Neom / Contentment Organic Treatment Candle

 

I love to burn candles all year round, I love the look of a burning candle, I love the scent filling the room and how it makes me feel. Neom Organic Home Candles are without a doubt the best I've ever tried. The organic wax means no horrible black soot is left and no harmful toxins are inhaled. The melted wax looks so pretty especially when you see the wicks swaying gently. The Neom candles are treatment candles, so whilst they look and smell nice they actually work in another way. A powerful holistic treatment, when burnt the fragrance is released into the air for you to breathe in and enjoy.

 

The newest fragrance to join the Neom family is Contentment  the main trio of ingredients which make up the fragrance is Buchu, Nutmeg and Ginger. A strange trio you may think but it works. The Buchu is very similar to Blackcurrant and works great with the Nutmeg and Ginger. It's unlike any scent or smell I have smelt before but in a good way. I did find the scent grow on me and now I can't get enough of it and burn it daily just so I can get my dose of contentment. A great Springtime fragrance to fill your home with. 

Neom describe Contentment as-

A moment of contentment, of something that feels familiar and reassuring. A comforting scent to surround yourself with if you're feeling tired, overworked or just overawed. A scent that makes you feel you're home.

If you're looking for a Mother's Day gift or a little Springtime treat for yourself, I would recommend THIS!

Sherrie xo

NEW Flutter & Drum Beauty / Fashion website!

 

A new website called Flutter & Drum launched recently and I wanted to give it a big shout out because I think it deserves the recognition. A great one-stop website where you can see the latest beauty and fashion trends displayed in a great easy to follow and read layout. Some beauty and fashion websites can be a little overwhelming but Flutter & Drum has a really relaxed but fun feel about it.

They have a fabulous hamper to giveaway and it ends in a couple days so please be sure to pop over and enter, when you see the gorgeous goodies you'll be crossing everything! 

You can also follow Flutter & Drum on twitter and keep updated with all the latest celebrity gossip and new wonder products to hit the beauty isles- @Flutteranddrum.

Sherrie xo

Bedtime Treats...

 

I don't know about you but I sleep so much better knowing I have given myself a little treat, I wanted to share with you some products which I use to help me unwind and relax. I have a pre-bedtime routine  which inloves a handful of products. But at least once a week I have what I call a Home Spa Pamper. This involves candles, a relaxing bath and lovely relaxing body products.

I start my pre-bedtime routine with a relaxing bath, I've been trying the Soothing Bath Oil by ESPA. This is the perfect pre-bedtime product to use especially if you have difficulty unwinding and settling before bedtime. The soothing aromatic blend of sandalwood, rose, geranium and frankincense help you to unwind and relax. Great for days when you've been busy or felt a little stressed. Myrrh helps soothe the mind while sweet almond nourishes the skin. Once you've enjoyed a bath using this you won't want to use anything else! I like to add 2-3 capfuls to running hot water, light a candle and close the door and let all the beautiful aromas fill the room. 

My favourite candles are without a doubt Neom, they are high quality organic candles which you can trust. They fill the room with their beautiful scents helping you to change your mood when you need it. Whether you need to fill invigorated or relaxed these candles are truly amazing! When I'm trying to relax I always call upon the Tranquillity scent. This is the travel size, it still burns for 20 hrs! I save this one especially for my pre-betime rituals.

 

I love using the Weleda Creamy Body Washes, they are the best creamy body washes I've ever tried. Great for a treat and perfect for dry skin, I like to use the Lavender one. This is a travel size but the full size product is a purse friendly £7.95. Again I like to save this and use this for my pamper session. 

The newest product to join my ritual is the Organic Surge Million Dollar Brown Sugar Scrub, when you see this you just want to scoop it up and eat it! Of course I wouldn't recommend that, you'll soon be heading for the sink and a glass of water. It looks and smells divine, this is the perfect combination to use with the bath oil. The organic brown sugar crystals work effectively yet gently to remove dead skin cells and help to improve the skins appearance inside and out.The natural organic oils lock in moisture, freshly scented with sweet orange and bergamot. This is definitely a scrub to add to your wish lists this year if you want to treat yourself!

