Tag Archives: beaute

The end of nail-painting as we know it?

Posted in Beauty, beauty news, nails by

nailsinc_paintcanCould a spray change it all?

Nails Inc is stunning us all and bringing out a spray nail polish, the Nails Inc Paint Can. And it’s understandably causing a stir.

Will it soon be time to retire our nail polish brushes? Is this the future of manicures? Bear with me, I don’t have the answer quite yet…

Spray on nails will be quick, but uncontrolled. How hard it actually is to remove the excesses, how much mess it makes in the surroundings and the finish are the key to the success of this polish.

nailsinc_spraycanApplication is simple: spray and done. Obviously there will be some mess, but according to the instructions, after applying a base coat to the nails (a must), you just spray it on and wait until it is all dry and to remove the excesses you just wash your hands with soapy water or use wet wipes. Eh?

The nail polish sticks to the base coat, or old nail polish you have on, for a quick refresh. If that really happens seamlessly, this will be amazing.

Other questions I have would be around uniformity of coat, pigmentation, need for multiple coats and durability – although they do recommend also using a topcoat.

Really, it is not often that something this revolutionary hits the nail market and I am dead excited. Plus, it would be an amazing helping hand to all of the time-strapped ladies beautifying on the go.

On top of that, it could make a great quick drying base for nail art.

Being a Nails Inc product, you can pretty much guarantee great quality.

There are two pretty colours, a silver shade called Shoreditch Lane and a metallic pink hue, Hoxton Market, both brand new.

I cannot wait to get my claws on it. It’s available from November 12th, but you can pre-order it now from the Nails Inc site. It costs a reasonable £10.

While I don’t get my mittens on it, you can see all my Nails Inc posts on the blog.

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A little deodorant that packs a punch: Sure Compressed

Posted in Beauty by

sure_compressed_motionsense - 1Deodorant is something we use everyday, sometime, more than once a day so I for me, the choice is well thought of.

Sure is a brand I’ve been familiar for a while, but had never tried. The launch of their compressed range got me trying. And I liked what I saw.

I tried fragrances Cotton Dry and Shower Fresh and found them very pleasant, not overpowering or intrusive and super fresh.

The deodorant feels gentle on the skin, it is quite dry on application and doesn’t stain dark clothes too much – but you still need to be careful, there is some transfer.

sure_compressed_motionsense - 3It does “cloud” the room quite a lot, but about the same as most deodorants.

The exclusive MotionSense technology means this deodorant works harder when you are – exercising, rushing or hit and sweating more. perfect for sporty types or just busy bees.

The more you move, the more it protects because it contain microcapsules that sit on the surface of the skin. As we move, the friction in our underarms burst these capsules, releasing protection and fragrance throughout the day.

sure_compressed_motionsense - 2The compressed format means you get the same amount in a more compact bottle that you did in the bigger one, they just use less gas.

Might not seem much, but it saves on material when manufacturing the packaging and also means there is less of it to dispose of. Neat!

I went to their fun launch with the lovely Kimberly Wyatt – always so adorable and got to know a lot about the product, technology and the brand, so was very happy to try it.

Sure Compressed with MotionSense can be purchased in retailers nationwide for £2 RRP for 75ml.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Discovering Dr Jackson’s natural products

Posted in Beauty, Skincare by

dr_jacksons_face_oil_review - 1How many times have I started an article with “I love oils”? Probably more than you’d be comfortable with, but the truth is, oils really changed my skin.

Being the lucky girl I am, I was invited to iconic London store Liberty to hear from Dr Jackson, or Simon, as he prefers to be called, for a showcase of his fabulous products.

And yes, I brought home the Dr Jackson’s 03 Face Oil.

This wonder oil is luscious and thick, but spreads divinely and is extremely well absorbed by the skin. The smell is rather herbal but not too overpowering.

dr_jacksons_face_oil_review - 3Skin immediately feels soft and nourished, and when I wake up in the morning it looks supple and radiant, with a fabulous texture.

