy, whereas the ecoTOOLS is flat and so not as versatile. That's the main difference I can see.

The density of the brush head is very similar, it is very hard to feel the difference.

The e.l.f brush is softer though.

The ecoTools brush head is slimmer and more tapered. The e.l.f Complexion brush head is fluffier and bigger.

The e.l.f brush is slightly longer and the brush head is bigger. They both weigh about the same.

It is refreshing to see that both are good quality brushes that have considered environmental impacts of their manufacture. Do you consider ecological sustainability when choosing whether a brush is good value?

My favourite Cruelty Free Brands

2010-12-01T09:00:00.002Z

Being cruelty free is getting a lot of attention at the moment thanks to Pixiwoo's interest in animal testing of cosmetics. I am really happy about their decision to investigate this area and have offered advice on how to go cruelty free in the future.

A few years ago it was very difficult to lead a cruelty free lifestyle, it is very difficult to find and get information from companies about their manufacture and ethical concerns. This has left the way clear for lots of new and exciting ethically and environmentally conscious companies to break in to this area and lead the way. Slowly other companies are seeing the potential of the green conscious currency and are putting in the effort to become cruelty free. I am delighted to see mainstream brands like Superdrug, Argos, Marks and Spencer and The Co-operative taking the lead in this area.

I decided to write down some of my favourite brands and items from their ranges I like and why. Obviously not all cruelty free cosmetics perform fantastically, as with all make up - what suits one person won't suit another. I hope you consider these brands above others, simply because they share the same beliefs that beauty doesn't have to cost the earth, cause pain and suffering to animals or exploit developing countries.

Make Up

e.l.f - Star products for me are Eye Liner Pens, Eye Brow Lifter and Filler, Mineral Booster (tinted).

Beauty Without Cruelty - My favourite products are their lipsticks - so creamy and incredibly pigmented.

Lily Lolo - although I am in between shades, the mineral foundations are lovely. Even more so are their blushes, which are pigmented, soft and matte. At 75p a sample you can afford to experiment until you find your perfect products.

Urban Decay - Although a lot of this brand is about shimmer and rock, you can't fault their soft and pigmented eye shadows, creamy lipsticks and I am a fan of the cream to powder foundations. As for the 24/7 Liners, well they are the best I've tried. Smudgy and pigmented. This is rather an expensive brand for fun items like eye shadows, but the boxed sets are good value. The Naked Palette is my latest purchase.

Skin Care

Karin Herzog. These have really helped my rashy, red and sensitive skin become more bearable and dare I say it normal! Again on the more expensive side, but the Glyco Rose Serum is one of my hero products.

Liz Earle - I feel that this is an expensive and yet fairly ordinary brand. I also think that the skin care range is quite strong for sensitive, easily annoyed skin. I don't tend to buy this very often but the footcare range and also the new shampoo are rather good. Since there is only one type of shampoo for the moment, it is good for all the family. My sister does quite like the Cleanse and Polish.

Alva - This unassuming brand has quite bowled me over, simple packaging, no overly irritating perfumes or colourants. Effective and gentle products which have calmed and soothed my skin without making a big deal of it!

Lush - I use the Lush spray toner to remove cleansing oils, such as Dermalogica Precleanse, and to freshen up on hot days. It's cheap and cheerful, reliable and effective.

Hair Care

Naked Hair Care - Available in Boots and online. I quite like the conditioning treatments.

Original Source - Easily available in High Street stores and supermarkets. Items are cost effective and there is plenty of choice of fragrances and hair types.

Body

Naked Body Care - My favourite from the range is the Cocoa de la Mer bath foam, it has an unusual but feminine scent which I reach for most bathtimes!

Original Source - Again a large choice of fruity fresh products for shower and bath. Passionfruit is one of my favourite scents.

LUSH - who doesn't love a bath ballistic?

Faith in Nature products can be found in Waitrose and Oxfam stores, I like to buy in Oxfam because then I am getting something I want and the profits go to a charitable organisation. Charity and cosmetics, two of my favourite pastimes!

Nails

O.P.I - My favourite from the ever growing range is Going on Green.

e.l.f - again a growing range of colours. The formulas vary depending on which shade you go for, the latest matte shades are creamy whereas the shimmery shades tend to be sheer needing more than two coats.