After relaxing and finally dragging myself out of the tub, I rely on a few nice moisturising goodies to lull me into a sleep! Bodhi Jasmine Falls Relaxing Body Moisturiser fits in nicely, the relaxing aroma of Jasmine and Lavender helps to calm and de-stress the mind. It's not just a relaxing scented product, it's actually very moisturising thanks to the organic shea butter, kukui nut and coconut oil. Another one to add to your lists.

For the hands I've been using the REN Hand & Body Cream, a great all rounder. I like the scent and the formulation. I would definitely repurchase the full size of this. Elemis treat your feet Foot Cream is rich in formulation and adds to the whole bed-time ritual. It's nice to treat yourself from your head down to your toes! Infused with a blend of aromatic patchouli, eucalyptus and lemon oils help to soothe and comfort.

The last product in my pre-bedtime ritual is the Badger Sleep Balm, I rub a little of this just before I turn off the light. I like to rub a little on my temples and wrists. 

And after writing up this post, I actually feel well and truly relaxed!

Sherrie xo

Dr.Brandt / Pores No More Poresolution Review

A new product which has been put to the test is the Poresolution by Dr.Brandt. I've heard of Dr.Brandt but never tried the brand before, I always find it exciting when you try a new brand.  I have combination skin with a typically oily t-zone, but with dry area on the face. I must admit I am lazy with toners, I think it's because I've not found the right one. I do enjoy using facial mists, I find them very cooling and refreshing and great for the hotter months. But there's something about the Pores No More Clarifying Lotion*, it's helped to balance my skin. It doesn't make the drier areas of my face drier but it helps to control the oil in the areas it needs it most. 

It very gently clarifies the skin, exfoliating it and cleaning at the same time. Have combination skin can mean it can look a little sluggish at times, it's trying to find the perfect balance for the oily areas and dry areas. It contains Tea Tree oil which is renown for it's natural antibacterial properties, the other added ingredient which is becoming a favourite of mine is Salicylic acid. The Salicylic acid rids the skin of dead skin cells and works to refine pores.

I use this every evening and some mornings, it depends on how my skin feels in the morning. If you have oily/combination skin and suffer from breakouts you need this in your routine! I've already noticed my pores shrinking and looking less visible, some days I don't need to use a pore primer prior to my base routine. The only factor which may put people off is the price, it's 140ml and will set you back a whooping £30.00! If you're a big skincare fanatic and you're struggling to find something to help with you pores and oily skin this may well be worth every penny.

You can purchase Dr.Brandt online from LookFantastic

Free Worldwide Delivery!!

Sherrie xo

Hands down...

My hands have been well and truly pampered, the colder weather is seriously taking it's toll on them. Luckily for them I am equipped with all kinds of lotions and potions. I have been using the balance Me Super Moisturising Hand Cream* for a little while now and love having a tube of this in my bag but also another by my bedside. It smells divine and doesn't leave hands feeling greasy, the mix of essential oils makes the hand cream feel very luxurious. The formulation is very soothing and hydrating, so if you suffer from sore dry hands this would be a great hand cream to try.

The next product is a balm and best used at night time, the Badger Balm For Hardworking Hands* is a thick balm which you need to scoop out and melt in your hands. It can feel a little greasy at first depending on how dry your hands are. It's great for soothing chapped red hands, I would say this would be the last thing you do before heading to the pillow! The scent is very subtle, it reminds me of the antiseptic cream Germolene. It's a nice soothing scent and not off putting at all, a great product to carry around with you thanks to the packaging.

For days when I want to paint my nails I've been reaching for Malava, they have a great selection of polishes. I use their Double-Protective Base*, it dries very quickly and prolongs any the life of the coloured nail polish. After I've applied the colour I then reach for Colorfix*, this seriously makes the coloured polish look so glossy. It's a great top coat and paired with the 002 Protective base they make a great pair for helping your manicure last longer. If I'm pushed for time I use the Mavadry*, this helps nails dry in seconds and again gives a healthy glossy finish to the nails. You can also apply another layer of this a few days later to brighten up your manicure. I highly recommend this tough trio.