As part of my skincare routine it helped minimise breakouts at that time of the month, which are a certain for me. Well, much less this time.

The oil is 100 % natural and contains the goodness of a unique blend of oleic and linoleic acids, baobab (see the little seed on my pics?) and marula oils, calendula and arnica.

The blend of ingredients has anti-inflamatory properties and works on improving skin tone and elasticity, minimising scarring, deeply moisturising, reducing redness and healing – read damaged tissue repair. The result is a visibly smoother, re-texurised complexion.

I left the event inspired. By beauty, of course, by nature, by science and human nature. Simon is fascinating, and his work, not only the science bit (which is mesmerising, by the way), is just wonderful.

dr_jacksons_face_oil_review - 1 (1)Dr Jackson is a pharmacognosist, so he is and expert on the active chemical components of medicinal plants. 

He fell in love with regional indigenous plants’ medicinal properties and traditional medicine early in life and went on to study them.

His travels got him exposed to different cultures and uses of plants as healing agents, and introduced new plants to his life. Amongst his studies, he came across beautifying properties in certain plants, and ran with it, creating a fantastic natural skincare range which was four years in the making.

He will only use carefully selected ingredients of the best quality that can be found int he world, extracted the closest way they would at source, pure and at the right concentration to be efficient, while also supporting the communities which grow them.

Now, wouldn’t you trust your skin to this man? Well, you should.

They now have a whole concession at Liberty London and there are also treatments available.

The fantastic Dr Jackson’s 03 Face Oil costs £55 for 50ml and £30 for 25ml and is available at Liberty London, and online.

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A gentle face wash: the S5 Clarity Cleanser

Posted in Beauty, Skincare by

s5_clarity_cleanser_review - 2Many a times I mentioned how much I love S5 Skincare. Apart from having fabulous, natural products, the founder is a darling and genuinely caring about skin issues.

To join my beloved Balance Fluid moisturiser and Purity Serum, I got the great – and new –  S5 Clarity Cleanser, which cleans and detoxifies skin.

It is so mild on the skin that it’s not even funny. It’s scent is very subtle and it foams quite well.

s5_clarity_cleanser_review - 1Skin feels soft and extremely comfortable, not the faintest sign of drying. A real joy to use. It also does a very decent job of removing light makeup – even eye makeup!

On its formula, exfoliating papaya enzymes gently help get rid of old cells – leave it for a couple of minutes after applying to best results – and alpine epilobium fleishieri, which has sebum regulating properties.

The organic S5 Clarity Cleanser cost £28 for 200ml is available to buy now from the S5 Skincare website and selected retailers.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Nails: nude and rose gold

Posted in Beauty, nails by

nude and rose gold nails - somanylovelythingsHow long has it been since I posted nails on the blog, you ask? Let’s not talk about that. Let’s just say it is so long I am no longer entitled to call these type of posts nails of the week.

In fact, I’ll touch on it. Known for my ever colourful nails, I took what can be considered a sudden turn for the worst for a nail blogger: I fell in love again with plain reds and nudes.

Yes, there you have it. And is not limited to nude and red. Any simple, plain, block colour I will be all over.

nude and rose gold nails - somanylovelythingsSo I bring you my latest in a string of nudes; the pretty essence I ❤ Trends “The Nudes”  pure soul (o5).

This is a fabulous very light peach beige has very subtle pink shimmer undertones that are way too pretty. It is however, quite sheer by nature, so I needed four coats to reach a deeper colour.

As most light nail varnishes, it stains a bit on the first coat, less on the second than pretty much nothing from the third.

nude and rose gold nails - somanylovelythingsIt dries pretty quickly (especially taking into consideration how many coats I used) and last well. You wouldn’t believe this nail polish is only £1.80. Yes, you heard it.

To finish the look off (and take the edge of the plainness), I added some cute essence nail stickers which cost only £1.30 (!!!).

