Review: Beauty UK 'Earth Child' Eye Shadow Palette

After having a quick play around with the contents of this month's Love Me Beauty box I said the Beauty UK Eye Shadow palette in 'Earth Child'* was my favourite out of all 5 products. Just look at how pigmented it is on my finger tips, the quality felt great. Well, I take it back. Yes the shadows are pigmented when you swipe your fingers across them but sadly it doesn't translate that way once you try to apply. The swatches on the back of my hand in the photos above were built up a good few times each which I don't mind but every shade apart from the third on the top row (my fave) started to crumble and go patchy. Tried all the colours out on my lids too, the two green shades barely showed up and the fall out was terrible. I think my best bet with this palette is to use some of the darker more pigmented shades along my lower lash line.

So disappointed, thought I'd found a great budget neutral palette but sadly not.

Have you tried this palette or any other products from Beauty UK?

What's your fave purse friendly neutral palette?

Beauty UK Earth Child Eye Shadow Palette, 3.99 from www.superdrug.com

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June 2014: Love Me Beauty Box

It's Love Me Beauty time again! :) This month I went for Menu 1*..

Montagne Jeunesse Brazilian Mud Fabric Masque, RRP: 1 (full size): I've tried a fabric mask from Montagne Jeunesse before and really liked it. Not sure if it was the Brazilian Mud Masque but I'm excited to try it. Montagne Jeunesse is a great brand, I'm a huge fan of the De-Clog Nose Pore Strips and the products are so affordable.

NYX Nail Polish 'Winter', RRP: 3 (full size): Was looking forward to trying a nail polish from NYX but this shade isn't my cuppa tea. Tried it out on a friend and was surprised by how fast it dried but unforunately I won't get any use from it.

Model Co Shine Ultra Lip Gloss 'Fairy Floss', RRP: 12 (full size): If you read my Disappointing Products post you'll know I picked up three Model Co products when they were magazine freebies and wasn't impressed with any of them. I found the lipgloss to be very stringy but know a lot of you owned different shades and didn't have that problem so fingers crossed this one will be much better.

Beauty UK Eye Shadow Palette 'Earth Child', RRP: 3.99 (full size): Beauty UK is a brand I've never tried anything from. Based on the prices I didn't think the products would be much cop but after having a quick swatch I have to say this palette is my favourite product in the box this month. All the shades are pigmented and wearable, the quality is great for the price. Obviously not as buttery as the likes of Urban Decay and the lighter shades are a bit chalky but overall it's a great wee palette.

Urban Veda Purifying Day Cream, RRP: 14.99 (10ml sample): If you know me, you know I love anything minty and guess what? This day cream smells like straight up spearmint! :) Not only does it feel lovely and light on the skin but it's cooling too. Never heard of this brand before but now I feel like I need to try more.

What do we all think of this months box? I have to say it's not my favourite but with Love Me Beauty you're able to see the contents in all three boxes each month and skip a month if nothing takes your fancy. I more than likely would have skipped this months box but I'm really happy I got to try the Beauty UK palette and Urban Veda Purifying Day Cream.

Which menu did you go for?

Love Me Beauty 10 quid plus P&P from lovemebeauty.com

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Yay & Nay: Simple Illuminating Radiance Cream & Perfecting Beauty Balm

When I think of Simple, I instantly think 'face wipes' In my early teens my cleansing routine was a Simple face wipe morning and night. The thought makes me shudder now but they served me well. I've always had sensitive skin but the wipes never caused me any irritation and I was lucky enough to escape the spotty teen phase, so, for me they worked perfectly well. Simple have expanded their range since then though and as we all know, when a beauty blogger goes food shopping at Tesco, a few beauty bits always end up in the trolley.

Let's get the nay out of the way first

Simple Perfecting Beauty Balm: The universal shade of this is extremely orange but fear not as it does blend out, to nothing. Seriously, there's no coverage whatsoever. After testing it out I was met with ''do you know you have glitter all over your face?'' I have no problem with bases containing shimmer but this was something else. Not only does it offer zero coverage but if your skin is even the slightest bit dry, avoid like the plague. So as you can guess, the finish is matte which teens with oily skin will appreciate BUT, the shimmer overload and lack of coverage is going to highlight any spots you might have. It's not all bad news though as it does contain SPF15 and evens skin tone to a certain extent but unless you have oily skin with no imperfections, I can't imagine you'll be pleased with the result.