My latest discovery is the Superdrugs own Conditioning Cuticle Oil Pen with Vitamin E. I found out about this little gem after reading The Sunday Girl blog. As soon as I read Vogue was singing its praises and it cost a purse friendly sum of £2.99 then I knew I had to invest...soon! I've had it just over a week and already my cuticles look healthier. I've not noticed my nails getting any stronger but it's only been a short time so I shall update you at a later date.

I've been using Orly for a couple years now and their treatment polishes are fab, they have a great selection to suit different problems. I've never had super strong nails, they often peel and get dry. Nailtrition* targets that problem by strengthening and stimulating nail growth faster. This is a great treatment to use if you're nails don't grow or if you've had acrylic nails on. It's a lovely subtle pink with a very slight shimmer in. You can wear this alone or use as a base coat under your polish.
Calcium Shield delivers just that...Calcium. Just what nails need which don't grow or are in bad condition. Perfect for thin weak nails, Nail Defense* acts as a thick protective layer to prevent from any future damage. Can be used a lone as a base coat under your polish or if worn alone 2 coats can be applied. This is a weekly treatment.
Nail Defense* is another great treatment to prevent nails from splitting or peeling, you apply a coat every other day. Can be used a base and top coat, it's rich protein and gelatin to help fortify nails and make them stronger.

So with all these lotions and potions I am hoping for stronger nails this year so I can enjoy wearing some lovely spring/summery shades!

Sherrie xo

Mac Downsizing / 4 pan Vs 15 pan

 

I finally made the decision to pick up the Mac Pro Palette Eye Shadow Quad, after reading Vivianna Does Makeup. I have the 15 pan palette and to be honest it was bought with the pretence that I would fill it but I only got to fill 9 spaces. Whilst the 15 pan palette is slim line it's still a generous size, I actually found I wasn't reaching for it and found it a chore to have to sieve through my drawer to find it. Where as now I know the shadows will get used, thanks to their new minimalistic home.

 

So after some careful consideration I picked my worthy four shades and slotted them in with ease and pleasure! I love how you can see the shades through the clear lid, something you can't from the old 15 pan palette. I'm no makeup artist so I'm not sure what made me buy it in the first place, but all I know is I'm a happy bunny with my quad.

I went for a neutrals palette, easy to wear and great to carry in your makeup bag. This is the kind of palette I would take on holiday with me. It has the perfect balance of satin and shimmery shades.

Retrospeck is a lustre finish and described as a beached blonde, I would say it's a soft gold with silver flecks. A very pretty highlighter or corner shadow.
Naked Lunch is a frost and described as a minimal pink with shimmer, I would agree 100%. It's a lovely soft pink champagne with a subtle shimmer. A great all lover lid colour.
All That Glitters is a veluxe pearl and described as a beige with gold pearl, again I would agree it's a beige with warm tones to it.
Tempting is a lustre finish and described as a sinfully rich coco, it's one of those shades which transforms a natural look to a smokey look. I picked this one exactly for that reason, it blends easily and works well with the other shades in the palette.

 

I used Naked Lunch over the lid & Tempting blended into the outer v & along lower lashes. Then Retrospeck on brow bone.

My next investment will be the duo palette, I want to use it as a brow palette. I have one matte brown shadow which I use as a brow filler but I would like to pick up another matt brown. So if you use a MAC shadow to shade your brows please let me know.

Sherrie xo

Face Facts #2

I've been experimenting with different looks lately and rediscovering old favourites, I've recently swapped my 15-pro palette for a new shiny new 4-pan pro palette and it's made such a difference, blog post to follow shortly! 

For my base I've been using the Dr.Jart+ BB Cream Water Fuse*, this helps control oiliness but also gives the skin a nice healthy dewy look. Something I struggle with when my skin is playing up. I use my trusty Real Techniques Buffing Brush, I bought a few brushes when Boots had their 3 for 2 offer on. For concealer I'm currently trailing the Pur Minerals Disappearing Act 4-in-1 Concealer, this is the shade Light. It's very pigmented and blends very nicely, I need to give it some more time before I can share my thoughts. I did feel I needed a little more coverage on the dark circles so I opted for the trusty Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging concealer. It's the perfect coverage, colour and formulation.