BWC - just relaunched with exciting and contemporary shades, beautifully glossy and hard wearing.

Rebel Nails - I first sought these out as an alternative to nail polish as my nails were very weak and needed a rest from polish and remover. These are easy to use and you can achieve fabulous designs and finishes without being a nail artist!

Home

Marks and Spencers, The Co-Operative Faith in Nature (found in Oxfam stores nationwide)
These brands are cruelty free so you can get your washing up liquid, dishwashing detergent, baby products and all household products here.

Clothes - I haven't explored this totally yet, I do try to buy ethically on the High Street but I am very happy to recommend Rapa Nui. They kindly sent me a Bamboo T-shirt and some socks. I liked them so much I went back and bought two more tops and a top for my hubby too! These are the softest and lightest T-shirts and so comfortable! I will be back for the rest of the range as soon as I can!

I would be delighted to hear about your favourite ethical and cruelty free brands, I am all ears/eyes! Specially with Christmas coming up and I like to buy ethically for friends and family wherever I can.

Tool Turnabout Brush Storage Carousel, wheeee!

2010-11-30T11:12:00.003Z

Since this kitchen utensil gadget came in to my life, the chaos on my desk has considerably reduced. The Pampered Chef Tool Turnabout, although not an essential brush storage product, really is great. It has 15 compartments in three tiers on a rotating carousel which makes sorting, storing and reaching your brushes really easy. I have all my brushes organised by type and sometimes brand. The Tool turnabout was originally designed for the kitchen worktop but it holds pride of place on my desk holding all of my brushes, yes all! Just for information, I keep dirty brushes in a separate glass vase.

If you'd like to win yourself an early Christmas present, simply enter the giveaway here. Don't leave comments here or on the post as they will not count! Hurry as there's only a day or two left to enter!

If you're not lucky enough to win one from R8Beauty then the Tool Turnabout priced at £18 is available from the Pampered Chef website through your local agent.

A bit of nail fun, purple snow!

2010-11-29T17:18:00.002Z

O.P.I Purple with a Purpose + e.l.f nail polish in White. A touch of silver glitter dusted daintily over the top completes the Christmas look!

It's all a bit Cadbury's and doesn't help me kick the chocolate habit during the day!

Blog Giveaway #6

2010-11-26T11:49:00.004Z

The winner of the Glitter Gal Smoky Eyes kit is Hilda, you can read her blog here.

I am a huge fan of the Eyeko Fat Balms, my favourite is the Cherry colour. It is perfect for my skin tone and I use it daily as a blush and lip tint for autumnal looks. On the cheeks it's lovely for dry skin and in this cold weather for soothing and protecting lips.

So I have two more Eyeko products to giveaway on my blog!

All you have to do to enter is follow and leave a comment below, answering this question. What is your favourite lip product and why?

Blog Giveaway #5 Christmas

2010-11-24T16:29:00.003Z

Firstly, the winner of the Myreen Young Rich Night Cream is Ally E. Ally, could you please contact me via email with your name and address for your prize.

On to my next giveaway!

Every girl needs a smoky eye look to rely upon for the festive party season. This is a lovely little kit from Glitter Gal is perfect. I was really loathe to give it away I liked it so much. I haven't used it obviously but I have been tempted! I am also a big fan of their holographic nail polish which is beautiful (especially the black!)

If you'd like to win this smoky eye kit, then all you have to do is subscribe to my Youtube, follow my blog and leave me a lovely comment below.

I'd like to know your top secret eye shadow tips for getting the perfect smoky eye!

Blog Giveaway #4 Myreen Young Rich Night Cream + Winner of Magic Lips

2010-11-21T13:01:00.003Z

The lovely Sarah at Blusher Obsession guessed my guilty secret! I own 114 lipsticks! Sssshhhhh, don't tell anyone!

Enter below my next Christmas giveaway for a full sized brand new Myreen Young Rich Night Cream (RRP £23). I have been using the cleanser and I think it's a lovely organic skin care range.

All you have to do is follow my blog and leave a comment with a skin care wonder tip for everyone else! What is your favourite skin care treatment and why?