These are met’ addict and it is basically a pack full (more than 65) of tiny and delicate rose gold outlines of classic shapes like hearts, rectangles, circles, chains, stars, triangles and others.

nude and rose gold nails - somanylovelythingsI put a double heart on my ring finger nail and a single one on my indicator.

So there you have it. Nails. breaking the dry spell. I hope to post more from time to time, but only if they have anything interesting.

And while I’m at it, I must confess I had never before tried essence products. Have to say I am rather impressed by the quality and the value for money.

Their range is superb, covering most corners of beauty and there will be popping up on the blog soon.

You can get essence in the UK at Wilko. This nail polish is part of their “The Trends” line and it is limited edition, once it’s gone, it’s truly gone.

And while you’re at at it, you can see all my nail art, paint jobs and designs here.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

A 10 in 1 hair product? Meet Got2b All Star Styling Treatment

Posted in Beauty by

got2b_allstar_review - 1You know I have  thing with Schwarzkopf, from hair spray to oils, they are my go-to styling products.

You also know I love a multi-tasking product and they don’t come more multi-tasking than the Schwarzkopf 10-in 1 All Star Styling treatment.

Yes, yes, you heard it right. Ten. In one. How? Well…

Its (magical?) formula sees to style and shape hair at the same time as treating it. It gives shine, smoothness, volume, combats frizz and humidity, protects against heat and adds thickness and volume. Phew!

It is meant to be used on damp hair and the smell is amazing! I apply to the tips after washing and it helps tame to create a smooth style and keep hair in place, even in the London weather. Hair feels lovely when using it.

got2b_allstar_review - 3The volumising, texturising and thickening effects are, for me, the best feature. This product is great to use before you have your hair styled in any way; it gives hair grip and “puffiness”, but tames the frizz at the same time, helping create sturdy styles.

Plus, I love the colours in the packaging!

It is perfect to have on the go, especially when travelling, so you don’t have to carry lots of heavy and voluminous bottles around.

On top of that all, there should be an 11th wonder: its price. At under £3, from major retailers nationwide, this is a no-brainer.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Clock change: make it empower hour!

Posted in Beauty, Body, Lifestyle by

dove_empower_hour - 5
Good morning lovely people, we just got an extra hour! Yay! Let’s not think about when it is taken from us – yet – and let’s fully enjoy it by using it for ourselves!

Dove has challenged me to have a moisturisation empower hour. They gave me a few tips and sent me some products to help me get the best of that “free” hour.

Here’s how I started my day and used that brand new 60 minutes, that was given while I slept and claimed when I got up, all for myself.

Before I got into the shower, I lit an aromatic candle in the bathroom and kept the lights off. Low lights send a relaxing message to the brain.

dove_empower_hour - 2I took 5 minutes to breath. Recently I was gifted a brilliant shower aromatherapy shower oil called Clear Mind and it helps with mindfulness, a practice really close to my heart.

I rub the rich, golden and fragrant oil in my hands and deep inhale three times, then I rub my tummy and chest with it, before stepping into the shower. It is great; it delivers a true moment of calmness.

Then I swept a dry brush up my arms and legs towards the heart for 5 minutes to stimulate lymphatic circulation. This helps the body get rid of toxins.

dove_empower_hour - 1For a good 10 minutes, I exfoliated my whole body with the gorgeous Dove Exfoliating Body Wash, which gives skin a gentle scrub, removing dead cells and moisturising at the same time.

The skin is left super soft and ready to better receive the next skin care steps. I always use a body oil after showering; and I cannot recommend the Dove DermaSpa Goodness³ Body Oil enough!

I then used a Dove moisturiser on damp skin (at the moment I am loving the richness of the DermaSpa Goodness³ Body Cream) and for another 7 minutes I rubbed my muscles; especially forearms, thighs, shoulders and upper back.

I also manage to squeeze a quick 2-minute massage with the Dove DermaSpa Uplifted+ Body Roll-On, which is a fabulous treat for the body.