Simple Illuminating Radiance Cream: This moisturiser is lightweight which again makes it a great product for oily skin or Summer when moisturisers tend to feel a bit too heavy and slip around under foundation. For me it isn't moisturising enough on it's own so what I do is apply a small amount on top of whatever moisturiser I'm using. It contains the same shimmer as the Beauty Balm but because I use it under foundation I don't end up with disco face. In my opinion it's way too shimmery to be used alone but makes a great illuminating primer. I also dab a small amount on my cheekbones after foundation, it creates a gorgeous subtle sheen that catches the light but never looks OTT. If my skin starts looking a bit tired and dull as the day goes on, I just pat on some more. It never feels heavy and hydrates any dehydration lines that can creep up on us around the eye/cheekbone area.

Have you tried either of these products?

Simple Illuminating Radiance Cream, 7.99 & Perfecting Beauty Balm, 8.99 both available from www.tesco.com

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Lately I've Been Lovin' #16

I haven't shared my favourites since April so lets get crackin'!

Lauren's Way Solution 60 Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse*: I'm sure you're all sick of hearing about this now but it really is that good, easily the best tan I've every used. I'm addicted to the stuff and even spoke about it in Pure Beauty magazine this month. 

Clarins Bronzing Duo '02 Medium': Since I've been getting a bit tan happy I don't feel the need to wear foundation every day but as we all know, tan fades from our faces first. So, to keep my body and face the same colour I've been swishing this beauty from Clarins all over my face with my Zoeva 106 Powder Brush. I love that it's a duo, the two shades allow me to go as bronzed or natural as needed.

Filorga Time-Filler Eyes*: Really enjoying this eye cream. I use it day and night yet it still looks almost full.

Vo5 Extra Body Styling Mousse: Such an affordable product and one I'll definitely repurchase. I use this in conjunction with Silky Sexy Hair Frizz Eliminator*, match made in heaven! The mousse holds my style in place all night even if I get caught in the rain and doesn't feel crispy when I use a lot of it which I do for nights out. The Frizz Eliminator makes my hair feel like silk and keeps it frizz free until the next wash.

L'Oreal Fibrology Thickening Shampoo & Masque: Bought these on a whim in Tesco while they were on offer. Really wasn't expecting much but they're not bad at all. I wouldn't say they make my hair feel thicker but it definitely looks fuller and any style I create lasts a lot longer before dropping flat.

Good Things Manuka Honey Refining Scrub*: This is such a brilliant scrub, feels like I'm slathering porridge all over my face :) It's creamy and moisturising but really gets rid of any dry skin.

Liz Earle Brow Pencil 'Dark': My Holy Grail brow product! Usually I use the shade 'light' and have gone through a few over the last two-ish years but this time I went to the dark side and it's fantastic. My problem with dark brow pencils is how red they look on me but the tone of this is spot on. 

Have you tried any of these products?

What have you been lovin' lately?

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I'm In This Month's Pure Beauty Magazine!

I'm so excited to be in the June 2014 issue of Pure Beauty Magazine. I'm on the blogger panel with Evelyn from We Were Raised By Wolves & Kate from Sugar Fixx Beauty who is sadly cut out of the photo above as a screen shot pro I am not, sorry.

If you aren't familiar with Pure Beauty magazine you can find out more about it here but in short it's the UK's leading magazine for high street and fragrance retailers. The magazine is read by management, beauty buyers and sales consultants every month and keeps them up to date with all the latest market trends. It also enables sales staff to confidently recommend products to customers.

I shared my product of the month which is of course a tanning product, surprise surprise eh. :) Lauren's Way Solution 60 Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse, it's a keeper! 

Are you subscribed to Pure Beauty Magazine?

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Review: Skinny Tan 24-Hour Bronzer

I'm a faux tan devotee at the mo. My bed sheets look like the Tango Man has been murdered in his sleep but I'm not willing to give it up just yet, I just look and feel better with a bit of colour and the latest addition to my cupboard of brown stuff comes from Skinny Tan.

Skinny Tan 24-Hour Bronzer* is an instant bronzing gloss which makes it the perfect product to have handy for those times when you decide to go out at the last minute as there's no developing time, it feels like a regular body butter and best of all, it smells yummy! They describe the scent as coconut which I adore but to me it smells like straight up chocolaty cocoa butter. It's goooood! 