For the cheeks I used Pur Minerals Blush* for a pop of colour, on first impressions I am very impressed. very good pigmentation and buildable depending on how bright you want it. I did find though you need a very light hand when applying this blush, I literally tapped my Mac169 brush a couple times and dabbed the back of my hand before applying right on the cheeks. After I could gage the colour I then went in again and built the colour up.

 

For the eyes I decide on Macs Naked Lunch over the lid and Retrospeck on the brow bone, both these shades compliment one another and blend together well. For some added depth I used Tempting with a very light hand. This really changed the look, I find Tempting works very well with Naked Lunch. I did run a little Tempting along the lower lash line to finish the look. 

 For the lashes I used Lancome Hypnose Star Mascara, I bought this just after Christmas from John Lewis in the sale. It came in a little gift set with a mini black khol and a handy travel size Bi-Facil. The brush is great, a dual sided brush to help create show stopping eyes. I use the flat part of the brush first against the roots of the upper lashes. I use a very technical 'wiggling' method, this helps add product to the roots but also to separate the lashes. Then I turn the brush on its side and coat the lashes with a nice generous layer of mascara.

On the lips I used Mac a Faerie Glen which is a lustre finish, I find this shade the perfect nude for myself. It doesn't wash out the face and looks very flattering.

Sherriexo

Pucker Up...

Firstly Happy Valentines Day! Following on from my previous lip post I wanted to blog about my new lip routine. Winter really affects my poor skin and my lips, I use lip balm several times through the day, if I don't my lips tend to dry up and crack and then bleed. When I don't look after them I can't wear lipstick because there's nothing worse than dry cracked lips with layers of lipstick over the top. It doesn't cover them up but instead I think it makes them look worse.
Thankfully my lips have been in really good condition this winter and I've been able to enjoy wearing lipstick. Even with winter nearly over I still think it's a great time to treat and care for your lips, especially seeings bold lips are bang on trend this Spring/Summer.

If you have dry lips you may have heard of the little toothbrush trick, using a clean toothbrush gently buff them. This helps exfoliate them and get rid of any flakiness but also helps the lip balm to absorb better and work quicker.

However I have been testing a lip scrub, I've heard of lip scrubs but never used one until now. Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub*, warning this smells good enough to eat! I've used this daily since I've had it and whilst I thought my lips were in a good condition they're even better now. Just by using a small amount and buffing the scrub gently over my lips has made such a difference, they feel super soft and smooth. You notice a difference after the very first time using it, when I applied my lip balm I then noticed how smooth they actually were. Coconut and Jojoba Oils help moisturise the lips and the mix of sea salt and polenta work to buff the lips. The texture and formulation is gentle and not harsh like it may sound.
I've been following with my favourite balm at the moment which is by the Greek brand Apivita, exclusive to M&S. They have a great range of lip balms, this is their Chamomile* one. It is packed full of hydrating ingredients and to top it off contains a SPF15. One to have in your bag at all times.

Lush have released their Valentines Day collection and one of them is The Kiss Lip Gloss* disguised as a lip balm. A luscious kissable strawberry milk gloss which is very subtle but looks gorgeous on the lips. I love the sweet quirky packaging. A first from Lush to make a Vegan Lip Gloss which is free from preservatives.

Kiss Kiss xoxox

Pop Lips...

♥Happy Valentines Day♥

Bright bold lips are trending this Spring/Summer, I can't wait till then so I've been sporting a pop of colour on my lips this past week. It's surprising how much a lip colour can really change your look and mood. Having a nice pop on colour on the lips makes me feel happy and confident, plus it means I can normally get away with minimal eye makeup making the focus purely on the lips.
The three bold lips which I've been sporting recently are : Maxfactor Colour Elixir in the shade Bewitching Coral, Shiseido perfect Rouge in the shade PK417 and lastly the newest lip colour on the block is the new Rimmel London Apocalips in the shade Stellar.

