The January Beauty Selection

Origins Calm to Your Senses stress relieving mask  //  Nars Sheer Glow Foundation  //  Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium  //  Bumble & Bumble Pret-a-Powder  //  Olivia Burton watch

There was a time when I'd do weekly favourites posts, but it isn't something I'll be starting again. These days, I find that I'm far more selective with my beauty purchases, and equally, they tend to remain in my affections for a great deal longer. I've long been one to do my research when it comes to beauty shopping, but at one point I was so eager that I'd buy several cleansers or lipsticks all at once, meaning that none of them received the chance they deserved, and my skin and hair had no opportunity to reap the benefits of the products I was putting on them. So, it's back to monthly round-ups, which personally, I find far more telling. If something has been able to hold my attention for several weeks or more, then it has to be worth some consideration.

Suffice to say, my favourites for January are all very well loved, and I can say with certainty that I won't be casting any of them aside the moment that February shows its face. All of my chosen five for the month have been featured here on the blog quite recently, and I like them so much that they definitely deserve a second outing. If you'd like to read the original reviews, then simply click on the names below.

The new Origins Calm to Your Senses stress relieving facial mask has become a firm bedtime favourite, with relaxing lavender and chamomile to soothe your skin as well as your mind. Although reasonably light in consistency, it's rich enough to pack a real moisturising punch, and a light layer massaged in before turning the lights out is all it takes to send me into an easy, peaceful sleep. In the morning, there's no sign of any residue, and skin is brighter and softer. This certainly isn't as rich as the iconic Intensive Overnight Treatment Mask, so if you find that one too heavy then don't be put off. A perfect multi-tasker for those who want to pamper themselves effortlessly, the Calm to Your Senses mask is a surefire winner.

The Nars Sheer Glow foundation is a repurchase, after I originally fell in love with the dewy yet flawless finish it provided back in October. Sheer Glow is absolutely one of those rare 'wow' foundations, and I can remember literally marvelling at the results in the mirror on the very first application. The only downside with this is that it doesn't come with a pump applicator, so I often find myself pouring too much of it out at once. That said, the medium, buildable coverage it offers is more than worth the hassle, and this is set to stick around my makeup back for years and years to come.

I received Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium for Christmas, and have been keenly spritzing it on ever since. It's been a while since I opted for quite such a sweet fragrance, but the undertones of vanilla and spices make this a sophisticated and mature scent that I just keep finding myself going back to. The packaging is definitely a plus point too, as in its glamorous black bottle with a subtle hint of sparkle, it looks the part as well as smelling it.

I certainly won't be the last person to sing the praises of Bumble & Bumble's Pret-a-Powder. This is one hair product that has achieved cult status for all the right reasons, and has become my trusted secret weapon against flat, oily or lacklustre hair. Perfect for freshening up a lank looking fringe, Pret-a-Powder's real power lies in its root-plumping qualities, and a light sprinkling of product massaged into roots equals instantly volumised hair.

Finally, a non-beauty item, which comes in the shape of my beloved Olivia Burton watch. With a large, rose-gold face and navy leather strap, it has instantly converted me from a non-watch-wearer to a wristwear obsessive, and I adore the way that it adds a simple air of sophistication to even the most casual of looks.

What have your favourite beauty products been for January 2015? 

Do you have any non-beauty picks?

xx

Origins 'Calm to Your Senses' stress-relieving mask

Origins Calm to Your Senses stress-relieving mask

When I get wind of a new Origins product launch, I certainly don't need telling twice, the arrival of their Calm to Your Senses stress-relieving face mask had me racing straight for my nearest counter in a desperate bid to get my hands on a tube. I feel like I've referred to this a lot lately, but I'm a worrier by nature, and I often get myself far too worked up over things that I probably won't even remember a month down the line. I also have trouble with sleeping - I usually drop off all too easily, but I regularly wake up in the night and am unable to drift off again for a good couple of hours, which leaves me feeling tired and drained the following day in spite of having gone to bed nice and early. As a result, I'm forever on the lookout for products which serve to aid relaxation, and there is nothing I love more than a good pamper session and a long wind-down before I climb under the bed covers. Of course, it's rarely possible to go the whole hog during the week, as the evenings pass quickly and most of us will go to bed earlier, so the ideal is to have something on hand that will do the work for you.

Enter, Origins Calm to Your Senses.

A rich, creamy face mask containing buckbean and St. Paul's Wort extract to target tense, stressed-looking skin, it is not dissimilar to the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask, in that you massage in a generous amount prior to bedtime and leave it to do its work overnight. Barrier-building plant butters help to replenish the skin's moisture reserves while you sleep, leaving it plump, soft and hydrated upon awakening, while a relaxing blend of lavender and chamomile soothe and calm the senses helping you to drift off more easily.

I'm not the biggest fan of lavender, but I do find it very calming when I'm ready to go to bed. I often reach for the This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray, which is very helpful, and definitely speeds up the time it takes me to get to sleep when I get into bed with my mind still racing. That said, the Calm to Your Senses mask doesn't have a strong lavender scent at all, and in fact, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it smelled like oranges (much like the brand's High Potency Night-A-Mins). It's a pleasure to apply, and sinks easily into the skin - I find that while it is rich, it is lighter than the Drink Up Intensive mask, so if that one was too heavy for you then don't be put off.

In the morning, there is no residue left on my skin, but thanks to its plumping, hydrating effects, I often find myself reaching for it regardless of whether I'm worried about sleeping or not. As to whether or not it helps me to drift off, the jury is still out - as I mentioned, it's rare that I have trouble in that department anyway, but it definitely does make me feel relaxed when I get into bed with it on. I love that it takes just a few short seconds to apply and doesn't have to be washed off, as this makes it a real time-saver that be can used anytime, anywhere.

I'll be doing a round-up of some of my favourite products for relaxation soon, as I seem to have built up quite the collection. Do you have any favourites?

xx

The Weekly Selection

The Body Shop Vitamin C Face Spritz  //  Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate  //  Benefit They're Real Mascara  //  Benefit Gimme Brow

Hi everyone, hope you've all had a fabulous weekend and have been enjoying all this sunshine we've been having. I definitely have, squeezing two barbecues, a boat trip and plenty of sunbathing into the past couple of days, and I'll be posting some photos shortly. For now,  it's that time of the week again, so here are my weekly favourites.