Skinny Tan claims to contour your body and reduce the appearance of cellulite. I have to say I haven't noticed much difference between the 24-Hour Bronzer and any other tanning product I own, in my experience they all seem to make things look a bit better but it is moisturising thanks to the hydrating almond oil and doesn't make any dry patches more noticeable. My favourite way to use it is on top of  whatever tan I'm already wearing. Instead of using body lotion the day after applying tan I'll use this. It keeps my skin hydrated and makes my colour more intense. In the pot the colour looks way too dark but once applied to the skin you're left with a gorgeous, natural golden glow.

So far it sounds great but there are a couple of things I'm not so fond of. (1) The packaging. To me the colours and design seem a bit dated, more so the tub than the box it comes in. I know how a product looks shouldn't be important but to me it is, if I saw it on a shelf next to other tanning products I more than likely wouldn't give it a second look. Not a fan of the tub either, would much prefer a bottle with a pump. (2) Even though it's an instant tan which washes off, I still expected it to be a little bit water resistant but sadly it isn't.

Have you tried this or any other products from Skinny Tan?

Skinny Tan 24-Hour Bronzer, 200ml 16.99 from www.boots.com

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Pamper Your Paws With Organic Surge Gardeners Hand Scrub & Hand Cream

A good few years back I used and adored a hand scrub from Virgin Vie but as with most good things things, it was discontinued. Since then I'd just been using a regular body scrub on my hands in the shower and thought it was doing the job but when I got my mitts on the new Organic Surge Gardeners Hand Scrub* & Hand Cream* I noticed a huge difference from the very first use.

The natural olive seeds in the hand scrub help buff away ingrained dirt which is why it's perfect for gardeners and the blend of calming plant extracts and shea butter leave the skin baby soft. The scrub is dense but really creamy, just look at the 2nd photo! While scrubbing away it absorbs into my skin and once rinsed off the feel, look and tone of my hands completely changes. I'm not a gardener, I love flowers but my fear of bugs of any sort (even butterflies) puts a stop to any gardening notions I have but if you love a bit of fake tan you'll really appreciate how well this scrub removes any leftover tan that's clinging on for dear life on. The hand cream hits the spot too - non greasy, hydrating and thanks to the aloe vera it helps soothe sore, irritated skin.

Both products contain lime, basil and rosemary. Rosemary is one of my least favourite scents, I would go as far as saying I can't stand it and I know I'm not alone there. So I'm sure many of you will be pleased to know that it mainly smells like lime which I love :) Both products now take pride of place on my sink and I even love the colour of the packaging, pearlescent light green.

Have you tried the new Gardeners range from Organic Surge?

Organic Surge Gardeners Hand Scrub, 7.99 & Hand Cream, 7.99 from www.organicsurge.com

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Review: Silky Sexy Hair Frizz Eliminator For Thick/Coarse Hair

 After trying out a few products from the Big Sexy Hair line I decided to change direction and go down the silky, sleek route. I still want big hair but if you're a frizzy girl like me, you need something to tame the dreaded frizz, leave your locks feeling soft and help out a wee bit in the shine department. Silky Sexy Hair Frizz Eliminator does just that even when used along side mousse which is how I use it. The results are amazing! You still get the hold you need from a mousse but instead of ending up with a mane which feels coarse and stiff, my hair feels like silk. My colour looks more vibrant, the shine makes my hair appear healthy which it isn't and the softness stays until the next wash.

The fact that it's been designed for thick/coarse hair gave me the impression it would be thick, gloopy and weigh my hair down but it hasn't in the slightest. I would go as far as saying it's one of the best serums I own and the claim of being humidity resistant is true. I got caught in the rain while waiting on a taxi on Saturday night which would usually leave me looking like I've jumped head first through ten hedges but nothing happened. My curls stayed intact, they didn't frizz up and even by Sunday my hair still looked decent.

I work 3-4 pumps through my midlengths/ends then take whatever product is left on my hands through my roots to help with flyaways. It can be used after styling too if the ends of your hair are a bit worse for wear and you need  to further disguise any damage.

Have you tried this or any other products from the Silky Sexy Hair line?

Silky Sexy Hair Frizz Eliminator For Thick/Coarse Hair is available from www.hairtrade.com

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Review: Odylique by Essential Care Gentle Herb Shampoo

If you're looking for a Soil Association approved shampoo that really breaks down every teeny tiny bit of product build up and was awarded a gold medal as the 'standout' winner in the prestigious Free From Skincare Awards then look no further.

