Monday 26 December 2011

My 2011 Favourites

I can't believe it's two weeks since I've blogged.
For shame.
Well, at least I'm back and ready to bother you with my favourite beauty finds of 2011...
I want to clarify, these aren't necessarily 2011 launches because quite frankly, I'm not nearly as up on launches as I used to be and I don't read all the press releases I should (more shame) but they are things I found and loved over the last twelve months. I'm posting the list now, before I forget but I'll update each item on the list with a little bit about why I love them when a) I've got more than a minute to do it b) I'm not writing a book and c) I'm not watching Boxing Day Match of the Day.

Benfit Cha Cha Tint - gorgeous coral stain that lasts and lasts and lasts

Benefit They're Real mascara - This year's killer mascara. I like to layer over BadGal because I'm wasteful but still lovely on its own

Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill shadows - Amazing foiled eyes. Everyone always asks what I'm wearing

Dr Dennis Grossman Alpha Beta Daily Peel Pads - CHANGED MY LIFE. Seriously.

Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume - Most delicious perfume in forever and has tempted me away from Coco Mademoiselle...

Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer - Cheap, cheerful and (whisper) better than Touche Eclat

EOS lip balms - Love the packaging, love the product

Fresh lip balms - Um, love the packaging, love the product - pricey though

Estee Lauder Idealist Illuminator - I've converted so many people to this. Love.

Dr Jart+ BB Cream - I will talk about this later but OH MY GOD. BUY.

Sally Hansen Nail Effects Strips - I like the patterned and glitter effects strips SO MUCH. Thanks Sally.

Shellac Gel Polishes - Long-lasting polishes that have changed my life - no chips = people think I'm a grown up, yeah!

Laura Mercier Baked Shadows - SO pretty, use them dry for a nice subtle effect, wet for drama

MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack - Late to this party but totally converted

The millions of Nars lipsticks I have bought during the year - special mentions to Manhunt and Mayflower

Obviously these aren't the only things I've tried and loved this year but they are the things that I've rebought or have found their way into my every day kit. Impressive. I'd love to hear what as found a home in your make-up bag in 2011 - email me at lindsey@lindseykelk.com or tweet @lindseykelk

Sunday 11 December 2011

Skin Art Temporary Tattoos

Now, I'm the first to admit that I'm a glitter fiend. At least sixty percent of my wardrobe is glittered or sequinned and all my favourite eyeshadows are at the very least, shimmertastic. I actually had to be physically removed from the glitter spray counter in Sephora on Wednesday...


So you can imagine how excited I was to receive the press release from Skin Art about their Glitter Tattoo Kit. How perfect for Christmas? The kit comes with stencils, glue and glitters so you can use the kit as is or come up with your own design and the tattoos last for up to five days! I would hope you shower enough not to make it to five days... If you're not glitter-inclined, you could go for the regular Tattoo Kit that has 99 easy to apply tats.


Since I've already got my own ink, I'm definitely erring towards the glitter but that will surprise no one...

The Temproary Tattoo Kit retails at £8.00 and Glitter Tattoo Kit £14.00, both from Boots and Boots.com

Saturday 10 December 2011

A Few of My Favourite Things...

OK, I promise to pull up my blogging socks from now on. I've been terrible. But the good news is, I'm procrastinating on the new book like a mofo so prepare thyselves for a lot of new posts...
Starting right now with the things I can't get enough of right now.

First things first, I've got a couple of new obsessions that you can get in on and I think they've made a huge difference to my make up. At least, they've had a lot of compliments and I think that's always a telling thing, right?

I've been pretty ill of late and quite frankly, suffering a lot of self-inflicted rough mornings so my eyes have been a big focus for me. Happily, I've also been on a bunch of photoshoots for my Marie Claire column (have you read it? Have you?) and learned lots of new tricks from my make up artist, Steph. Having been a dedicated Touche Eclat fan for so long, I was amazed to find I could get more or less the exact same result from Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer. I like the 'Brightener' shade for under my eyes and really, I'm totally smitten. Can't get enough of this one.