 

Maxfactor Colour Elixir Lipsticks are so creamy and moisturising, they don't dry out the lips like so many lipsticks.  It's very similar to Mac Cremesheen formulation wise, it leaves the lips with a very pretty sheen. The shade is stunning, a lovely bright coral which gives the lips a nice pop! I especially like wearing this shade for a night out, it's also a great Summer shade.

This is the only lipstick I've tried from Shiseido, after my love for this I would be interested to try some other bright shades. It's a shame they don't have names the shades but instead they are coded. It's a beautiful warm pink with golden shimmer running through it, the shimmer is visible in the sunlight but not over the top. This is the perfect shade for days when you want a subtle pop of colour on the lips. A very wearable daytime shade, reminiscent of the Spring. The formulation is creamy and applies easily.

I jumped on the Apocalips band waggon and headed straight for Stellar, this is probably the punchiest out of the trio featured. A true POP of colour on the lips, I adore everything about it. I like the packaging, the scent, the applicator and the shade! I can't wait to get more shades. The formulation is very pigmented and easy to apply. it may look like a lip gloss but it's an in between, it doesn't have a sticky finish to it as you can see from the photo above. It's basically a liquid lipstick which has a nice sheen to it. Stellar is a vibrant coral red which brightens your complexion instantly, making you look fresher and healthier. I think out of all the shades this is the one to look out for!


Have you been sporting Pop Lips? 

Sherrie xo

Alpha-H / 4 Piece Radiance Skin Essentials...

 

I have heard nothing but praise for the brand Alpha-H, so when I had the chance to try the brand for myself I couldn't wait. I've been putting the 4-Piece Radiance Skin Essentials* to the test and I've noticed such a difference in my skin already. I have had to be strict with my skincare routine and make sure I stick to it. That's because of the AHAs, I'm sure you've all heard of AHAs before but in case you haven't I shall fill you in. Glyloic Acid- an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) mixed with a blend of botanical ingredients, work together to even, brighten, smooth and firm skin.

I love trying new skincare products and seeing the benefits, I'm so glad I've been able try their best-selling Liquid Gold lotion. This is the first product which jumps in my head when I hear Alpha-H mentioned. I noticed a difference the first time I tried Liquid Gold, my skin looked clearer, smooth and even. Think 'overnight facial in a bottle' and you'll soon get it. For best results it's recommended you apply Liquid Gold with a cotton pad all over the face as you would a toner and then leave it overnight. Don't apply any moisturisers or other treatments. I use this 2-3 times a week, as suggested by Alpha-H. It's also very important you remember to apply a sunscreen when you're using any products which contain AHAs in your skincare routine. This is because you're skin is more sensitive to the sun and can easily be damaged. Luckily a lot of moisturisers/BB Creams/foundation contain sunscreens. So just check you're using a sunscreen, I would recommend a SPF15 and over.

For cleansing I've been trailing the Balancing Cleanser with Aloe Vera, I use this morning and evening. You can use this to remove stubborn waterproof mascara but I've not tried it yet on the eyes. I like to use a Micellar water to remove my eye makeup. My skin feels clean, fresh and not at all tight. On days when I'm using the Liquid Gold I will follow with that and end my routine with the Absolute Eye Complex. The days when I'm not using the Liquid Gold I use my toner and then follow with the Age Delay Intensive Night Treatment. I can't believe the difference I've seen in such a short space of time. The mix combination of products all work unison making them the perfect additions to any ones routine. My skin feels plump, hydrated and looks so much more clearer. I'm putting that down to the Liquid Gold. The Absolute Eye Complex is a gel formulation, great for soothing tired eyes. It can be used all over the lid as a primer and is great for applying over makeup during the day to give you a wake up call!

You can purchase the Alpha-H 4 Piece Radiance Skin Essentials set online from QVC Beauty. This set is a great way of trying the brand.

Have you tried Alpha-H?

Sherrie xo

Hairy Staples...

 

OK the title of this post is a peculiar one, I mean imagine if you could actually buy hairy staples for your stapler? OK moving on...rather quickly! I wanted to blog about my haircare staples, some have only just made it into this post but nonetheless they are still worthy and very much loved despite only being in my life a short time.