While testing out the Odylique by Essential Care Gentle Herb Shampoo* I realised it's the perfect clarifying shampoo for me. It's suitable for babies, relieves itchy flaky scalps and is gentle as promised but for me it's just so bloomin' good at removing any product I've applied throughout the week so now takes pride of place on the Sunday Shelf with the other 'once a week-ers' Gentle Herb Shampoo is free from SLES, ALS, artificial preservatives, fragrance and salt. If you've used a detergent free shampoo before you'll be used to the lack of suds. The suds are still there, it lathers up well but in a much more gentle way which can take some getting used to but don't worry, how well a product lathers has nothing at all to do with how effective it is and take my word for it, it's effective. The inclusion of organic aloe vera, chamomile, rosemary and biodynamic nettle and horsetail stimulates healthy hair growth and works wonders on itchy scalps.

I've already mentioned how good it is at removing product build up but unlike most, my hair isn't left feeling stripped. It does have that squeak to it but thanks to the organic coconut oil my hair feels silky smooth once styled. The packaging is fantastic too, more shampoos should come in a pump bottle (you wouldn't believe how many times I've had to use both my teeth and hands to get any shampoo out of certain bottles) and I'm lovin' the new updated design.

Have you tried this shampoo?

Odylique by Essential Care Gentle Herb Shampoo 11 quid for 200ml from www.essential-care.co.uk

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Filorga Time-Filler Eyes

'An absolute eye correction cream' that one line had me weak at the knees.

I have no idea how many eye creams I've tried out over the years but it's a lot! From cheap as chips to eye wateringly expensive but I'm always left wanting more. No matter the price point, I'm never 100% happy with the results or lack of in most cases so for that reason I'm not loyal to any one eye cream.

Filorga Time-Filler Eyes* makes a number of claims, claims I roll my eyes at usually. It doesn't focus on just one concern, instead it aims to tackle a number of them. A botox-like active ingredient combined with a powerful peptide smoothes out wrinkles/expression lines while a peeling-like active ingredient gives dark circles the boot. Latest generation plumping spheres help fill up hollow areas, a lifting complex gets in the way of gravity and your eye lids sagging, and wait for it - it increases lash volume. Is that blurb not impressive? I was instantly sucked in but at the same time thought 'mhmm, next!'

So, does it work? Yes but lets get the lash claim out of the way first. I haven't noticed any difference in the lash department as of yet but I'm hoping that with continued use I'll see a big change. What impressed me most was that it actually does get rid of dark circles, not fully but enough for me to be floored by the results. As for using an eye cream on my lids and pressing it into my lash line, even just the thought of it was enough to make my eyes sting but I've had no problems at all. There's a definite scent to the cream so how it hasn't irritated my sensitive eyes is beyond me but I'm not complaining. The texture is gorgeous and only the tiniest amount of product is needed to cover the entire eye area. There's no heavy, greasy feeling left behind on the skin nor does it make bags appear worse. I've been using it day and night for weeks now and still haven't made a dent, looks barely used so I'm guessing I'll get another 2 months use from it which is good as it isn't the cheapest and I don't fancy forking out almost 50 quid every month. The packaging is also lovely. At first I thought it was frosted glass but nope, it's plastic so I don't need to worry about smashing it. It looks big but don't be fooled, it only holds 15ml of product which is the norm when it comes to eye cream

Have you tried this or any other products from Filorga?
What's the best eye cream you've ever used?

Filorga Time-Filler Eyes, 44 quid available from www.marksandspencer.com

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NOTD: The Mismatched Mani

Is it just me who changes their nail colour more often when the weather gets better? 

My nails have been breaking, splitting and peeling like mad lately. Everytime I get them all to an even length one snaps and sickens my happiness so to pretty them up a bit I grabbed some pastel shades and a dotting tool (which still makes no difference, I can never get perfect polka dots) and got my mismatch on. 

Products used:

Nails Inc Kensington Caviar Base Coat

Barry M Sugar Apple

L'Oreal Opera Ballerina

Nails Inc Electric Teal

O.P.I Alpine Snow

Nails Inc Bluebell

Nails Inc Power Pink

Nails Inc Kensington Caviar Top Coat

What's on your digits today?

Do you have any tips for achieving the perfect polka dot?

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The Lip Product Addict TAG!

1. Favourite balm/treatment? There are so many great lip treatments out there but there's one which instantly made a difference to the condition of my lips from the very use, Lanolips.