Then, on my lower inner rims, I've been using a bright, slight silver pencil. This was a tip straight from Steph and it makes a huge difference. It has to be a light silver though, too dark and you're closing the area up. After going through my epic silver pencil collection (I'm a metallic freak) the best option for me was a 17 chunk pencil. I have no idea if it's still available, I hope so. The consistency is so soft and the shade is perfect. Lots of shimmer but no glitter. after lining the lower inner rim, I take a black pencil (I've been using my Estee Lauder Double Wear in Black) and line the inner upper rims, just flicking out at the very edges to create some shape and definition but mostly leaving the upper lid clear. Then I've been using Benefit's RSVP on the upper lid and tons of Estee Lauder Double Wear mascara in black. Super, super cute look. Very low maintenance and very effective as a day to night look - just add black liner to the top lash line before you head out and you're done!

OK, I have to go and write another book. Back tomorrow (hopefully!).
Oh, and did I mention I Heart Vegas is out now? You could totally buy that. I'm just saying.

Tuesday 1 November 2011

Maaaan I'm lazy

Sorry to have vanished, it's been a busy old month.
1. I had a birthday (not relevant really but it could be)
2. I've moved into my own apartment
3. I've been building a lot of flatpack furniture
4. I've been unpacking a lot of boxes
5. I've been dressing up as a Pan Am stewardess and a Care Bear.

It was Halloween. It happened. Get over it.
I have to say, my Pan Am costume was made by my L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Lipcolour in Beyonce's Red. No, really, me and Bey. We're practically one being.

Now I'm settled(ish) into the new place, I expect life to return to something vaguely normal so there will be lots of lovely posting and lots of nonsense. You can expect to hear a lot about the Temptu foundation system and Juliette has a Gun perfume because I'm in love with them both right now. And Shellac manicures because they're awesome. And probably Twilight because it's on FX ALL THE TIME and I can't seem to turn it off.

Wednesday 5 October 2011

Bliss Fabulous Skin-Reviving Rubberizing Mask

So, I've been ever so slightly rubbish lately - sorry. There's no excuse but really, lots going on, most of it good, some of it not so good, some of it downright rubbish and the arse end of it is that I look shit. Really, really shit. Turning 31 on Monday didn't help...



Anyway, what did help was the amazing Bliss Fabulous Skin Reviving Rubberizing Mask.
I've had this in my testing drawer for the longest time and just haven't had half an hour to give it a shot but, wow, I'm so glad I did. Aside from the fact that it's super awesome fun times for your skin (full of seaweed, bilberry and vitamin C) it's the most fun you can have at home with a face mask. And that's a lot of fun.

It's easy, really. You mix the powder with water and then slather the cool sticky goo on your face then lay your ass down for twenty minutes while the whole thing rubberizes. Once it's solid, you get the extreme pleasure of peeling the tick layer of rubber off your chops, taking all sorts of dead skin and bad times with it. Brilliant. Each box includes six masks, six mixing sticks, a measuring cup and joy. The joy isn't listed on the ingredients but it's there.

I have decided it is as good for the soul as it is for the complexion and that I'm peeling away all life's shitty shit along with the mask.
But you can probably just use it as a face mask and it will be fine.

Saturday 17 September 2011

Clinique Mascaras

I've posted a lot about mascaras here, I know, but quite frankly that's because they're amazing.
And so Ms Keren has a wonderful post for us all about the fabulous mascaras from our friends at Clinique... BEHOLD!



I have troubles choosing which mascara from all the millions out there...

Luckily for me, and now you lovely readers, Clinique have grouped all theirs together so you can decide from either a daytime natural loo
k, special occasion or all out glamour... As modelled by the cutest dolls posing in their mini sets!



The one with the teeny tiny disco won me over, and I chose the High Definition Lashes*. I am very happy with my choice! I had already fallen in love with lash power and was wearing it for all occasions. But I now have different looks for day and evening, I rocked my new more full-on lash look on Saturday night with Lash Building Primer*, High Definition Lashes and Bottom Lash*, and felt more 'done' .... my friends commented on how long and thick my lashes looked. So all in all – Clinique have managed to completely win me over with 3 products. N
ow I also have the High Impact Lash Curling Mascara* to try... Will this be another winner?



Here’s a run down of all the mascara’s on offer...

Bottom Lash Mascara – you probably think you don’t need this baby, but I’ve found it super easy to apply, as unlike normal size mascara wands it defines even the wispiest lashes. And it’s the same formula as Lash power so does NOT smudge. RRP £10.00.