As some of you may already know I had a fringe cut in last week and it's been a week all about hair. My god did I take not having a fringe for granted, I mean how do people manage going out in the British weather with a fringe? I mean that's an incentive in itself NOT to get one cut. You have to face the wind and rain on a daily basis, luckily for me I am use to the weather but not a fringe it would seem. Luckily for my fringe and my ego I have a good supply of hair products to help me fight the great outdoors!

OK first thing is first I just want to say that Batiste has been my right hand man this past week, I have reached for this daily and it's been a total life saver for me! I have been using Batiste for a couple years now and whilst I'm not a fan of every can I am a fan of New Graffiti exclusive to Boots, the can alone is winner. The other batiste dry shampoo is Paisley and this is exclusive to Superdrug, to be honest they're both as good as one another. So it comes down to the scent and look of the can, Paisley is fruity & floral whereas graffiti is more fruity & woody. I love the big sized cans, they last an age and the small purse sized cans are fab to have stashed away in your handbag.

As for tools I have been relying heavily on my ghds I have the red plated limited edition Katy Perry Scarlet straighteners. I've used them daily since my new do, they heat up very quickly and do the job in a matter on minutes. Great for busy mummies, plus the travel ghd hairdryer is also a staple. It may be small but boy does it pack a punch. I have a lot of hair which takes an age to dry but with the help of the travel hairdryer my hair dries in no time.

My hair isn't use to having heated tools on it daily so I've had to make sure I treat it well and replace any moisture. I don't want it to get dry or damaged, I've been testing It's a 10 Miracle Hair Mask. I have tried a couple products from the It's a 10 range and loved them both especially the Leave-In Treatment. I recently mentioned this in my Weekend Wonders #1 post. The Miracle hair Mask smells good enough to eat, you just want to scoop up the product and lick it. I wouldn't suggest this though, It's probably better suited to your hair. It helps detangle hair, restores moisture and much more.

The newest hair staple which is a must for me now is the Tangle Teezer. It's one of those products which once you've tried it you wonder how on earth you coped without it? A must for long locks. very easy to hold and control, I opted for the Bubblegum Pink colour. It was a no brainer really. I find separating my hair into two sections makes the task a lot easier. I tend to brush through my ends first to rid them of any nasty knots and then gently work may way up the hair brush out the tangles gently. Ending with a nice brush through the whole of my hair.

Before the Tangle Teezer came into my life I was using the Tangle-Tamer by Denman, I still use this and still rate it. I also use this on my little girls hair on her tangles and it helps but having said that I think the Tangle Teezer works better on her hair. I will continue to use them both and will keep you updated with my findings!

The last two products I want to mention is the Moroccanoil Styling Cream and Treatment Oil, both of these work well together but the one I want to give a big shout out is the Styling Cream. It leaves my hair looking healthy, glossy and healthy. It has the Moroccanoil scent which smells so good, I'm sure you'll all agree if you've smelt the range. I use 1-2 pumps of the styling cream when my hair is almost dry. I rub my palms together to help distribute the product evenly on both hands and then work the product into the ends and through the mid-end sections. I let the product work it's magic for 5 mins and then usually leave my hair to naturally dry or if I need to pop out I will then finish styling my hair either with the irons or the hair dryer.


So there's my hairy staples! Hope you enjoyed it!

Sherrie xo

Weekend Wonders #2

Well can you Adam and Eve it? It's that time again, for me to share my Weekend Wonders with you. The weeks are flying by and Spring will soon be here, YAY!

I've gone a little skincare mad and dug out my Clarisonic Mia, I'm giving it another whizz. I'm sure you all don't need to be bored to death about it. It's a one-button sonic cleansing brush...a giant electric tooth brush basically! I like to use a cleanser which foams/lathers up well, I find it works better that way. I have tested the Liz Earle C&P with it and some days it seems to work and other days not so much. I would love to know if you have a Clarisonic and what you're favourite cleanser is when using it??
The next product which I've been using and loving is the fabulous Bioderma Micelluar Water, this is part of the sensitive range- Sensibio. In case you've just surfaced from hibernation Bioderma will be launching in the UK very soon, hopefully Spring time! WHOOP WHOOP! I am so excited, I'm really keen to try this in the green range, combination/oily skin type.