I love a good facial spritz at the best of times, but in the summer months, all the more so, and I find myself readily spraying away at every given opportunity. The Body Shop Vitamin C Face Spritz is my number one wake-me-up weapon at the moment, with a zingy citrus scent to refresh and invigorate. It gives my skin a boost, but it also targets my senses - definitely an added bonus, and an all-round winner.

I love a nice radiance-boosting mask in the springtime, and I really feel that my skin benefits from a bi-weekly boost in the form of the Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate, which I reviewed earlier this week. It's one of those unexpected winners, where it doesn't seem to be anything special, but on giving it a try it is pleasantly surprising. If you're interested in knowing more, then I'll let you go and read my post on it.

Also on my hit list this week have been two absolute treats from Benefit. If  I remember rightly, the They're Real Mascara featured in my last favourites post - but hey, I'm breaking all the rules, and it's in here again. Personally, I see now problem with repeat appearances in these sorts of things, as it only serves to prove that they really are well loved. I'd rather that than choose something I wasn't all that enthralled with just to fill the space - that wouldn't be honest, and it wouldn't get any of us anywhere.

Anyway, as I would have mentioned previously, this is a mascara I was reluctant to try - or should I say, buy -  as I wasn't willing to believe that any mascara could warrant an £18-odd price tag. However, I was forced to eat my words on receiving this as part of a birthday present, because actually it is pretty wonderful, and I'm keeping a tight hold.

Last up is Benefit Gimme Brow - another item included in my Benefit birthday bundle of goodies. I love brow products, and never go a day without reaching for a gel, powder or wax to give mine some sort of shape. Thanks to the dreaded over-plucking as a teenager (thanks, sis), they are now a bit on the..well, wonky side, so although they are fairly thick and full, they can always do with a bit of extra help.

Gimme Brow is a two in one product, as it serves as a setting gel but is also tinted. I use this to shape and fill my brows all in one go, but I do still reach for a powder to fill in the tails as I find it easier to get a precise finish.

Those are my lot for this week, but already I can feel some more products making their way up in my mental favourites list, so expect lots of enthusiasm over the next few weeks!

What have been your favourite products lately?

xx

Review: Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate

                                                       Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate

Face masks are undoubtedly one of my favourite little indulgences. There's nothing quite like kicking back on a Sunday evening for a good old relax, and whether my skin is feeling dry, dehydrated, oily or dull, there's usually something on hand that can help.

One of my most recent finds is the Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate, which aims to rejuvenate the skin, replenishing radiance, as well as offering powerful anti-oxidant protection and a decent hit of moisture.

With 89% natural ingredients, including a green tea infusion to enhance the mask's anti-oxidant action, it was always going to go down well with me. It's  creamy and  lotion-like in consistency - not as thick as you would probably expect a mask to be. With a subtle fruity fragrance, it's pleasant to use, and is applied generously before being left for ten minutes.

I must admit, I was rather surprised by the results after using this product for the first time. Something about fairly liquid masks that don't dry tends to make me assume that they can't be all that powerful, but in this case, I was proved pleasantly wrong. The mask left my skin looking fresh and clean, with a genuinely radiant glow.

I now use the mask a couple of times a week - generally when I'm looking a bit dull or dehydrated - and it does a great job of pepping things up and giving me a bit of a pick-me-up.

This was my first foray into the world of Apivita, and I'll definitely be back for more.

The Apivita Face Mask with Pomegranate is available at £13 from Marks & Spencer.

Have you tried anything else from Apivita? If so, what would you recommend?

xx

Review: Raw Gaia Skincare

I've talked at length in the past about how much I believe in using good quality skincare with lots of natural, nutritious ingredients, and nothing has changed much on that score. That isn't to say that I go 100% natural 100% of the time. But where possible, I do like to go for organic and natural products in order to really nourish my skin, without bombarding it with harsh chemicals and the like.

Recently, I stumbled across Raw Gaia, and couldn't wait to treat myself to an evening pamper with their 

Raw Chocolate Face Pack* and Cold Pressed Organic Rosehip Oil*. The products are raw, vegan, cruelty free and fair trade, and made up of 100% natural ingredients.

The Raw Chocolate Face Pack smells absolutely divine, and if I didn't know any better I'd believe I was smothering my face in nothing but chocolatey goodness. Actually, the product is packed with lots of other lovely, natural skin treats, including red clay, turmeric and Amla fruit powder.  Red clay is a powerhouse of iron oxides, brightening skin and renewing cells. Turmeric is probably something you've got in your kitchen cupboard, and is packed with anti oxidants to fend off aging free radicals and even out skin tone. Amla - also known as Indian gooseberry - also offers a whole host of benefits, from clearer skin to a brighter complexion. It all sounded pretty good to me, and I knew I would enjoy putting it to the test.

The mask comes in powder form, and to use, must be mixed with warm water to form a paste. I popped a teaspoon into a bowl and stirred in a few drops at a time to ensure that the consistency was thick enough, before applying liberally and leaving for ten minutes. To be honest, it can be quite a messy process, so it's important to make sure you've got the right tools to hand rather that hashing together a mixture in the lid, which I must admit, is what I did the first time! The face pack quickly dries to a reddish-brown mask, and though you can definitely tell it's there, it doesn't feel heavy or prevent you from moving your facial muscles, as some do!

After rinsing with warm water and patting skin dry with a towel, skin feels soft, nourished and comfortable.

*

Like the face pack, the Cold Pressed Rosehip Oil comes in frosted glass packaging , and this time, it's a bottle. Personally, I would have preferred a pipette applicator in order to make it easier to dispense the right amount, as in its absence there is a risk of spilling excess product, which would inevitably go to waste.

Rosehip oil is a fantastic source of vitamins, anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids that play a vital role in the regeneration and health of skin cells. With the ability to actively reverse damage caused by sun exposure and environmental stress, it's something I've been meaning to try for some while now, as if you've been following my posts for some while then you'll know that I went through months of skin issues last year. I've always been really lucky in that department, with barely a spot to contend with even as a teenager. But last year, out of nowhere, I started suffering from quite bad breakouts, which lasted for some months, and although my skin is now back to normal, I can still see a few little marks that have been left behind when I haven't got any makeup on.

A couple of drops of this patted into the skin sink in easily without leaving a greasy, and leaves skin feeling super soft in the morning. I'll be reporting back on this one further down the line, as I am going to be keeping an eye on how well it works in terms of skintone. But as yet, I'm really enjoying using both the products and would definitely recommend Raw Gaia to anyone who is into natural skincare - and especially those of you who are trying to cut chemical nasties from your routines.