Ask Jasmine - Puffy Eyes

2010-11-16T17:00:00.001Z

Q: Jasmine, I'm also an avid fan of your vids and blog. I hope that you can help me concerning my eyes. I always wake up with puffy eyes. Even after cooling them they need ages to go down. I hardly feel the drive to do my eyes (I prefer nude eye make up at the moment) but I have to. Otherwise I look like a zombie on ecstasy. ;-) Anyways, is there an opportunity to do a natural eye make up to veil or cover my puffy and baggy eyes? Thanks for your help, dear!

A: Cooling with a eye patch is always a really good idea first thing in the morning as it brings the worst of it down. Aloe vera gel applied to the area as well will help. If you're in a rush in the morning so don't have the time (who does!?) then you need to take a look at your moisturiser. Sometimes we use eye creams and moisturisers which are too rich for our skin. They sit on the surface all night long and make the skin puffy. Avoid using a rich cream around the eyes at night or use a gel. If you are going to use an eye cream, it is best applied about two hours before you go to sleep, otherwise skip it and put some on in the morning.

A good brightening concealer will really lift the area, concentrate is at the edges of the bag, where is meets your "normal" skin. Avoid shimmery eye shadow whilst your eyes are puffy as that draws attention to it.

If you have a question or a suggestion for the person who asked this question, please leave a comment below!

Magic Lips Giveaway and ecoTOOLS winner

2010-11-16T12:21:00.006Z

The lovely Jenny has won the ecoTOOLS brushes, you can watch her YouTube channel here too.

All you have to do to enter this giveaway is guess how many lipsticks I own, the one who is the closest wins this lovely Magic Lips Case and three Magic Lips lipsticks!

Don't forget to follow my blog (there is a link at the top of the page) and subscribe to my Youtube channel for more articles and contests!

BWC Winner and a new Christmas Giveaway - ecoTOOLS brush set

2010-11-15T18:09:00.006Z

I'd like to congratulate "Augustine" the winner of the BWC Accessory kit from last week's giveaway, Augustine, please email me your details to claim your prize!

The next giveaway is something very lovely and perfect for Christmas. I believe that 2011 is going to be the year of the Bamboo brush! e.l.f are launching theirs in Europe next year so I will be doing a comparison when the time comes with these lovely ecoTOOLS brushes.

The ecoTOOLS brush handles are made from sustainable bamboo with a recycled aluminium ferrule and synthetic taklon hairs. Three big thumbs up from me for sustainability. ecoTOOLS also won the Annual PETA award for Best Cruelty Free Make-up Brushes. The kit contains 5 brushes; blush, eye shading, eyeliner, lash/brow groomer and concealer.

This kit was sent to me for review purposes but RRP is £14.99 from lots of nationwide stockists (such as Superdrug, Tesco and Boots).

Watch the video and leave a comment below if you'd like to enter this giveaway to win the set featured. Comments on the video have been disabled.

Digital Art for Christmas

2010-11-14T09:00:00.002Z

I am utterly thrilled with my new digital artwork, designed by www.latinainglesaportraits.com

Joanna is a fellow YouTube and Twitter friend, and also based in Oxfordshire. I absolutely love this portrait. Joanna took this photo of me from my Twilight tutorial:

To create this digital portrait

For anyone who has tried any digital artistry or even attempted to resize a photo in Photoshop, you'll appreciate how much work and skill goes in to creating artwork of this quality.

Joanna has created a video of the simplified steps to creating this artwork and you can see it below.

If you'd like to give a creative gift this Christmas contact Jo at her website and use my exclusive discount code FRIENDS50 to get a 50% discount until the end of November 2010 (I do not receive any part of the sales generated and neither would I accept them!).

I have commissioned Joanna to create a family portrait for me as I think her work is so beautiful. I plan to give these as gifts all through the year. I will receive the complete digital artwork for me to print as many times as and to whatever sizes I like. You're not just paying for a one off piece of art. If you can't decide on a photograph, then why not buy a gift voucher so that your recipient can decide which pictures to digitize for themselves.

Thank you so much for creating this artwork for me Joanna, you can see it proudly displayed on all of my Social Media channels!

See the gallery of Joanna's work here on her website.

Blog Competition - Christmas Gift Giveaway

2010-11-11T17:00:00.005Z

I'm starting a new feature on my blog about Christmas present ideas, there's no point waiting until December 1st as most people are already thinking about what to buy! I've done my Christmas shopping so I hope this helps you!