Plus a cheeky 60 second hand fix to exfoliate and moisturise my hands, which are ever so often neglected.
dove_empower_hour - 1 (1)After that, I put a soft dressing gown and slippers on and applied a face mask for 10 minutes. I used Caudalie’s Detox mask to help unclog my skin. Following that I applied a second one for another 10 minutes, this time a hydrating face mask, also from Caudalie.

While I waited for the masks to work their wonders, I had my handy humidifier on, had a coffee (yeah, I can’t shake that habit) and caught up with my magazines.

I find the humidifier is great in the winter to help counteract the central heating, which is super drying to the skin. For me, it is extra helpful as I suffer from rhinitis. The fact this has a soothing light is a bonus!

After removing the face mask, I took 5 minutes to moisturise and massage my face. I used an oil (the extraordinary Dr Jacksons Face Oil) and a serum (Liz Earle Superskin Face Serum). I applied both with upwards movements to stimulate circulation.

dove_empower_hour - 8Finally, with my last 5 minutes, I gave myself a powerful, knot-crunching hand massage using the Dove DermaSpa Intensive hand Treatment, which is super moisturising and smells amazing.

I feel revitalised, ready to face the shorter days. Well, I mean, as ready as one can be. As the steps in the hour are very short, I will certainly be picking and choosing to incorporate them to my routine.

What about you? How are you using your extra hour today?

The Dove Exfoliating Body Wash costs around £2.55 for 250ml and £4.38 for 500ml and is available now from retailers nationwide.

You can read my full review on it.

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This post contains PR samples and was written in collaboration with Dove.

 

 

Look good, do good: Kiehl’s Tinie Tempah Ultra Facial Cream

Posted in Beauty, Skincare by

kiehls_ultra_facial_cream_review - 2Kiehl’s is a brand I’ve always regarded quite highly, but had never tried anything from, even though I many a times set myself to buy.

I was very happy that the first product I got to try was the limited edition Tinie Tempah Ultra Facial Cream. Hang on. Tinie Tempah?

Kiehl’s partnered up with Tinie, who designed the lid for their classic Ultra Facial Cream and MTV Staying Alive Foundation to raise money – and awareness – to the prevention of HIV and Aids spread. Tinie Tempah is the UK ambassador for the charity.

kiehls_ultra_facial_cream_review - 3The Ultra Facial Cream is a 24-hour moisturiser as it helps reduce moisture loss and draws moisture from the air to keep skin hydrated for longer.

The white cream is much lighter than it looks. It spreads and absorbs well and is great for use day or night.

It feels great on the skin, you don’t need an awful lot to cover face and neck as it spreads extremely well and behaves very well under makeup.

With no fragrance, it’s great for men and women. For me, it is a no-nonsense approach to skin care. Even the boyfriend liked it!

kiehls_ultra_facial_cream_review - 1It contains antarcticine (a glacial glycoprotein extract), which helps protect against dryness and combat free radicals; desert plant extract, rich in potassium for hydrating effects and squalane, a signature Kiehl’s ingredient which is a vegetal lipid very similar to our skin one.

Kiehl’s is no strange to HIV/Aids prevention work. They have been working hard since the 80’s and have raised more than £2.5 million to the cause in the past 10 years alone.

The MTV Staying Alive Foundation provides funding and training to youth-led HIV prevention projects around the world. Their work helps these projects and their young leaders to develop vital skills to build innovative, culturally relevant and sustainable organisations that lead the fight against HIV on the ground.

Kiehl’s UK is giving £2 from every pot to the foundation, so it can help them carry on with their fantastic job.

You can get the Kiehl’s limited edition Tinie Tempah Ultra Facial Cream from the Kiehl’s website and retailers nationwide. it costs £43.50 for 125ml.