Do you use much natural skincare? If so, I'd love to know your favourite products, as I'm always on the lookout for new things to try.

xx

The Sunday Pamper Session

Sundays are a day for relaxing, recharging, and most importantly, a bit of pampering to get you ready for the coming week.

If you'll excuse the quality of this photo (I'm currently camera-less and having to make do with my Ipad), this week I'm sharing all of the products I'm using to treat myself a little bit.

We recently moved house, and when we arrived, there was a problem with the water pressure that meant filling the bath was impossible. Thankfully, that has just been rectified, so tonight is bubble bath night!

I pop the taps on, and let the hot water fill up about halfway before adding a dash of Radox Stress Relief Bubble Bath. This stuff is seriously bubbly, and with the calming fragrance of rosemary and eucalyptus, it's perfect for a pre-bedtime bath.

While the bath is running, I usually apply a dollop of Charles Worthington Intense Rescue Melting Balm to dry hair, leaving it to work its magic for around twenty minutes. It's quite thick and waxy in consistency, but when rubbed between the palms it becomes more of an oil. It's great for dry or damaged hair, as it's highly nourishing, leaving locks soft and shiny. You do need to take extra care when rinsing it out though, as not doing it properly will result in a bit of an unsightly oil slick. I rinse mine with my Aussie Aussome Volume Shampoo, and I'm ready to go.

Once in the bath, I apply Bumble & Bumble Quenching Masque to my hair, and pin it up out of the way. It's a thick, creamy conditioner which really adds life to hair, replenishing any lost moisture and making hair all the more manageable.  I wouldn't usually go for two hair treatments, but as this is a weekly treat, I like to go the whole hog and keep all bases covered.

Tonight, I'm trying out the Raw Gaia Raw Chocolate Face Pack*, a lovely, 100% natural mask made from (you've guessed it) raw organic chocolate, red clay and turmeric, as well as some other skin-friendly goodies. It comes in powder form, so before my bath I mixed a teaspoon with warm water in a bowl to form a thick paste. Now it's time to spread it on to ready-cleansed skin - it dries quite quickly, and absolutely smells good enough to eat. It's a great choice for detoxing the skin, leaving it soft and comfortable, and over time it also offers healing benefits such as the evening out of skin tone.

I leave it for ten minutes, then wash off, also rinsing the conditioning mask out of my hair.

I'm going for a double whammy this evening, so next up it's time to pop on a radiance mask. I've gone for the Apivita Pomegranate Face Mask. Once again, I pop some on and relax for ten minutes while it gets to work.

I'm not one for reading in the bath, as much as I'd love to, I always end up getting the pages wet. I wouldn't dare read anything on my Ipad either, for fear of dropping it, so instead, I pop it onto a stand and catch up on some of my favourite Youtube channels while I enjoy my soak. 

Time to rinse off my face mask once again, and once that's done, I'm generally ready to get out. I'm a bit of a fidget, and can't stay put for too long, so off I go, slathering on some Elemis Skin Nourishing Milk Bath* as I go. I've spoken about this one before - I like to use bubbles and bath bombs when actually in the tub, which doesn't leave an awful lot of room for milks. But luckily, this one doubles up as an absolutely mind-blowing moisturiser, so I always pop some on for insanely soft skin whenever I have a bath.

At this point, I wrap my hair in a towel and get into some warm, cosy pyjamas, and mix a couple of drops of Raw Gaia Cold Pressed Rosehip Oil* with some of  the Body Shop's Vitamin E Overnight Serum-in-Oil and press into the skin. These are both really, really nourishing, and my skin feels incredible the following morning. Rosehip oil is great for fading any old scarring, and the Vitamin E leaves skin feeling plump with health.

That's pretty much it - now, I might sit on the sofa for a while under a cosy blanket, grab a cup of chamomile and catch up on my Bloglovin' feed, or go on Twitter for a while until it's time for bed! Not very rock and roll, I know, but on a Sunday night, it's exactly what I need.

Do you have a pamper session on a Sunday evening?

If so, which products do you usually go for?

xx

A Sunday Pamper Session

There was a time when a Sunday pamper came as naturally as breathing to me, but of late I've barely had time to sit back and relax, let alone slap on a face mask. So this weekend, I've decided to set aside some 'me' time and indulge myself with a good couple of hours of luxury.

To set the scene, I run myself a nice hot bath. Usually, I might go with a Lush bath bomb, or my favourite - The Comforter bubble bar. But this time, it's the Radox Herbal Bath Stress Relief Bubble Bath (not pictured). With its calming blend of rosemary and eucalyptus, it's the perfect way to unwind, easing any aches and pains as well as stilling the mind. Add to that some of my all-time favourite, the Elemis Skin Nourishing Bath Milk* and I'm guaranteed silky soft skin to boot - this stuff packs a seriously moisturising  punch, and can even be used as a body lotion, too. 

Before getting in, I usually light a couple of candles and place them around the edge of the bath. This is a new tactic I've started employing of late, as I do have a tendency to get a bit bored after a few minutes if I don't go out of my way to create a calming environment. At the moment, my candle of choice is Diptyque Noisetier*, but I generally switch things up a bit depending on how I'm feeling.

When I'm nearly ready to enjoy my bath, I take a scoop of the Charles Worthington Moisture Seal Intense Rescue Melting Balm and rub it between my palms to emulsify. Smoothing it evenly through the ends of my hair, I then pin my locks up on top of my head and I'm ready to go.

To keep me occupied during my soak, I've taken to bringing in my Ipad and popping on some of my favourite Youtube videos. It's amazing how much longer I can stay put if there is something to watch.

My skin has been looking a bit dull and lacklustre this week, so my face mask of choice this evening is the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel*. I leave this one on for a good few minutes, then massage it in a circular motion for a couple of minutes before removing with a hot cloth for smooth, radiant skin. If I still feel that I need an extra boost, then I might also pop a layer of Ren Resurfacing AHA Concentrate on when I get out, leaving it to do its magic overnight.

After twenty minutes, it's time to wash off my hair masque. I then shampoo and condition as usual - at the moment I'm using a selection from Aussie, which my locks seem more than happy with.

Once I'm done with my bath, I go for a layer of my favourite body moisturiser - M&S Indulgent Fig & Orange Oil Moisturising Body Butter. This stuff smells nicer than any other product I have ever tried - and that, I'd say, makes it an obvious choice. If you've not heard much about this range then keep an eye out for my review, coming soon.