I am also giving you the chance to win the items I present! So watch the video, if you'd like to win, just leave a comment on my blog (video comments have been disabled) and I'll pick a weekly winner!

Winner will be announced on Monday 15 November when another exciting giveaway will be posted, what will it be... I have several more to show you!

*I was sent this by BWC for review and with their permission I decided to give it away!

Ask Jasmine - Face and Neck Foundation Matching

2010-11-11T10:20:00.003Z

Q: My problem is - as much as I might like the foundation on my face, altogether it still makes my face look pinkier than my neck, if that makes any sense. Is there something that can be done other than swapping foundation or applying it all over my neck? This is probably a dumb question, since it looks like using another foundation would be the sensible thing to do, but I have tried so many others and I never liked the way they looked, full of streaks from my fingertips and/or not even at all. And of course, being constantly on a budget I'm not able to pay for high end make up - and I don't even think that would be a safe solution.

A: It is difficult to give advice about foundations when I really need to see you and your skin to make an assessment of a suitable foundation for face and neck.

It's a common problem in tanned women to have a mismatch between face and neck. Whether your face is darker or lighter than your neck. I use a mineral foundation on the neck area which is the same as my face as it is quick to apply, doesn't use too much product and is less likely to come off on clothes as liquid/creams.

I would find an inexpensive mineral foundation and buff that over face after foundation and on the neck to even out the tones. Minerals are pure pigment that can be built up to the layers you like and still feel light enough. It should cover your foundation and bring your neck in to harmony with your face. There are many reputable brands, the ones I have most experience with are Urban Decay, e.l.f and Barefaced Beauty as they have the best colours for tanned skin.

Ask Jasmine - Eye Bags n Wrinkles!

2010-11-10T18:35:00.000Z

Q: Can you please tell how to get smooth eyes like yours? You have no wrinkles or bags. I have bags and wrinkles and I really want smooth eyes just like yours. Do you use any products?

A: Prevention is easier, cheaper and more effective than curing them so I'll start with a few common sense products I have used for about 10 years:

1. A good eye cream at night, I have used many and I currently use Alva eye cream.

2. A moisturiser or foundation with a Sun Protection Factor of 30.

3. Do not smoke! Top cause of premature ageing is smoking. Quit as soon as you can.

4. Hydrate yourself from the inside. Water is the best beauty product there is, set yourself a target to drink a litre a day, that's only five glasses. One with each meal and then one between, that doesn't sound so hard?

As for bags, there is no miracle way to get rid of those either (other than surgery which is an expensive and last resort). Things which help a little are gels (such as aloe vera gel). They have a tightening effect, but use a little or it can feel uncomfortable. The effects are of course temporary and you will need to use it several times a day to keep up the effect. Natural oils from your skin will negate the the effect.

The use of brightening concealers help flatten the bags and lift the wrinkles; concentrate it in your wrinkles and at the edges of the bag to give an optical lifting effect to the bag edges blending it in with the rest of the face). Nip + Fab have an excellent eye brightening products which works very well (use sparingly and work quickly). I use the e.l.f undereye concealer and highlighter in medium blended in with fingers or a fluffy brush and set with powder.

Fillers are also an answer whether surgical injections or surface fillers which contain silicone which you can go over with your concealer or foundation. I have seen cosmetic fillers by several companies, but haven't used them myself. Soap and Glory is the most recent I have seen. Use them around the outer corners of the eyes and lips/nose for best effect.

If you have any Questions for me or indeed product recommendations which can help please leave a comment below!

Experimental Candle Making!

2010-11-09T13:00:00.001Z

Being a huge fan of good quality candles, I thought I'd try and make a candle myself!

1. Start with a double heater, which is bascically some tin foil in a saucepan. Make sure to leave enough to make a spout to pour the wax.

2. Whilst your wax is melting on a very low heat, gather together the candle holder and wick.

3. Thread the wick in to the disc holder and tie a knot in the bottom. Keep the wick about 5 cm longer than you need.

4. Glue the wick holder disc in to the bottom of the holder. This stops the wick moving as the wax melts. Once it is set, tie the wick to the pin (or a clothes peg) and balance that on the holder to keep the wick straight whilst it cools.