High Lengths – I haven’t tried this one, but Clinique say it their most lengthening and lifting mascara yet, with a special curved wand applicator that follows the natural curvature of the eyes... RRP £15.00

High Impact Curling Mascara – I’ll be reviewing this soon, but Clinique say it lasts 24 hours without running or smudging. RRP £15.00

Lash Power - As previously discovered, it does not smudge or smear. Yet the formula removes easily with warm water. RRP £15.00

High Definition Lashes – features the double-sided brush and comb wand, which lengthens AND volumises for a really glam look. Love it! RRP £15.00

Lash Doubling - I haven’t tried this one, but Clinique say it’s the ideal all-rounder that thickens, lengthens and curls. RRP £15.00

Naturally Glossy – this is the one that Clinique say looks very natural, and has virtually no clumping, flaking or smudging. RRP 15.00

High Impact – creates lashes with dramatic volume, length and intense colour without having to build up layers of mascara.

And lastly,
Lash Building Primer – I haven’t used lash primer before, but I like the fact that it dries really quickly so you don’t have to wait long to apply your mascara after, and helps it last longer and slick on more smoothly! RRP £10.00

Phew! Which one are you going to try?

*press samples

Wednesday 7 September 2011

Fashion's Night Out

Tomorrow is one of my favourite nights of the year, when all of New York turns out in their best togs, listens to bands and picks up some uber bargains. Yup, it's Fashion's Night Out. Already. Bloody hell.

Anyway, here's what I'll be up to*

Bands
Just like Natalie Imbruglia before me, I'm totally torn. Beach Fossils, one of my favourite bands, are playing at Bloomingdales, one of my favourite stores. But Best Coast, who I still haven't seen, are playing at Helmut Lang. And my friends, Bear Hands are playing with White Rabbits at Rockefeller Center. ARGH.

Sephora Soho
Stila’s iconic “Stila Girl” illustrationsare super cute but for the first time ever, Stila is bringing them to life and giving fans the chance to have their very own “Stila Girl” illustration created while receiving a makeover from a Stila Pro Artist. The first 50 people to stop by Stila’s touch-up booth at Sephora’s SoHo location will leave with a gorgeous glow and their personalized sketch. What are the chances of me being one of those 50 people?

Sephora Columbus Circle
Ooh, Peter Thomas Roth! My brother loves his skincare prods and i'm very excited about his new lash-enhancing liner, Lashes to Die For Liner. And there's a mini Lashes to Die For mascara for people who show. Hmm.

Sephora Times Square
GHD will be recreating iconic looks from Katy Perry's campaign and the lucky ladies getting their hair did, will also get their pics shot celeb photog Phillip Angert and there's lots of loot to be had. Ooh.

Sephora Herald Square
I'm also pretty tempted to hit the Herald Square store to try out Temptu airbrush make up.

Ricard Rojas Salon
For $40, fashionistas will receive a goodie bag packed with products from Oribe and Sebastian, a blow out and an express manicure at his Upper East Side salon. Sounds prettttttty good.

Marc Jacobs

No one will be surprised that a trip to the Marc Jacobs store on Mercer Street is on my to-do list. Dakota Fanning will be signing bottles of Oh, Lola! and answering my questions about the Twilight movies. Probably.

Vera Wang
Love Vera Wang? Love ice cream? Hunt down her ice cream truck, because Vera will be giving away samples of her new scent, Lovestruck, and ice cream treats all over the city, starting at her Mercer Street store at six pm.

Voli Vodka

And after all of this, I'll be hitting up each and every venue serving Voli Skinny Vodka cocktails - Spanx at Bloomingdales, the Allure lounge and Judith Ripka boutique.

Phew. I'm knackered.
Early night, I think.


*disclaimer: I will probs make one, maybe two of these events. I'm lazy.

Friday 12 August 2011

Clinique Black Honey

I am am getting so excited about autumn.

Now I know everyone loves summer (except me) and they want the sunshine (except me) and the long light nights (except me) but autumn is my favourite. It's not too cold, not too hot and my make up doesn't melt. Seriously, you can't even wear make up in NYC right now. It's heartbreaking.