2. Best eye-catching red? Sephora's own line of make up is fantastic and the Cream Lip Stain in 'Strawberry Kissed' has been a firm favourite of mine since 2012. A long lasting power pout with a matte finish,

3. Best luxury and best drug store? I don't own many luxury lip products, there are so many great lipsticks out there for under a fiver but if I had to choose one it would be YSL Rouge Volupte in Peach Passion as it was from Lina and whats not to love about that packaging? Max Factor Bewitching Coral wins when it comes to drug store. The colour is stunning and lasts all day.

4. Best MAC lipstick? Creme Cup is my most used MAC lippy but Speak Louder wins this time. It's in my favourite finish, cremesheen, and makes my teeth appear whiter plus it stains the lips for hours.

5. The most disappointing? I've been thinking about this question for ages and honestly can't think of any other than Model Co Shine Ultra Lip Gloss in Strip Tease it's string city in a tube. Can't believe it's almost 20 quid, so glad I picked it up as a magazine freebie.

6. Liner, yes or no? I have no time for liner, it looks way too obvious on me and I always end up with a wonky mouth. When I do use liner though, I use it all over like a lipstick.

7. Best gloss? Armed with a Debenhams gift card and sucked in my the blurb, this was a blind buy but one I ended up loving. The Dior Addict Lip Polish Spin-On Lacquer Smoothing Glow may have a stupidly long name but it's a fantastic gloss.

8. Something extra? My most recent lip discovery is the Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Pink Pop. It has the most gorgeous shine with just the right amount of colour, I feel all springy and summery every time I use it.

I tag all of you! :)
Feel free to leave your links in the comments if you've already shared your answers.

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Personalised Phone Cases from Mr Nutcase

Let me hold your phone and I can guarantee that within one minute the screen will be smashed. I'm like a magician but rather than pulling expensive items out from behind your ear and leaving the person thinking 'wow, I want to see that again' I hand back bruised phones and lets be honest, no one wants a repeat performance. Usually when it comes to phone cases I turn to eBay, always lured in by the cheap prices. They might look pretty but not once have they protected my phone, you just need to look at my drawer full of old phones to see the abuse they went through thanks to my butter fingers. So, when I was contacted by Mr Nutcase and asked if I would like to design my own case I jumped at the chance.

Taking my history with phones into account I made the sensible choice and went for the Executive Flip Leather Style* which currently can only have print on one side but that suits me fine, I didn't want anything OTT. You can pick how many images you want to add but I decided to keep it simple with just one, my blog header, and I'm really pleased with how it turned out. The case itself is nice and sturdy so I'm hopeful my clumsy claws won't cause any more carnage.

They offer free worldwide delivery and if you live in the UK your order will be on it's way to you the next working day. Mr Nutcase have kindly shared a discount code for my readers 'Thanku10' which will get you 10% off their custom phone cases :) 

Are you a serial phone dropper?

The Executive Flip Leather Style Case, 19.95 from www.mrnutcase.com

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NOTD: Nail Girls 'Nude Pink'

How gorgeous is this colour? At first I thought Nude Pink* was just an ordinary baby pink which I have more than just a few of in my collection but once on the nails it has an almost dirty look to it. Not dirty in a 'I've just been diggin' for spuds' kinda way but almost like those grey tinged lilac shades. It stops the pink looking too Barbie but still looks pretty.

The formula is thick, no sheer coverage here. Two coats is all it takes to get an opaque finish but I have a feeling it's gonna do a Seche Vite on me after a few more uses. By the time I got to doing the 2nd coat I noticed gloopy strings starting to appear each time I removed excess polish from the brush to the bottle neck. I haven't had this problem with the other shade I own and it's around two years old now so the formula definitely varies from one shade to the next.

Products used:
Nails Inc Kensington Caviar Base Coat
Nail Girls London 'Nude Pink'
Nails Inc Kensington Caviar Top Coat

If you like to avoid certain ingredients when it comes to nail polish then you'll be pleased to know all Nail Girls London polishes are free from Camphor, Formaldehyde, Dibutyl Phthalate and Toulene.

Have you tried any polishes from Nail Girls London?

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May 2014: Love Me Beauty Box

The postie handed over my Love Me Beauty box this morning and as usual I ripped into it like a wild beast! This month I went for Menu 1*, Lets see what I got...

Raw Skincare Natural Lip Balm in 'Hint Of Mint', RRP: 1.98 (full size): I've heard a few people mention this brand now and as a mint lover, I obviously had to go for the menu containing the mint option. It contains organic coconut oil and cocoa butter and best of all, tastes/smells like After Eights.