5. Add essential oils to your melted wax. I am using Geranium and Lavender. For a small candle like mine (which is about three tea lights) I have used about 4 teaspoons of oil mixture. Yes that's a lot of essential oils but otherwise the scent doesn't carry at all.

6. Pour the wax in to the votive holder, keeping a little in the pot for later. Always be careful when pouring the hot wax! Once the candle has set you'll see that there is a dip where the wick sits. So pour the wax that you kept back to fill in this dip.

The candle smelled very nice when burned, it's a clean and relaxing scent. Even Mr OJ noticed and remarked on it. To be honest it's a bit of a faff making your own candles but if you have the time, equipment and want a special scent that you just can't get anywhere else... why not? It's also a great way to use candles that may not have completely burned. I have a Christmas candle that I have remelted and put in a new holder as I had half of it left.

I'm may experiment with different waxes (I prefer soya to paraffin because it does not leave soot everywhere) and different essential oils. I am not sure Jonathan Ward has anything really to worry about, his candles are superb!

Ask Jasmine - Flaky, weak nails.

2010-11-08T10:13:00.002Z

Q: Hey Jasmine, Not sure if you'll know the answer but you might :D I've been having problems with my nails, but just on one hand, they are splitting, but it's like a layer peeling off, and every time it's nearly grown out it happens again :( any solutions??

A: If you haven't already switch to an acetone-free nail polish remover (I use Superdrug). Buffing your nails once a week (again the Superdrug 2-step ridge smoother and shiner is brilliant) and using a rich cuticle cream every day before bed (such as LUSH lemony flutter or Mavala) really helped me.

The other thing is that you have to give your nails a break from nail polish for at least a month. Not even clear nail varnish, they should get better after this. Also check your vitamin and mineral intake. A supplement is really useful. Invest in a glass nail file, I saw a few in Boots the other day. These are much kinder to your nails, keeping them strong and not letting water get in between and weaken the nail layers.

If you're missing your nail polish, try Rebel Nails stickers for special occasions, I found this brand whilst I was searching for something whilst I was on a nail polish break! I also saw some on ASOS and in Superdrug also but reviews have said they aren't as good as Rebels. Avoid stick on nails as the glue is too strong and will pull any weak nails apart.

Breast Cancer Awareness Sale Update, thank you.

2010-11-06T18:05:00.004Z

Just a quick note to say thank you to everyone who bought something from my Breast Cancer charity sale of pink items, the total raised was £32.00! The receipt is below.

Ask Jasmine - Oily eye lids.

2010-11-05T17:00:00.000Z

Q Hi Jasmine
Thanks for all the informative and helpful videos!
Please could you advise me, im from South Africa and we dont have much high end brands besides MAC. I really need an eyeshadow primer and the paint pots dont work for me :-( i have really oily eyelids. I tried importing but Urban decay, Too Faced, benefit, elf & Mary Kay do not ship to this country. We have here what you guys call drugstore brands,please could you suggest something.
Thanks

A:
Hi, if you can't get a specific eye lid primer then try using your eye shadows wet. Make a light paste using water and your favourite shadow (loose shadows work best). Apply to your lid in a wash of colour, and then use a dry shadow over the top to set and blend it. That works an absolute treat for me if I haven't got a primer handy.

Apply foundation lightly to the eyelid and powder with transluent powder to set. That should act as a primer also. Never use a moisturiser on eye lids either that just adds more oil that they don't need.

Any tips you may have that can help, please leave a comment of question below.

TV show - e.l.f Christmas swatches

2010-11-05T13:00:00.002Z

If you missed the UStream today about the e.l.f Christmas ranges, you can watch it again here!

Thanks again everyone who made it and contributed!

e.l.f Christmas Range - Internet TV show this week

2010-11-03T15:01:00.004Z

Now that e.l.f UK has had a pretty decent restock this week, everyone will be itching to order their Christmas goodies as well as their staples. I have some stunning Christmas presents from the new range that went live last week to show you.

It always helps to see them being used and to be able to ask questions about them before you order. So why not drop in and see me on Friday this week (5 November 2010) at 11am UK time. You can find my channel here. I shall do my best to record it (technological prowess depending) so it can be repeated for those who are unable to see it live on Friday!

Click on the image to go straight to the Christmas shop, browse and if you have any questions, bring them on Friday!