But it's going to be OK. Soon I'll be able to launch into all of the wonderful Fall collections and smother my porcelain visage with all the slap Sephora has to offer. For starters, I'll be playing with Clinique's awesome new collection, The New Black. Inspired by their classic Black Honey gloss, the collection is So Pretty.

I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at this and have been all over the double ended lipgloss/almost lipstick - the only thing you can wear without fear of a meltdown right now - and I can't wait to start playing with the eye palette, perfect for a pretty smokey eye, on any eye colour but I think especially on blue eyes.
Which I happen to have.
Everything's coming up Millhouse!

Check it out at Clinique.co.uk

Saturday 6 August 2011

Benefit Cha Cha Tint

My love affair with Benefit Cosmetics goes back a Very Long Way. It was the heady days of the early 2000s and I was a student. A poor poverty stricken student. So what did I do with my days? Obviously I wasn't in university because I was a poor, poverty stricken English student so I only had about six hours of lectures and seminars a week (score). And I wasn't reading the books I was supposed to be reading because who does that? So I pretty much spent every waking hour, wandering around Boots and Debenhams in Nottingham, fiddling about with the make up counters. And my favourite? Benefit.



I'd read about Bad Gal and BeneTint of course but there were so may other wonderful things. The Bathina range, the Eye Bright pencil, Playsticks foundation, my beloved It Stick, not to mention High Beam, FY EYE (which I ended up bulk buying in Las Vegas two years later), Kitten body powder and You Rebel - the list goes on a bit, as you can see. And that's before Dandelion, Georgia and all the other wonderful powder boxes. The products were cute and quirky (as I wished to believe I was) and above all else, they were actually good. That's what I love about Benefit, its not style over substance, it's style and substance. Awesome.

That said, I was a bit wary when I saw the neon orange Cha Cha Tint bottle. I always have a bottle of BeneTint around (especially in the New York summer when a stain is an essential) and I've dabbled with PosieTint but a coral version? Really? But my concerns have been put well and truly to rest. I'm obsessed. As with the other tints in the Benefit range, you need to move quickly when applying so I like to do one cheek and then the other. Just two or three little dots, rubbed in to the apple of the cheek, blending up and back. Obviously, you should pop it wherever works best for you. For the lips, I love this way more than BeneTint. Cha Cha Tint has a more opaque formula and leaves such a fantastic colour on lips and obvs, if you've used it as your cheek colour, you've got perfect coordination right there but, because your natural lip colour comes into play, there's a subtle change, so you're not too matchy matchy.

Yes, it is a coral but it's a beautiful pinkish coral that looks fantastic in my pale skin as a cheek tint and lip colour and, while we were on the Marie Claire Inspire & Mentor tour, my agent - olive skin, brown hair - also picked up a bottle and looked amazing in it. Just so fresh and summery. So hurrah Benefit, you've done it again.

And you have also succeeded in reminding me of the time my grandad tried to teach me the cha cha cha and it was disaster.

Wednesday 3 August 2011

The Eyes Have It

I've heard it's a wee bit warm in England today.
Right. Get over it.
I've been back in NYC almost a week and it's really, really bloody warm. Almost 100 degrees warm, OK? Do you have any idea what this does to a girl's make up? Nothing good, let me tell you.



Happily, after much testing, I can confirm I have the perfect sunny day eye combo so that's one less thing for you to worry about. Prepare thyself...

Start with a primer if you have one (never hurts, I love Urban Decay's Primer Potion) then slick on a lid full of TopShop's longlasting eye crayon in Equinox. It's a beautiful pale gold that can be layered up for a more intense metallic finish or played down for a summery shimmer. Love. Now, the crayon lasts well on it's own but to really kick its arse, add a light brushing of Armani's Eyes to Kill Noka powder over the top. Somehow, this amazing product looks and feels like silk but gives the most intense metallic finish when layered. I mean, for reals the pay off here is intense.


For day, keep things light and just add a slick of your favourite waterproof mascara, then you're good to go. The metallic elements pick up the light and make your eyes sparkle but not in an overdone way, and they don't run or disappear halfway down your face. For night time, add a charcoal grey liner close to the lashline for definition or go a little crazier with a deep espresso brown, then add a couple more layers of the Armani powder for a really intense, sexy, smudgy smokey eye. And obviously, several thousand more coats of mascara.
I'm in love.