After that, I usually go for a couple of pumps of L'oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil before drying my hair. Ordinarily, I might slap on a moisture mask before bed, or failing that, my usual toner and moisturiser. But as I'm going for the Ren Resurfacing AHA Concentrate option this evening, I'll leave it at that, as I find it does its best work when left to do its thing alone.

And that's me.

Once I'm done, it's all about curling up on the sofa with a cup of chamomile and my Ipad, with no intention of moving for the rest of the evening.

Are you having a pamper session this Sunday? Which products will you be reaching for?

xx

Review: Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask

I'm a big fan of skin-resurfacing products, and since my first experience I've made sure to have a selection of them in my skincare repertoire at all times. Nothing keeps things feeling smooth or looking radiant quite like an AHA mask or exfoliating toner, and suffice to say I really would be lost without them.

At £48, the Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask is hardly what I would call cheap, but with promises of smoother skin that's more even in tone, diminished fine lines and blemishes and reduced shine, I was willing to take a chance on it. Luckily for me though, I did manage to get it half price in a sale, which is always a huge help when trying out a pricey product for the first time. Once I know that I love something, and that it works well for me, I'm not so reluctant to part with my pennies, but until then......

I'm still not quite at the age where anti-ageing is my main concern, but I do believe that prevention is better than cure. As we age, cellular renewal gradually declines. The result? Dull and lifeless skin that's in dire need of an extra helping hand. The Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask combines patented tri-enzyme technology with Amazonian acerola cherry, white truffle Poria Cocos, great burdock, erysimum and amino acids to give skin a boost and encourage the regeneration and retexturising process. This also seems promising for anyone with oily or blemish-prone skin, as with its ability to balance sebum levels without compromising the skin's pH it can leave skin comfortable without stripping it completely of the natural oils it needs.

I began by applying the mask to cleansed skin on a weekly basis, leaving it for eight to ten minutes before removing with a warm, damp muslin cloth. As the name would suggest, it's a gel-like consistency with a pleasant fruity scent. What's really unusual about this mask is that upon application, you'll experience a powerful tingling sensation. It doesn't burn or feel uncomfortable, so it's quite tolerable - if anything, it feels quite cooling, almost menthol. I would, however, advise you to proceed with caution if your skin is really sensitive, as I can imagine this might not be the most sensible choice. I have tried out many an AHA-containing product over the past year or so, and of all of them this one certainly feels like the strongest. Saying that, it definitely didn't irritate or burn my skin in any way.

The verdict? Actually, I'm sorry to say that I was somewhat underwhelmed. My skin didn't feel nearly as smooth or soft after use as I have experienced with, say, the Ren Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask or the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel (review next week). I'm sure I remember reading somewhere that this mask does have something of a cumulative effect, in that the longer you have been using it on a weekly basis, the greater the difference you will notice, but for me I'm still waiting. My skin does feel comfortable and refreshed in the immediate aftermath, but the next day things are pretty much back to normal.

I have really enjoyed using some other products by Elemis, but sadly this particular one wasn't for me. Perhaps it would serve somebody with older skin a little bit better, but I'm glad I didn't pay the full price for it.

Have you tried any resurfacing treatments? 

What are your favourite Elemis skincare products?

xx

Review: Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel

AHAs have become an essential part of my skincare routine over the past few months, whether it's daily exfoliating toners or weekly masks. My current favourite weapon against dull and lifeless skin is most definitely the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel, which is infused with a tropical cocktail of vitamins, enzymes and skin-brightening botanicals to stimulate cell-renewal and even out the skin tone, leaving you radiant and glowing.

Apple serum, papaya, orange peel, tangerine and jojoba beads are responsible for sloughing away dead skin cells to pave the way for new epidermal growth, while vitamins A, C and E work alongside green tea and pomegranate to prevent free-radical damage. But it doesn't stop there. Manuka honey and water lily provide a powerful anti-inflamatory action to soothe and calm the skin.  Pomegranate, argan, macadamia and olive oil provide essential fatty acids to hydrate and nourish. And the multi-mineral complex of zinc, copper magnesium revitalise the skin, kick-starting cellular metabolism. So all in all, it's like a super-food for your skin - a power-smoothie, if you will!

I pop this on once or twice a week, smoothing it carefully over clean, dry skin and leaving to sit for a few minutes. The recommended time limit is four minutes, which originally led me to believe it was going to be really strong on the skin, but these days I can happily leave it for up to ten minutes if I'm a little bit busy and everything is fine (if your skin is sensitive then perhaps don't so this, though!). When the time is up, I remove the mask gently with a warm, damp muslin cloth - you could do so with water alone, but I find a cloth is really effective at getting rid of any stray jojoba beads, as well as giving skin that extra bit of exfoliation.

After use, my skin is soft, smooth and radiant. It really does leave it glowing with health, and is yet another product I would hate to be without. I'm now nearing the end of this tube, which I got as part of the Weekend Facial Set. If you are new to Elemental Herbology then I couldn't recommend this kit to you enough - for £30, you get a 30ml tube of each of their three star face masks - the Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask, Biodynamic Facial Souffle and, of course, the Facial Glow Radiance Peel - all of which are absolutely fantastic.

The full size Facial Glow is available from Feel Unique, and is priced at £40.

What are your current favourite face masks? 

Are you a fan of AHA treatments?

xx

Detox Masks

 Laura Mercier Deep Cleansing Clay Mask  //  Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask  //  Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask

Detox masks are an integral part of my skincare routine, and rarely a week passes by where I don't pop one on at least a couple of times to decongest my skin and keep it looking its best. If I am particularly breaking out then they are all the more essential, as the right mask can make a huge difference to active blemishes, bringing down the redness and sending them on their way a lot more quickly than if they were left to their own devices. My go-to mask in that situation is undoubtedly the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask, which provides a rapid solution for spot-prone, irritable and reactive skin. With mineral-rich Amozonian Clay to eliminate toxins while gently exfoliating and softening, oat flour and Allantoin to resolve congestion and Manuka honey, aloe and calendula for their powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial action, this little beauty packs a real punch, and has become an absolute lifesaver when my skin is in distress. I tend to use this just on my t-zone, as my cheeks are pretty clear, and leaving it on for fifteen to twenty minutes leaves things looking a lot calmer. If I have a particularly nasty-looking blemish or two then I have been known to pop this on over night, and the difference in the morning is quite remarkable, diminished in size and redness by a considerable amount.