OK so as you can probably tell I've gone a bit skincare mad this week/end, I have been trying Alpha-H for the very first time. It's been very exciting especially after reading and hearing so many positive things about the brand and their products. I will be blogging about the products in a separate blog post very soon so I won't go into much detail here. All I will say is FAB...the four products I've been trying is the Balancing Cleanser, Liquid Gold, Age Delay Night Cream and the Absolute Eye Complex* and they've all been a pleasure to use.

Whilst we're still in the skincare zone the last Weekend Wonder to be recognised is the Clinique Turnaround Overnight  Moisturiser*, I will be reviewing this so keep a look out! I use this alernate evenings from the Alpha-H range and both combinations are working wonders! See what I did there? *wink wink*

 

The other products which have been working wonders is the Milk_Shake Conditioning Whipped Cream*, this has become a staple for me since having a fringe cut in. It smells yummy and you only need a small amount, I use a little bit just for my fringe before blow drying. It's actually a leave-in conditioner which is in the form of a foam. Once hair is almost dry I use an oil, I don't have a firm favourite at the moment but the one which has been used recently is the popular Moroccan Oil. The scent is amazing and it's like pouring liquid gold onto your hair. You need a very small amount.

When I've been settling down to bedtime I've been relying on the Badger Sleep Balm* to help me settle and relax. The mix of rosemary, bergamot, ginger, balsam fir and lavender help you relax and clear your mind ready for you to fall asleep naturally.

What wonders have you been enjoying this week/end?

Sherrie xo

Payday Treats...

 

A quick post to show what I picked up this payday. I literally have a list as long as my arm but I'm trying to be realistic and think Do I really need that?? Some times I'm good and say no and other times I just can't help myself.

I headed to Boots first because I needed more cotton wool supplies, I picked up the same ones as last time Double Face Oval Pads. These were featured in my last empties post, they're reasonably priced and a great size. They're perfect for removing eye makeup, 1 pad is enough for both my eyes. They had these on offer so I snapped up 2 packs. 

After being on my 2012 wish list I finally picked up The Original Tangle Teezer, I opted for the neon pink. I picked this up with the mind set I can use this on my little girl as well. I will pop up a review shortly!

After Boots I headed straight for the Mac counter in my local House Of Fraser and picked up the Pro Palette 4-pan compact. I was pleasantly surprised it was a very purse friendly £6.50! I have seen the quad featured on a few beauty blogs and knew I needed it...yes I really did NEED it! All will be revealed in a post later on...

The last stop was Superdrug, I wanted to pick up their own Cuticle Oil. I read a rave review over on the Sunday Girl blog and thought for £2.99 it's worth a try! Vogue mentioned the Cuticle Oil Pen stating 'The Strongest nails we've ever had- by a long way'. Well that says it all really doesn't it? I mean after reading that and reading the price tag was only a mere £2.99 I was sold.

After frantically searching for the £2.99 miracle pen I set off in search of the new Rimmel London Apocalips. I only picked up one to begin with but believe me I WILL be heading back and picking up Celestial and maybe another shade. I wanted the shade Stellar, a stunning vibrant red/orange shade.

What did you pick up this payday?

Sherrie xo

Face Facts #1

 

Here's the first of another series which I'm excited about. I often see and read Daily Makeup posts and thought as I enjoy these posts I would post something similar. With Spring creeping around the corner I had to add the beautiful daffodils in this post. The sun is slowly but surely peeking out more and more each day and when it does boy does it make a difference to my mood! I've even swapped my lipsticks around and opted for more spring shades with a bright shade here and there.

 

 

Following on from my recent review of the PUR Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Powder I've been reaching for this daily, so it had to be featured here. If I'm looking for super coverage I use this over the top of my liquid foundation. I did try the PUR Minerals Chisel flat top brush but didn't favour it much, so I dug out my trusty bdellium Tools Flat Top Kabuki brush instead. And I'm happy to report this works perfectly. On my cheeks I have MAC Stereo Rose msf, a beautiful warm coral shade with gold veining. Works great as a blush and a highlight, but does need a little tlc when applying it. I tend to apply it with my Mac169 and then use a big fluffy face brush over the top to buff the shade in. 