*Not an original post title I know, but I'm on a book deadline here, what more do you want?

Monday 18 July 2011

Festival Must Haves

This weekend I braved my first festival in four years and I can’t actually believe I did it. The last time I went to a music festival (Reading, 2007) someone threw a bottle of wee at my head on the way into the arena on the first day and on the second night, someone came into our tent to ask if we had something I could use as drumsticks. At four in the morning. He got a kick in the face for his trouble. And I got my tent weed on in retaliation.

But alas, alack, I returned to the festival circuit but this time as an actual act! Someone people allegedly want to see! I don’t know that it’s true but someone at Latitude apparently believed it was. Still, at least I was better prepared than I was in 2007... Disposable contact lenses and pop-up tents can change your life.

As well as the wee-themed 2007 trip to Reading, I’ve got a few other festivals under my belt and I’m well aware of their beauty shortcomings. In fact, who are we kidding, beauty? I’m well aware of their hygiene shortcoming. I consider myself lucky not to have home stinking and diseased. As I was trying to carry as little as possible and yet achieve some sort of ‘I’m not a skank, honest’ effect*, this is what I had in my (shudder) backpack.

- Neutrogena Face Wipes

- Elemis Lavender Toner

- La Mer SPF 30 Fluid

- Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

- Crappy shower gel from Duane Reade

- Neutrogena SPF 100 Spray

- Avon SSS Bug Spray

- Nars The Multiple mini in Orgasm

- Estee Lauder Double Wear Mascara in Black

- MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack

- Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill in Noka

- Dior Lip Glow

- Jurlique Anti-Bacterial Gel

I’ve always been a big fan of big, dark eyes at festivals. If ever there was a place where you can get away with the ‘yeah, I slept in my eyeliner and it looks awesome’ look, it’s at a festival. Of course, while slept in is a good look, it’s not an ideal scenario for your skin so the wipes are essential. Granted I think the shower gel is a bit of a stretch, in ten years I haven’t seen running water at a festival that hasn’t reduced me to tears. This year wasn't that different. So. Much. Mud.


*I was supposed to be reading with Helen Fielding. She didn't show. I think that's because Bridget v. v. hates camping. It's not a mini break, is it?

Saturday 9 July 2011

Elemis Fresh Skin + Signed Book Giveaway Take 2

It's been an odd old Saturday so here's some good news.
The winner of our second Elemis Fresh Skin giveaway and signed book (as pulled out of a hat by our cat*) is...

Lindsay Rogers!

Back to proper blogging next week. It's too hot to live right now. Well, not live but you know what what I mean. Wah, wah, etc, etc.

*I'm thinking Riddley needs her own column - she is very particular in her make up preferences and only chews on my best brushes. The cow.

Tuesday 5 July 2011

Colour Xtreme Summer Hair Winner

Hurrah! We have a winner! What a lovely way (for me because I'm lazy) to start a Tuesday!

The winner, as pulled out of an Urban Outfitters straw trilby I bought in TExas and never wore because it look awful is... CATH BORE!
Congrats, Cath, I'll email for your details.

Sorry if you didn't win, don't be sad, lots more competitions to come.
Might just try to finish this book first...

Friday 1 July 2011

Elemis Fresh Skin + Signed Book Giveaway


So, you remember when we did the Elemis Fresh Skin giveaway a couple of weeks ago?
Well, to celebrate the 4th of July weekend here in the US and Canada Day in my beloved Canadialand, we're doing the SAME THING AGAIN but here in North America!



So email me at lindsey@lindseykelk.com with the subject 'I want awesome skin' for your chance to win a full set of Elemis Fresh Skin goodies and a signed copy of The Single Girl's To-Do List.

I managed to sneak ten minutes into my London trip to have a look at the new Elemis ranges that are coming up and sweet Jebus, they're delicious. Am obsessed with the new Revive shower gel but I'll tell you all abut that later...

Sunday 26 June 2011

Colour Xtreme Summer Hair + Giveaway

Well, Glasto is almost over except because it's Glasto, we're waiting for Beyonce, not the fat lady, to sing. Much more glamorous. If you, like me, would rather cut off your right arm than hole up in a filthy mud hole for nigh on a week, just to get a glimpse of Bono being, well, Bono (or another word that also has four letters but starts with a 'c') there's a way to experience festival chic* without leaving the comfort of your own home.