For keeping things clear in the first place, I usually reach for the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask. This is great for maintenance, as the charcoal acts as a magnet to draw any nasty bits of debris and oil out of the pores, preventing them from forming into anything unsightly. Again, this one goes on for about fifteen minutes, and it dries to an absolutely rock-solid layer, so perhaps make sure you don't have to talk to anyone when you've got this on! A couple of downsides to this one - one, it doesn't manage to tackle the most stubborn blocked pores I have on my nose alone, but it does make extractions that bit easier (lovely - sorry!). And two, it's a bit of a pain to remove. It's almost black in colour too, so you can imagine that I've had to bin more than one or two muslin cloths since I first began using it. It's worth the effort though, as I find it a lot more effective than most other masks I've tried.

Last (and also least) is the Laura Mercier Deep Cleansing Clay Mask, which was probably one of the first face masks I ever picked up. Nowadays it's not the sort of brand I would usually turn to for skincare, and I must admit that this is not usually a mask I personally reach for, but I thought I'd share it with you because we are all different. It's basically your average clay mask, and I can't say I notice a huge difference after using it, but it's probably a good one for someone with minimal skin issues, as it will keep things clear if used regularly. It's pink too, which I know will appeal to some of you! 

I do love Laura Mercier as a brand, but I'm much more likely to be found browsing the makeup section, as there are certain ingredients I like to avoid in my skincare.

What are your go-to face masks in your skin's hour of need?

xx

Review: Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Mask

A girl can never have too many detox masks - that is, unless they don't work, and having tried out a great many myself I was beginning to get a little bit disheartened. There have been a couple that have seemed to do the job pretty well at first, but sadly they have later decreased quite considerably in effectiveness, and then there are others which just don't seem to make much of a difference at all.

Enter, the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask.

I was lucky enough to receive the Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial kit for my birthday, which consists of three 30ml travel-size masks: The Facial Detox, Facial Glow Radiance Peel and Biodynamic Facial Souffle - all of which I will be chatting to you about in due course.

As I'm sure you all know by now, I have quite problematic skin at the moment, and it's something that has been going on for the past few months, so needless to say, I was thrilled at the prospect of having another weapon against breakouts and blemishes.

The Facial Detox is a clay-based anti-bacterial mask which aims to reduce excess sebum and decongest the pores, giving the skin a really deep-down cleanse. It's recommended for oily or congested skin, and personally this only really applies to my t-zone, so I have been using it on that area alone and giving my cheeks the swerve.

Mineral rich organic Amazonian clay is responsible for helping eliminate toxins from the skin, while essential oils of eucalyptus, cedarwood, lavender and rosemary help to balance the production of sebum. Add to that some oat flour and allantoin to gently exfoliate and resolve congestion, and you are pretty much good to go. As an added bonus, this mask is also packed with Manuka honey, aloe and calendula to soothe the skin, meaning that your skin will never feel stripped or dry after use. And it doesn't stop there, with secret weapons kombuchka to visibly reduce pigmentation (something we could all do with after a nasty breakout) and anti-oxidant rich fig extract and malachite to help protect against pollution and environmental extremes. Phew, this certainly is one multi-tasking little marvel.

I apply this to my t-zone in the evenings as often as required, which at the moment is about 2-3 times a week, and leave it to dry for roughly fifteen minutes (it has a pleasant herbal scent, which I personally quite enjoy). I then remove it with a warm, damp muslin cloth or flannel, and continue on with the rest of my skincare routine. If I have a particularly angry breakout on the go then I will apply this directly onto the offending blemishes and leave it on over night, and I really do find that this works wonders in terms of reducing redness and shrinking them in size. Generally, using this mask on a regular basis really helps to keep things under control, and minimise the longevity and severity of breakouts. I definitely find that I break out more often when I get lazy and don't bother using this mask as I think my skin is ok, which is proof that it really does make a difference.

New favourite clarifying mask? I think so! I've been rationing this one out, but I am definitely going to be caving in and purchasing the full-size 75ml tube, which is available from Feel Unique for a slightly pricey £28. It's certainly not the cheapest I've tried, but then I do think it's worth paying a little bit more for something that really works than settling for a more affordable option which just...well, doesn't.

(If you fancy picking up the afore-mentioned Weekend Facial set then that one comes in at £30, and is pretty good value if you fancy dipping your toe in, as you get to try three of their products which individually are a lot more costly.)

The Facial Detox mask has fast become a secret weapon I can't live without, so whether you're suffering from annoying breakouts or just a bit of excess oil then this one is for you.

Have you tried anything from Elemental Herbology?

If so, what is your favourite product?

xx

Review: Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask

Ever since I first heard about this face mask, I knew it would be right up my street. I had been eager to try natural and organic New Zealand skincare brand Antipodes for such a long time, but due to other skincare needs, adding to my face mask collection got bumped down the list in favour of replacing cleansers (my first foray into Antipodes was with their Grapeseed Butter Cleanser - review here), serums and other daily necessities. So, when my birthday rolled around at the beginning of the month, I already knew what was top of my list, and I finally received the Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask.

Antipodes products are vegetarian approved and cruelty free, as well as containing a high level of certified organic ingredients (in order for an entire product to be certified organic it must contain 70-95% organic ingredients, so while only a selection of Antipodes products are able to bear this stamp, the others are not far off at all).

What really drew me in when it comes to the brand is the list of delicious-sounding ingredients their products boast, such as manuka honey, avocado oil and vinanza grape extract - don't they just sound good enough to eat? 

The Aura Manuka Honey Mask is no exception, with the main ingredient being, unsurprisingly, manuka honey. A traditional remedy of New Zealand Maori people, it really packs a punch, drawing moisture to the skin which in turn aids hydration, as well as having powerful anti-bacterial properties which are just what the doctor ordered when it comes to stopping blemishes in their tracks. Also packed with nutrient-rich avocado oil and ruby red pohutukawa bloom, one of nature's finest antioxidants, this multi-tasking marvel promises to cover all the bases. 