On the eyes I'm wearing No7 single eyeshadow in Truffle, this is a gorgeous rich brown shade with a satin finish. The shade really compliments green eyes and I imagine it would look stunning on blue eyes. This is a one-lid shadow which buffs easily into the socket for a softer effect. I normally pop a little under the lower lashes.

Lastly for the lips I popped on some Glam Balm LIP by Rodial, it smells divine and you literally need a dab of this. I wait a minute or two for my lips to drink up the balm and then apply my lipstick which happens to be one of the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Lip balms. I was drawn to the shade- Darling. This shade reminds me of spring, I couldn't help myself what with the beautiful daffodils.

 

I recently got a chunky blunt fringe cut in and am slowly learning the ways of a fringe. Blimey is it high maintence and I can not stop touching it!!! Thank god for dry shampoo...ha ha!

  

Wishing you all a happy Thursday! 

Sherrie xo

Winter Skin Saviours...

Despite Winter being nearly over it's still very much evident in the weather, the sun has popped out a few times to say hello but the cold wind is still here to stay for a little while longer I suspect. Having said that my skin has been in need of some extra M.L.C 'Moisture Loving Care'.

For my face I've reached for the Trusted Clarins Santal Facial Oil, I normally use this in the evenings during the week but like to splash out and use it during the day at the weekends. It's 100% pure plant extracts  Essential oils, Sandalwood, Cardamon and lavender work together to soothe, tone, comfort and help decongest skin which is dry and irritated- like mine is. The packaging is perfect, no wasting of product thanks to the pipette applicator. I normally apply 2 drops on the forehead and one each on the cheeks. With the added help of Hazelnut Oil to soften and reduce redness whilst keeping dryness and fine lines at bay. This is definitely one of those treatments everyone should have in their skincare routine.

The other skin saviour for the face is the Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief gel-Creme. I've used this as a primer and also as an extra layer of moisture, sometimes after following my normal skincare routine my skin still needs something more. I find this helps, the gel-creme formulation makes it light and not heavy on the skin. Think of it as adding an extra layer of clothing.

One of the newest skin saviours to join the pack is the L'Occitane 25% Shea Butter Ultra Rich Face Cream. Voted the best moisturiser dry skin- ELLE Beauty Awards 2012. This is hardcore hydration right there. 25% Pure Shea Butter, no surprisingly the texture is thick and very dreamy. This is perfect for anyone who suffers from dry-very dry skin, intensively nourishing and helps protect skin from dryness and environmental climate changes. As the texture is super thick and more like a creamy balm, you only need a small amount. It's best to apply a little on the finger tips and warm between hands to soften and melt the product and then pat/apply to the face. My skin can get a little oily/combination but I find that using this just on the cheeks is still ok. However at the moment my skin is dry and lapping up this dreamy cream!

The last two skin saviours are both multi-use products, these are both great for those dry areas on your body from head to toe. Dr.Lipp has been my go-to lip product, otherwise known as a nipple cream. This heavy duty salve delivers instant relief to sore dry lips and leaves a protective barrier helping them to heal. This is also great for dry knees, elbows and ankles. A little goes a long way, I save mine just for my lips because it's so good.

The second newest product to join the pack is the newest product recently released by Organic Surge. The Million Dollar Anywhere Balm can be massaged all over the body including hands, heels, elbows, lips, nails and cuticles. The balm softens and calms stressed skin caused by dryness, certified by ECO CERT. The list of magically ingredients is great- cocoa & shea butter, safflower oil, sweet almond & lime essential oils. The Million Dollar Anywhere Balm is perfect for delivering a surge of moisture where you need it and fast. The balm needs a little softening to melt the oils, I've been using this lots lately.  plus with every sale organic Surge are doing their bit, you can read more about the organic Surge Million Dollar Pledge here.

What are your Winter Skin Saviours? 

Sherrie x