Nail Girls Nail Polish in 'Nude Pink', RRP: 13.50 (full size): I've only tried one nail polish from Nail Girls before (review & swatches) the bottles seem to have changed since then but as far as I know the formula is still 4 Free. No Formaldehyde, Dibutyl Phthalate, Camphor or Toulene.

GO Stationery Pocket Notebook Set in 'Vintage Daisy', RRP: 5: Notebooks excite me. No idea why, they just do and as a blogger it's always handy to have one, two or in this case, three on hand. The Vintage Daisy set is adorable, I love the designs and will definitely be taking a closer look at GO Stationery.

Suti Cleanse Balm, Purity Balm and Fabulous Foot Balm Trial Pack, RRP: 6.50: Another brand I've heard lots about but never tried. Each pot contains 4ml of product which isn't much but hopefully I'll get enough uses from them to form an opinion.

Tea Pigs Chocolate Flake Tea x3, RRP: 60p (per tea bag): Chocolate Flake Tea is a mix of strong tea with a hint of rich dark chocolate. I don't drink tea, once in a blue moon I'll force myself to have a cuppa green but that's as far as it goes so these will be passed on to a tea addict.

What do you think of this months box?

Are you subscribed to Love Me Beauty?

Love Me Beauty 10 quid plus p&p from lovemebeauty.com

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Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over Texturizing & Finishing Spray

Every time I show my mum a product like this I can predict the six words that will follow 'you've already got big hair sure' she's right but it's only big because it's curly, frizzy, thick and almost elbow length. Once I've styled my head beard, banished the frizz and whatever else, it's limp bizkit at the roots thanks to the weight. The mention of 'Flip It Over' made me imagine this product would give me masses of body in the root area but if I'd bothered to read the description properly instead of getting overly excited I would've realised that's not what this product is designed to do.

Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over Texturizing & Finishing Spray* is exactly that, a texturizing and finishing spray. Sorry to sound like captain obvious but I wouldn't want anyone to buy it thinking they're getting a root booster of some sort. It's designed to be used on dry hair after styling. You flip your head over, spraying and scrunching/shaking you're hands through your hair at the same time then flip your head back over. The end result is what I was hoping to get from the Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray, texture that lasts with a decent amount of hold plus it makes my hair appear fuller. It can also be used after all the hair flipping to hold your style in place but I don't feel the need to do this.

After having a quick look at reviews, it seems you'll either love it or loathe it. I like that it's an aerosol rather than a squirty bottle as it allows me to spray the product more evenly over my hair instead of directly on to one spot. It sprays out just like a hair spray and feels similar but slightly more sticky so it's important to make sure you spray from arms length.

Have you tried this or any other products from the Big Sexy Hair range?

What's your favourite texturizing product?

Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over Texturizing & Finishing Spray, 11.25 from www.hairtrade.com

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Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in 'Pink Pop'

Lip gloss is something my make up collection lacks, big time. Usually when I'm having a look around Boots, Superdrug, [insert name of any make up haven] I go through all the different make up stands with a fine tooth comb but always overlook the lip gloss sections. While in a local chemist which only has two make up displays, Rimmel and NYC, I noticed the NYC stand had been ditched in favour of Revlon so while waiting for my prescription and only having two stands to occupy myself with, I came across Revlon's Super Lustrous Lip Glosses. 

Quite a few shades caught my eye, there was a shimmery nude I really liked the look of but decided to do the sensible thing and only buy one to see how I got on with the formula. In the end I decided on Pink Pop which is a completely shimmer free creme. In the tube it looks very intense, almost like a liquid lipstick but it is indeed a true gloss. Nowhere near opaque but the pigmentation is decent, you can definitely notice the colour on your lips and the shine is gorgeous. As with most glosses, the staying power isn't fantastic, you'll find yourself needing to reapply throughout the day but the formula is nice, not sticky or gloopy in the slightest, it actually feels moisturising. I really like the packaging too, there's just something about it that appeals to me and for just under 7 quid I think it's a bargain, one of the better glosses I've tried regardless of price point. 

Have you tried the Super Lustrous Lip Glosses?

What shade should I go for next?

Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Glosses are available from Boots and Superdrug

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Love: Lauren's Way Solution 60 Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse

Anyone else a bit stand off-ish when it comes to celebrity products? I've always had this idea in my head that companies slap a celebs name on any old crap just to make a sale, which is definitely the case sometimes but tanning fanatics you're in for a treat as that isn't the case at all when it come's to Lauren Goodger's brand. The tanning experts at LW Tan have come up with a new rapid self tan: Laurens Way Solution 60 Self-Tan Bronzing Mousse* which is available as a mousse or a spray. After only an hour you can jump in the shower to rinse off the guide colour and you'll be left with a natural, golden tan but of course you can leave it on longer if you prefer a more intense tan.

 There are a number of reasons why I'm head over heels for this mousse (1) The guide colour is fantastic. Not only does it ensure you'll clearly be able to see if you've missed any random patches but the colour is instant and not at all mucky looking meaning you won't look like you've just stepped out of a pigsty if you have to leave the house shortly after having applied it. Infact, the guide colour is much nicer than the end result of most tans. (2) One coat is all it takes to get a gorgeous, golden even colour. Don't judge but my usual tanning ritual involves up to 4 coats. It's still buildable though so you can layer away til your heart's content. (3) After no longer than a minute I was able to get dressed. No walking around like an upright crab. (4) It can be used on both the body and face. I always use the same tan on my face as on my body anyway but the difference was I didn't wake up looking like I'd been dipped face first into a frying pan. The tan didn't settle into my pores either which is a massive plus. (4) I can't comment on the spray version but when it come's to the mousse, a little goes a long way. 4 pumps is enough for both arms and the chest/neck area.

The first tan I ever used was a mousse. I was hooked after the first use when the salon I was a Saturday girl in about 11 years ago used St Tropez on me for my school formal. I bought bottle after bottle of the stuff but the older I got, the more mousse tans had a drying effect on my skin so I switched to liquid tan. That's the main reason I went for the mousse version of Solution 60, I wanted to see if mousses had improved since I last used them. Luckily it hasn't dried out my skin nor does it highlight the random dry patch I always seem to have on my arm.

The only bad point I can think of is how quickly it dries. This is a plus point for me and I'm sure it will be for most people who are used to applying fake tan but you need to work fast to blend it all in with a mitt before it starts to stain certain areas of skin and not others. If you're a first time tanner it may take a bit of practise.

Have you tried this or any other tan from LW?

Laurens Way Solution 60, 19.95 from www.laurensway.com

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*PR sample

Review: BarryM Gelly Hi-Shine 'Sugar Apple'

Yes, another nail post. Sorry, not really.

The biggest fan of Barry M nail polishes I am not but the one and only Gelly Hi-Shine I picked up last year in the shade Pomegranate did impress me. After seeing swatches of the new pastel shades which have been added to the line, it was love! Sugar Apple was the one that grabbed my attention most but nothing prepared me for what I felt when I first laid eye's on it in person. Dramatic? Of course. In my ever growing nail polish collection I have similar shades. Some people might did say 'they're the same, you don't need it!' but what do they know.

What make's this different to what I already own is the amount of white in the base. It's vibrant yet muted at the same time. So it's safe to say the colour is a hit but the formula? Don't even get me started. Yes it has the same thick consistency as Pomegranate which didn't bother me in the slightest, I quite liked it but what it lacks is the same self levelling effect. Pastel shades usually are on the streaky side due to the amount of white added but Sugar Apple is possibly the worst pastel I've ever tried. Another down side is the finish. It's no surprise that it isn't overly glossy as pastels generally don't have that amazing shiny finish you get from dark shades but it kinda takes away from the whole 'Gelly' finish Barry M were going for.

So even though I loathe the formula, I love the colour too much to stop using it but if you know of any dupes please let me know.

What are your thoughts on the new Gelly Hi-Shine's?

Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paints, 3.99 from Superdrug and Boots

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April 2014: Used, Abused & Reviewed.

If I've reviewed a product, I've made the product name clickable to take you straight to the post for more info.

Klorane Smoothing & Relaxing Eye Patches: I do like these but I'm still searching for 'the one' as far as eye patches are concerned. They're the best I've tried so far though in terms how how effective they are. The ingredients however, not so good.

Repurchase? Undecided.

Sarah Chapman Skinesis Skin Tone Perfecting Booster, Intense Hydrating Booster, Overnight Facial & Dynamic Defence Day Cream: If you've been a reader of my blog from 2012, you'll already know I'm a huge Sarah Chapman fan.If not, you can see my reviews here and here. Ultimate Cleanse is my pick of the bunch, I've gone through countless sample sizes as well as full size.