I've always been a massive fan of colouring my hair and have sported many, many different hues in my day. Including pink. At the moment, I'm having kittens over the fact that my fiery red locks won't allow for the awesomeness that is ombre hair. You know all those super cool girls whose hair looks like it's been dip-dyed? Yeah, that. In fact, my amazingly hip hairdresser has her hair like it, a mid-brown fading down into sun-kissed blonde. In fact, half of Williamsburg has their hair like it. And so did half of Glasto.

Happily, thanks to the awesomeness of Colour Xtreme colour sprays, you don't have to a) commit to a very strong look that you might go off after a few days or b) the expense of a very strong look you might go off after a few days. For less than a fiver you can get yourself down to Boots, buy a can of Colour Extreme and do it yourself. Either buy a darker shade and spray into your roots to darken the top or buy a fun colour and dip dye the ends. Blonde hair looks very summery with pink tips... Just spray in, let it settle then brush it through. When you're bored, wash it out. Amaze. For some actual useful tips, they've got a Facebook page. Have a look.

And because the people at Colour Xtreme know we like to try new things, they've given me a FULL SET of colour sprays to give away. Email me at lindsey@lindseykelk.com and say I WANT AWESOME HAIR to be entered into the draw. You've got ONE WEEK!

*let's be honest, who looks chic after a festival? Disgusting. Just get the Colour Xtreme and don't worry about the rest of it.

Saturday 18 June 2011

Clinique Lash Power Mascara

I'm a bad BeautyLover.
Miss Keren sent me this an age ago and I forgot to post. Because I'm shit. Anyway, not shit, is Clinique's Lash Power mascara. I've long been a fan (see?) but here's a reminder as to why it's awesome:

Seeing as BeautyMecca is all about lashes this week, I have another mascara to throw into the mix. I got a press sample of Clinique’s Lash Power a few weeks ago and I am seriously loving it. It lengthens and separates without any clumps, for very pretty lashes.

BUT the best bit... it does NOT budge... at all. Until you want it to, that is. You don't need eye make-up remover to take it off. Just a little bit of warm water, some gentle massaging and it comes off, without panda eyes. It is just brilliant.



I have tried the Blinc mascara that has the same removable qualities and I loved that too, but sorry Blinc, Clinique has bettered your wand – it is just a better size and shape for lengthening.

When this sample has run out I will be off to Clinique for another. And as I generally change my mascara brand every time I buy a new mascara, this is a big compliment. And it’s only £15.

They say: Vows to look pretty for 24 hours without a smudge or smear. One stroke and these pretty lashes last through rain, sweat, humidity, tears. Yet the formula removes easily with warm water. Unique brush reaches and beautifully lengthens even the tiniest of lashes. Ophthalmologist tested, too.


I'm all over Clinique at the moment. Between the Chubby Sticks and the Long Last Glosswear (in Juicy Apple in case you were wondering) I'm having a bit of a love in.

What are you wearing right now?

Monday 13 June 2011

Elemis FreshSkin Competition + TSGTDL Giveaway!

My love of Elemis is well documented here and so you can imagine how bloody excited I was to hear that they were launching a line for younger skins. It's a brilliant range for skins that have graduated from the teen skincare lines but aren't quite ready for the regular Elemis line... plus it's a more affordable way to get into the range. And the packaging is pink, which is nice.


The products are all formulated with active raw ingredients like elderflower, rosehip seed oil, goji berry and apple specially chosen to care for young skin. I've been a devotee of the big sister range for the longest time but I've given several of the products a run out and I'm impressed. I forgot my Collagen Marine cream on my last trip to London and the lovely ladies at Elemis gave me the FreshSkin moisturiser to try and bugger me, if my skin wasn't just as soft and glowing as ever. I also loved the lip balm and as much as I detest cleansing wipe, the FreshSkin wipes did a bloody good job of trying to change my mind. There wasn't that nasty residue you often get with them and I'll be packing them for my festival appearances this summer. Check out the rest of the line here.