The instructions advise smoothing on a thick layer at sunset at least twice a week, although it's gentle enough to be used on a daily basis. You leave it on for fifteen minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Personally, I tend to use this 2-3 times a week, as while I do like to keep my face masks as a treat, this one is just so divine I can't seem to leave it alone, and I really look forward to taking off my makeup, cleansing and popping a layer on when I get home from work. The smell is absolutely incredible, with fragrance of vanilla pod and mandarin, and while quite thick and creamy, a light layer is all that's required to give the skin that much-needed boost. It appears transparent on the skin, and I have to say that the very first time I tried it I was absolutely amazed by its calming, relaxing properties. Antipodes do say that the scent brings peace and balance to the aura, and I couldn't agree more. There is a very slight tingle that lets me know the mask is getting to work, and I really do mean it when I say that the fifteen minutes I leave this on are fifteen minutes of pleasure. It's definitely not one of those masks that has you watching the clock until it's time to take it off, and if anything I find myself leaving it on for longer.

When I remove the mask, my skin feels silky-soft and hydrated, and this has definitely been playing a part in soothing my blemishes and keeping them a bit more under control. I tend to use it straight after the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Mask, and together they have made a world of difference to my recently un-cooperative skin. Afterwards, my skin looks glowing and healthy, and any redness has been greatly diminished.

 What can I say? This is the most delightful addition to my skincare collection in quite some time, and has shot straight to the top of my list of most-loved face-masks. It's a pleasure to use, and a great multi-tasker. Having only used a  fraction of the tube up, I'm already thinking about re-ordering, as it's quickly become one of those go-to products I don't ever want to find myself without! I absolutely love it, and every application is a real experience for the senses as well as the skin.

The Antipodes Aura Manuka Mask is available from Feel Unique at £21.50 for 75ml.

Have you tried anything from Antipodes? If so, what were your thoughts?

Are you a fan of natural skincare brands?

xx

Montagne Jeunesse Glacial Clay Spa Mask

Years back, when I was a teenager (don't I feel old!), there was little I loved more than kicking back at a sleepover with the girls, my face plastered in a deliciously fruity-smelling Montagne Jeunesse face mask and a couple of slices of cucumber on my eyes.

Fast forward a few years, and I haven't tried one of these sachets of goodness in years, so imagine my joy when I found this Glacial Clay Spa Mask in a giveaway prize parcel from the lovely Suzy.

The Glacial Clay Spa mask is a rather unbecoming cloth mask with holes for all your vital facial features (eyes, nose and mouth), and boasts the benefits of real clay, arctic cloudberry and red grape. It's quite easy to get your hands covered in clay dust when pressing this onto your face, so you will definitely need to give them a quick rinse afterwards. The mask is ready to use, and simply has to be pressed onto the skin and left to dry for ten minutes. Personally, I found this something of a challenge, as due to my weirdly small face it seemed to be a little bit on the large side. But, after some experimentation, the mask was in place and I was ready to relax.

Now, you might expect this mask to have something of a fruity aroma, what with the berries and grapes, but it doesn't - nor does it smell like your average clay mask. In actual fact, I felt as  though I had spritzed my face with men's aftershave, which to be honest is not what I really want from a facemask, but hey - I don't judge on smell alone.

Luckily, the results were worth the wait, and the mask left my skin feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. It's not a miracle mask, and I probably wouldn't go for this particular variety again, just because I think that Montagne Jeunesse do some better smelling ones, but at the same time I wouldn't say no if I found myself with another sachet.

I do like that these masks come in sachets, as it's a great way to stock up on a few different varieties and try them all out. Most of the face masks I buy nowadays (mainly from Origins and Ren at the moment) are expensive and can only be bought in full-size tubes - great if you love it, but sometimes I want a bit of variety - isn't that the spice of life?

What is your favourite face mask? Any recommendations?

xx

Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

With this being my favourite face mask, and having raved about it in both my October Favourites and Current Skincare Routine videos on Youtube, as well as my Top Ten Hero Products of 2012 video, I was sure that I'd already written a rave review on here to share this little treat with you. But when asked about this mask during the bbloggers chat on Twitter this Wednesday, I went in search of the link, only to find that I'd made a huge faux pas and not given this gem the write up it deserved.

So, in light of that, I thought it was probably time to rectify the situation and share my thoughts.

A bit of background on Origins as a brand.

Their products are formulated with cerified natural and organic ingredients, as well as 100% natural essential oils, and without parabens, phthalates, mineral oils and other nasties. They also manufacture using a combination of renewable resources, wind energy and earth-friendly practices.

If you're a regular reader then you'll know that I'm a huge fan of natural and naturally derived skincare, which is one of the reasons I love this brand as much as I do.

The Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask is a detoxing mask designed to give your pores a good, deep-down clean, removing all the dirt and debris deposited by environmental pollutants that leave the skin looking less than its best. Containing the active ingredient charcoal, which acts like a magnet to draw out  pore-cloggers, this mask also packs white clay to absorb pollutants, and lecithin, which will help to dissolve any impurities.

Having felt quite let down by many a face mask in the past, repeatedly feeling that they hadn't lived up to their claims, I was keen to give this one a go and see if it could impress.

Well, it certainly did that.

The product itself is thick in consistency, and comes in a transparent plastic tube, making it easy to squeeze out the amount you want. It is unscented, meaning it smells like most clay masks - in my opinion, not the most pleasant of aromas, but I'm glad to know that I'm putting something fairly natural on my skin as opposed to something packed full of additives.  In order to get the best results, Origins advise that you steam the skin before use, opening the pores and making them more receptive to the active ingredients. You can do this by either popping a towel over your head and standing over a bowl of boiling water, or simply by laying a hot wash cloth over your skin for a while beforehand. I must admit, I do prefer the former method, as I find that it yields far more impressive results.

Next, you pop a thick layer of the mask onto the skin, avoiding the eye area, as always. The product takes about ten minutes to dry, hardening a great deal in the process - so much so that I struggle to move my facial muscles at all with it on. Personally, I rather like that, as I feel that it's really getting to work on my skin.

To remove, soak a wash cloth in hot water and lay it over your face, allowing it to soak up the charcoal mask. This will require repeating a fair few times, but is the best way to remove the product as it will have left your skin feeling quite sensitive, meaning scrubbing it off is not advisable. I do usually use a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue in the end, before popping on some toner and moisturiser to finish.

The results of this mask are quite incredible compared to anything else I've used, leaving pores I didn't even know were blocked suddenly looking clean as a whistle. I love the look and feel of soft, smooth, purified skin it leaves me with, and it has fast become a weekly staple in my skincare routine, helping  to keep any nasty toxins at bay and avoid blemishes and breakouts. Any excess oil is absorbed, and pores appear toned

The one thing this couldn't do for me was completely clear the stubborn blocked pores on my nose, which have been lurking around since time began, but is does make them vastly easier to remove manually (sorry, I know it's not the most pleasant of thoughts!). I usually do this after removing the mask, and before toning.