Repurchase? Not everything but most, definitely Ultimate Cleanse.

RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum: Revitalash I liked but this, it did nada for me.

Repurchase? No.

Di Palomo Tuscan Rose Hand & Body Cream*: I used this only as a hand cream but it took too long to sink in and the scent wasn't my cuppa tea which is weird, I usually love rose scented products.

Repurchase? No.

Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara x2: LOVE!
Repurchase? Already have.

Eylure Dylash Lash & Brow Dye Kit: Been using this stuff for years but barely ever use it on myself now as I've finally found a brow pencil that matches the natural colour of my brows and when I use this, it just looks odd against the colour of the pencil but I still use it on my mum every month and it lasts aaaages. Would never pay to have my brows tinted now when you consider how cheap this is and how many uses you get. Click the link to read my review, there's also before and after photos.

Repurchase? Already have.

Caribbean Essentials Radiance Facial Spritz*: I love vanilla, this smells like vanilla = love. My skin adored this when it was going through a dry beyond belief phase as it's so hydrating.

Repurchase? Yes, probably during Winter though. 

SBC Collagen Gel: I've had travel size bottles of this and the 500ml bottles. Used it as both a mask at night and in place of moisturiser which I kinda liked at first but quickly went off it big time. Even though it's a light water based gel I found it sticky and wasn't able to layer it as they suggest.

Repurchase? No.

JASON Family Natural Sunblock SPF 45*: Using this took me back to being a kid. To me it smells like a banana-ish flavoured medicine, anyone know what I mean? This tube isn't completely but I'm sure it's out of date by now.

Repurchase? Not sure.

He-Shi Express Liquid Tan: I'm a bit of a cheat when it comes to tanning, I only apply it to the skin that's visible when I'm wearing clothes. Yup, I look ridiculous in the buff but who cares, it saves time and product which means a bottle of this liquid gold lasts me twice as long. Love the Express Liquid Tan, have recommended it so many times.

Repurchase? Definitely but I'm testing out a cheaper alternative at the mo.

Amie Bright Eyes Gentle Make Up Remover*: Not the most effective make up remover I've ever tried, takes a bit longer to get rid of my eye make up than I'd like but it is gentle as promised and smells good.

Repurchase? No.

NEXT Paradise Perfume: A few years back I couldn't get enough of this! The lasting power was great, as was the price but sadly it's been discontinued.

Repurchase? If I could, I would.

The Body Shop 100% Natural Lip Roll-On in Coconut: Another non empty but I'm sure it's expired by now. Loved it at first, especially the cooling metal roller-ball applicator but I've found so many other lip products I prefer.

Repurchase? Not sure if it's still available but no.

Super Facialist by Una Brennan Vitamin C+ Brighten Dark Circles Eye Cream*: A brilliant, affordable eye cream. It hydrates without making the baggage are worse but the main reason I wanted to try this eye cream was because of the brightening of dark circles claim which sadly it didn't do for me.

Repurchase? Maybe but I'm not loyal to any eye cream.

Origins A Perfect World Antioxidant Moisturiser: The texture of this is heavenly, as is the feeling it leaves on the skin but like most things, the more often I used it it caused hives to pop up all over my face.

Repurchase? No.

The Body Shop Orange & Tangelo Candle: This smells unreal! Seriously, I can't explain how much I love it but, the scent throw leaves a lot to be desired. I made the mistake of lighting this half an hour before I needed to head out #EagerBeever which of course resulted in major tunneling. When the candle finally burnt out after a few weeks I was left with quite alot of wax so rather than chuck it in the bin, I removed it from the glass and used it in my oil/tart burner. When used in the burner the scent throw was amazing so now I definitely want to try the oil version.

Repurchase? Yes but not at full price, I always wait for a sale then stock up on home fragrance-y things from TBS. Plus I found an Ikea dupe which is much cheaper.

Air Wick Colour Change Candle in Pink Sweet Pea: Not my favourite candles by a long shot but when they're on offer I can't help myself. I usually love sweet pea scented candles but this was OTT, way too floral for my liking but the glasses do come in handy for storing liners. :)

Repurchase? Yes but in other scents.

Dunnes White Cotton Candle: Dunnes stores are only in N.Ire/Ire as far as I know. It's an affordable clothing store that also sells bits and bobs for the home. At under 3 quid this candle got the job done and lasted a REALLY long time.

Repurchase? More than likely, might try a different scent next time though.

Did you work your way through many things last month?

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*PR sample