To celebrate the FreshSkin launch, we have a full set of products PLUS a signed copy of my new book, The Single Girl's To-Do List to give away - it's Monday, we need cheering up... To enter, just leave a comment on this post. You can just say hi or ask a question or just say something lovely. My roommate's cat will be picking a winner on the 16th. YAY!

Tuesday 7 June 2011

Estee Lauder Idealist

As I've mentioned, it's bloody warm here in NYC right now and my skin is suffering. Happily, I have been extraordinarily lucky over the last couple of months to be testing out a brand new product from Estee Lauder which lands on UK counters June 7th! That's tomorrow! Or today! Depending on when you're reading!


A few years ago, I went cray cray for the Idealist Skin Refinisher. I loved the scent, I loved the feel of my skin afterwards and, well, quite frankly I liked the shiny green bottle. So you can imagine how delighted I was when I was invited to the launch of the new Idealist Even Skintone serum and Cooling Eye Illuminator (I was very excited - Martha Stewart was there).


Basically, the products are both amazing. There aren't that many skincare products that deliver instant results and long term benefits but the Even Skintone Serum is one of them. Once I've applied the golden creamy product to my skin, I barely even need foundation. That is amazing. I do need a moisturiser with sunscreen (of course) but foundation? Fugedabowdit. As you can imagine, it's chock full of awesome ingredients (I talked to a scientist about them but I was a bit drunk so I can't really remember what she said. She was lovely though.) but all you really need to know is that it works. To the point where, when my sample runs out, I will be spending hard earned cash on more.

The only thing that concerns me is that there's a fine chance that it's actually made with witchcraft - which would explain why I don't remember the science bit - because the one product works across all ethnicities and skintones. OK, it's probably not witchcraft but your skin will look instantly brighter and more radiant and over time, it helps even skintone because - and I quote - it includes 'Highly-effective anti-spot ingredients including an optimized Glucosamine-DP molecule blend, Vitamin C and Botanical Extracts that work together gently and quickly to help reduce the look of dark spots due to excess accumulations of pigment. Anti-oxidants including Rice Bran Extract and Vitamin E help skin remain looking free of imperfections and unevenness. Soothing anti-irritants including Liquorice and Gentian minimise the visible irritation that can cause a look of redness and blotchiness.'

OK? OK.

And as for the Cooling Eye Illuminator, it's pretty much a similar deal but combined with a lovely, lovely ceramic applicator which cools the eye area, making the results more immediate. And it comes in two shades because Estee Lauder are awesome. I was discussing eye creams with friends a couple of weeks ago and it turned out this one (particularly pretty) friend of a friend worked on the design team for Lauder packaging and had already tried the Cooling Eye Illuminator. Needless to say, our friends went away with very clear instructions on what they should be purchasing.

Monday 6 June 2011

Clinique Chubby Sticks

New York, my beloved New York, decided not to bother with spring this year and has rolled over into full on sweaty, steamy summer. This hurts me inside but more importantly, it also hurts me outside. I'm smothered in SPF 100 (not smothered actually as I have a delightful Neutrogena spray) and my make up is melting off my face. I've already switched from foundation to tinted moisturiser and my mascara is officially of the waterproof variety. But what to do for that pop of colour on the lips?



I've been a lip balm addict for as long as I can remember so it's not like I'm short on options. However, since receiving several samples of the new Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm, I've been smitten. I love a chunky pencil product, no really, you'll find all sorts of shit in my make-up bag just because someone made it into a pencil, so this is a dream come true. And on top of the 'made for Lindsey' packaging, they're actually really good. Just the right balance of colour saturation and moisturising product. They don't overdo it, you know how coloured balms sometimes build up and look gross? Not the case. They're subtle but definitely there. I'm all about Super Strawberry and Chunky Cherry but there are eight shades to choose from in total - got to be one for everyone, right?

Also, side note, but I'm loving Clinique's ads right now.
I'm loving everything.
I'll be quiet.

Elemis Anti-Ageing Super Duo

You know I loves me some Elemis and you know I love to share my loves with you (I'm all love, all the time) so it's good news all round today.




Throughout June, you can pick up the limited edition Anti-Ageing Duo, containing a her-yow-age 100ml supersize vat of the amazing Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and my beloved Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss capsules, top of my travel must-haves list. And it's in a pretty silver box. And yes it's £127.66 but you'd be saving more than £59. So that's good, right? Right.