In all, this is a fabulous mask, and one I will buy again and again. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to give their skin a really good detox, or who is tired of disappointing clarifying masks.

Final rating:  9/10 

xx

Ren Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask

I had wanted to try this mask for ages, but at £30 for 50ml, I wasn't happy to part with my hard-earned pennies until I was sure that it was the product for me. So, I managed to get my hands on this 15ml sample. I have used this about four times so far, suffice to say, the tube s nearly empty. You can probably get about six applications out of this, seven at a push.

Just a little foreword about Ren as a brand, before we move onto the product itself. 

All of their products are formulated WITH 100% natural active ingredients, and WITHOUT any parabens, sulfates, petro-chemicals, synthetic dyes/fragrances or phtalates. On top of this, they do not test/have their products tested on animals. With all this in mind, I was already holding Ren pretty high in my estimation, as most of you will know that I am a huge fan of organic skincare, and products which use natural or naturally derived ingredients where possible.

So, what does this product claim to do? Well, it's a potent bio active skin peel mask, designed to improve radiance by renewing the complexion, as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines and combating congestion. Fruit acids from passion fruit, grape, pineapple and lemon, as well as Papain - a bio extract from papaya - to exfoliate the outer layer of skin and encourage cell turnover, are the active ingredients in this skin treat.  Do give this one a miss if you've got extremely sensitive skin though, as Ren say that it's probably not the mask for you.

So, first impressions.

The mask is a thick, sort of lumpy consistency, orange in colour, and smells like orange marmalade, or something similar. For me, that's completely fine - it only makes me more aware of all the natural goodies the mask contains, and I love to know that I'm using things like this on my skin, rather than nasty chemicals . Plus, I love the smell of fruit.

(Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of what the mask itself looks like, and the consistency, so please forgive me for using this image from Google, below. I really wanted to show you how it looks, and what to expect.)

source

To use the mask, you basically apply a generous layer to the skin, (at which point it really does feel like you're slathering on a good coating of sticky marmalade), being sure to avoid the eyes. Leave for ten minutes, and wipe away using a muslin cloth soaked in warm water.

What struck me most about this mask is that, despite being a skin peel, this mask doesn't harden. In fact, it doesn't dry at all. In fact, this is the first skin peel mask I have used where this was the case, and so I was worried it might not do as great a job as I was hoping.

Upon wiping the mask away, I noticed that my skin looked really clean and fresh, but I was just about to go to bed and so chose to reserve judgement until the morning. The next day, my skin was absolutely glowing with health, and my makeup went on a lot smoother than normal, the radiance showing through. I can't really vouch for it's affect on fine lines, as the only ones I have are around my eyes, and obviously these were left free from the mask.

I'm not going to say that this is a miracle worker, but it does do the job. It perks up my skin, and is a pleasure to use if, like me, you like the smell of fruit! I've been using this mask once a week, and am planning on buying the full-size version once I run out.

Have you tried anything from Ren? What did you think?

xx

Nourifusion Multivitamin Clarifying Mask: Review

Just a quick review for you today.

I've been using the Nourifusion Multivitamin Clarifying Mask with vitamins A,C and E for a good couple of months now, so I thought that it was about time I shared it with you.

This is a clay-based mask, with a thick, pastey consistency. It's green in colour, and has an almost menthol, medicinal scent which I find to be really quite refreshing. 

I've been using this product as part of my weekly pampering sessions. It goes onto the face in a thick layer, and is left to dry for 15-20 minutes before being removed. I usually take it off with a muslin cloth as I find that this is more thorough and ensures that no residue is left on the face.

When I apply the mask, I do on occasion notice a gentle stinging sensation, but it has never irritated my skin and doesn't feel at all uncomfortable. For me, it's just a sign that the mask is doing it's job and is probably due to it's astringent properties.

One thing I have noticed with this mask is that if I have a spot brewing, the day after use it has come out in full force. At first, I saw this as a bad thing as I thought that the mask was upsetting the balance of my skin and causing blemishes to appear, but after a few more tries, I realised that it was just ridding my skin of the impurities that were already there. It's a shame that, as with all clay masks, you've got to suffer a day or two with a couple of spots, but in my opinion they are much better out than in - no one likes the threat of an impending spot on the brink of a special occasion.

This mask not only claims to remove impurities, but also to absorb any excess oil produced by the skin. While my face does feel lovely and clean and soft after use, I can't say that I have noticed much of a difference with regards to the oil. 

In terms of pores, I don't really have any open ones, but I do have some awful blocked pores on my nose. I say awful, but they are probably not all that noticeable to anyone else. I know they are there though, and I have struggled to rid myself of them for years now, so I was a little disappointed to find that this mask wasn't able to make much a difference there.

The mask comes in a big 125g tube, so it does last you quite a long time despite having to use a thick layer on each application. 

All in all, I'd say that this is quite a nice mask to include as part of a weekend pampering session. It feels pleasant on the skin and is enjoyable to use, but I certainly wouldn't brand it a miracle mask.

If you would like to get your hands on it then head on over to the Herbalife website now. Although you can browse through a catalog of their products on there, you can't buy them directly through the site. However, you can leave a message and a representative will contact you  pretty speedily to sort you out with your products.

If you would like any further info on this then please let me know in the comments below - I've kept this one fairly short and sweet because I've been suffering a fair bit from anxiety symptoms over the past few days, and it's making it really difficult to get anything done - or at least to give it my full concentration.  If anyone has got any recommendations on that score then please feel free to share those too.

Do you use face masks as part of your skincare routine? What's your favourite?

xx

Mini Skincare Haul: Herbalife/Nourifusion

Just a quick post to show you the new Skincare bits I've picked up this week. I will be writing full reviews of them in due course, but for now just a sneak peek for you.

I have been looking for a good new anti-aging day cream, as well as a night one. I am not exactly drawing my pension just yet, but as they say, prevention is better than cure, and I am starting to worry that I really should have started this a bit earlier! Anyway, I decided to try out the Skin Activator from Herbalife, which is a brand I have never tried skincare from before, but have read great reviews about. The Skin Activator is a daily replenishing cream, so since I got it, I have been applying it in the mornings before my makeup.