Because I got mine as a press sample, I have made a small donation to the foundation directly, after all, I am using a pot that should give back to the charity. You can donate directly here.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

A new tinted moisturiser in my drawer: Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20

Posted in Beauty, Skincare by

dermalogica_sheer_tint_review - 1Remember when I said I didn’t like tinted moisturisers then it all changed? Yeah, it seems I’m on a roll, now with the Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20.

I’ve been using Dermalogica products for a while now and so far everything I tired is a hit. See for yourself how much I love my moisture boost and eye cream.

This one does not disappoint. It has a lovely texture and the colour medium is a good match for me.

dermalogica_sheer_tint_review - 3It has some shimmery particles, which are the light-diffusing iron oxides, but not too much; just enough for that lovely healthy glow.

It also contains hydrolyzed pearl amino acids, hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant walnut seed extracts. All these ingredients help improve
 the texture and appearance of fine dehydration lines in the skin.

The coverage is extremely sheer, so perfect for a non-makeup day. After all, is is an SPF 20 face moisturiser and feels very comfortable on the skin.

dermalogica_sheer_tint_review - 2I’ve been using it a lot to go to the gym, used everyday on holidays and sometimes is just a nice brightening base for makeup, to be honest.

The Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 is priced at £34.80 and can be our chased on line or at Dermalogica shops and concession nationwide.

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.

A step into mindfulness: Aromatherapy Associates for Liberty Clear Mind Bath & Shower Oil

Posted in Beauty by

aromatherapy_associates_for_liberty_clear_mind_oil_review - 1Mindfulness. Something that is so talked about nowadays but still not exercised enough by most of us.

Aromatherapy Associates and Liberty are here to give us a little helping hand with the gorgeous Clear Mind Bath & Shower Oil, which was born to help us “find peace in a frantic world”.

This fabulously thick and aromatic oil contains chamomile, frankincense, palmarosa and bergamot.

They went through 12 blends before perfecting this gem which aims to help free our thoughts, achieve stillness of mind, live the present moment, which are principles of mindfulness, as well as revitalising the mind and body.

aromatherapy_associates_for_liberty_clear_mind_oil_review - 1The smell is powerful, its texture silky. What I really like is that they teach you how to use it in the shower, which for me is perfect (my low blood pressure makes baths an unpleasant business).

Just drop a 50p size amount on you hand, rub and inhale twice or thrice, before rubbing it onto your torso and tummy.

It may sound weird, but just the first pat of the routine made me clear my mind completely and focus on the aromas. I felt revitalised, and happy. When showering, the aromas are still release, and sink deep into our tissue.

I really enjoy the whole ritual. It does make you step out and take time not to think about anything, and be present.

aromatherapy_associates_for_liberty_clear_mind_oil_review - 4Mindfulness is something really close to my heart, as an anxiety sufferer. I did struggle a lot to find it, and after a lot of hard work, it became easier. And this oils is a great nudge towards it; it gives you that daily dose, even if for a short period of time, of stillness. And this is great.

The oil comes in a handcrafted bottle; mine has my initials – nice touch, Liberty!

It sits in a beautiful box designed especially for the collaboration, using one of Liberty’s iconic floral prints, Genevieve, from AW03, which colours marry the ingredients quite well.

aromatherapy_associates_for_liberty_clear_mind_oil_review - 2Aromatherapy Associates has a personal connection to Liberty. Its founder, Geraldine Howard, bought her wedding in the store, which I thought I was quite a cute story to add to this collaboration.

At the launch, in one of Liberty’s amazing private rooms, all carved in beautiful wood, in line with the iconic store stunning interior, we were treated to a fantastic hand massage. I chose calming, and the soothing it brought me (added to a glass of bubbly) was quite overwhelming.

The Aromatherapy Associates for Liberty Clear Mind Bath & Shower Oil costs £48 for 55ml and has at least 20 uses, and it available exclusively at Liberty, in-store, I recommend a trip over any time, I just love the place, and online.

And if you want to read more about my obsession with oils, it’s all here!

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This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my experience with the product and reflects my honest opinion on them.