The second thing I purchased was, surprise surprise, a face mask. Most  of you will have noticed that I have been going a bit mad for facemasks recently, and I have been trying out countless homemade versions over the past few weeks. But what I really wanted was a clay mask, as my T-zone has become a little bit oily and I've suddenly started getting the odd blemish. In the end, I decided to go for the Nourifusion Multivitamin Clarifying Mask, which contains orange and eucalyptus oil and witch hazel. It claims to deep-cleanse the pores, removing impurities and excess oil, which sounded like just what I need. I have already used this mask once, but I want to try it out a few more times before I spill the beans and share my thoughts.

Have you bought any new skincare products recently?

xx

Desire of the Day #6: Laura Mercier Deep Cleansing Clay Mask

Have you noticed that I have become a little bit obsessed with facemasks lately? Well, I have. I have been going a bit mad of a weekend, throwing together DIY mixtures and slathering them onto my face, and all to no avail. I think what I really need it this Deep Cleansing Clay Mask, by Laura Mercier, as I always find clay masks to be a lovely treat when my skin is really in need of some extra care and attention. As I have mentioned, my t-zone seems to be a little bit oily at the moment, which is unusual for me, and my forehead is not happy at all, and clay masks are great for drawing out impurities. The only downside, in my experience, is that they tend to 'draw them out' onto the skin's surface, as I often end up with a couple of spots after using one, before they disappear and give way to lovely smooth, clear skin. I think this is one for a quiet weekend when I am happy to hide away at home!

Do you use a facemask? Which one is your favourite?

xx

Beauty SOS! (August)

- Just a random Instagram of me from last week - I feel like I haven't shown my face on here for a while and I think it's sometimes nice to put a face to the name behind the blog! - 

Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the Olympics! I know I am, which is saying a lot considering my lack of enthusiasm in the lead up to the games. I think it had just been so long since the last one that I had forgotten about the adrenaline of it all, and it's actually proved to be a source of much 'friendly banter' between the hubby and I, who, if you didn't know, is Brazilian. When I say friendly banter, I mean we have been winding each other up something rotten. I got a bit too big for my boots and came over all smug during the GB/Brazil basketball game on Tuesday as it genuinely seemed like we were going to win, and he is always going on about how much better Brazil are at all sports than we are. Imagine my surprise, then, when Brazil made a comeback and managed to pip us to the post in the last quarter. Cue much word-eating for me. However, this was soon rectified when our women's football team panned theirs, although hubby naturally had to put a dampener on it by saying that it 'didn't count because no one cares about women's football', or something equally helpful. Just to clarify though, he is not a horrible person - he just knows exactly what to say to get a reaction out of me, and I always fall for it! Haha.

ANYWAY.

Today is the second instalment of 'Beauty SOS'. If you missed last month's then it's basically a series of posts I am running, where at the beginning of each month, I ask you lovely people for a spot of advice on whatever is troubling me beauty-wise that month., in that I ask for your recommendations of products and tips. I will then share the solutions and tips I have been helpfully given (or have since discovered myself) the following month so that we can all feel smug that we know the answer. For more info, feel free to pop over and have a look at the first Beauty SOS post here.

So, a quick recap of last month's 'issues'. I asked for your wisdom on:

1. Dark circles under the eyes

The lovely Alex over at The Wallflower suggested I try ginseng, although she didn't specify how to use it. Well, I have been taking a multi-vitamin with Panax and Ginseng, and using eye cream religiously, morning and evening, and I have noticed some small improvements. I'm still on the lookout for something else to help with this problem though, so do let me know if you've got any secrets!

2. A good matte bronzer

Lots of you recommended Benefit Hoola and Bourjois Delice de Poudre, so I decided to get myself a Hoola sample in order to try before I buy. Surpisingly, I didn't find this powder to be particularly flattering on my skin tone, which is odd given what a cult product it has become. Weirder still is that Dallas, an unusual sort of plummy-brown shade of powder (also Benefit) which I had previously seen and said I would never buy, has turned out to be a huge winner for me! As I mentioned in my July Favourites post, it's perfect for contouring and looks great alongside the Coralista blush. Some other suggestions were Bare Minerals the Warmth, Bobbi Brown and Nars Laguna, which has LONG been on my wishlist. I WILL get it, eventually!

3. Neutral matte eyeshadows

I have received suggestions of Too Faced Matte Colours Collection and Stila Into the Light for this one, but due to the expensive car troubles I've had this month (which I've already mentioned a million times!) eyeshadows haven't really been my priority when it comes to money. Both have been popped on my shopping list though, so again, I will let you know when I have had a chance to check them out, along with Natural Collection eyeshadows and the MUA Heaven and Earth palette.

4. Blocked pores on my nose.

Alice, one of my lovely readers, suggested that I try Montagne Jeunesse Charcoal Pore Strips, but unfortunately I haven't been able to find them anywhere near me. Alex recommended that I try a homemade baking soda and orange juice scrub, which I had completely forgotten about until now, so I will endeavour to try that out and let you know my thoughts. What I have been doing at home though, is  paying more attention to the area when exfoliating, and use my Caudalie Beauty Elixir after cleansing, and this does seem to have helped a bit. Benefit's The Porefessional also goes onto the area before my foundation, and while it doesn't solve the root of the problem, it does help with the appearance.

Please do head over to the first Beauty SOS post (linked above) and have a read through all the helpful comments my wonderful readers have left. If you are troubled with any of the above then you may well find yourself a solution, although I have tried to summarise all that was mentioned here.

So, onto this month's beauty emergencies!

1. A good clay face mask.

I've noticed that my T-zone has started to become a little oily of late, particularly my forehead, and I seem to have been getting a few more blemishes too :( So I would like a good clay-based face mask that is worth the money it costs.

2. A moisturising face mask.

I'm after a really luxurious one that doesn't cost the earth and will really quench my skin's thirst.

3. Something to banish dry lips once and for all!

Self explanatory really. If you know of any innovative new products then please do let me know in the comments below.

4. An amazing deep conditionng hair mask.

One that truly does the job and doesn't just 'coat' the hair to create the illusion.

That's it for this month, please share your wisdom if you feel that you have some on any of these topics, and if there is anything I could help you with in return then please feel free to ask!

Our car is finally, FINALLY fixed, so we are going on a little impromptu day out today, although we are not sure where yet. It's lovely and sunny, so I'll be sure to take lots of photos to share with you later.
Glad to see that we have won a couple of gold Olympic medals since I first wrote this post! Let's hope there are more to come today.

Hope you're having a lovely day!

xx