Love it.

Tuesday 24 May 2011

Bobbi Brown Concealer

That lovely Ms Keren has been at it again, here she is with her review of Bobbi Brown's awesome new concealer...




As Ms Kelk is sharing some of her fave products with you this week, I thought I would jump on the bandwagon and share with you some new goodies I have been trying out too...

First up is Bobbi Brown’s Creamy Concealer Kit... according to Bobbi, concealer is the secret of the universe. She says the right concealer will make you look fresh and well-rested. I had my colour matched for this at a recent launch and as I feel like I always look tired these days, I was excited and hoping not to be disappointed. All the ladies who tried it left the room looking fresh, wide awake and minus eye bags! It is available in 14 shades and it comes in a dinky package for re-touches – on one side is the creamy concealer and the other side is a finishing powder. My only complaint is that the lights were pretty bright at both events and it started to separate after a while under the extreme heat. I don’t know if any one else experienced this. However I have been using it for a couple of weeks in a more normal environment, for example, tube-office-tube-home and even the recent sunny and hot days and it has faired much better... So it’s not much of a gripe as it does remove the purple tones better than the other under eye concealers I have tried over the years and looks very natural. One thing to note, it is really only for under eyes as the consistency isn’t suitable for other blemishes. Bobbi also recommends using a lightweight eye cream before you apply, but you can check out a video of how to apply it properly on their website too.

Creamy Concealer Kit is priced at £23.50

www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Tuesday 17 May 2011

These are a few of my favourite things... L'Oreal Mascara

One of the reasons I started writing BeautyMecca was to fulfill my quest for the ultimate mascara. Over time I have discovered that no one mascara can satisfy the needs of a woman, it's just too much to ask. But thanks to my tireless dedication to buying up the entire mascara stocks of every shop I pass by, I have found several that between them, just about do every job I could ask for.

Given that mascara needs changing pretty often, I've found cheaper brands to be just as good as the designer labels and my top go to mazzy for thick, fluttery lashes is L'Oreal's Voluminous Million Lashes. It's cheap, it's effective, the brush is great, it doesn't make my lashes clump together and I like the shiny gold tube.



As someone who has fun chipmunk cheeks, I have a problem with mascara smudging under my eyes at the first sign of wear and tear but this bad boy tends to last a little longer than most others. It's not waterproof by any stretch of the imagination but it really lasts. And seriously, the longest, flutteriest lashes you ever did see.

Apparently J Lo and Jennifer Hudson are fans, so, you know... 'tis the shit.

Ardell Lashes

There are many things I love about being in New York. Missing out on awesome events like this is not one of them. Happily, Miss Catherine was my woman on a mission and reports from Ardell's lash masterclass...


There's nothing that makes a girl feel more fancypants than fluttery eyelashes. But I always end up with them half-way down my cheeks by the end of the evening. So hurrah! I was lucky enough to go to a lash masterclass with super-nice make-up maestro Louise Page using Ardell lashes, which are available in a dizzying array of styles.

First top tip from Lou is to carefully remove the eyelashes from the tray and then flex/bend them gently. This softens up the edges of the lash, so when they're applied you avoid that annoying curling-at-the-corners problem. Then hold the edge of the lash against the outer edge of the eye so you can judge the size against your lid. If it's a bit too long, snip a little off the end. Then take the lash glue, squeeze some out and apply to the edge of your lash using a toothpick. Starting from the outer edge of the eye, gently press them against your lashline. Et voila! Flittery fluttery eyelashes!

I wore style 109 in demi black. They were super fluttery but still realistic. If you wanted to, you could always apply 2 pairs - the lovely Claudia from the Lou Page Academy, who gave me a personal lash lesson, said that often they'll apply 2 sets when applying make up for celebs. And at only around £5 for a pair at Boots, totes affordable too. Apparently Katie Price wears 3 sets at a time. Even with my new-found lash addiction, maybe a step too far for me...

www.ardelllashes.com
www.louisepageacademy.com

Wednesday 4 May 2011

Royal Wedding Make Up Special - Bobbi Brown

Now, I mostly avoided the royal wedding as just looking at wedding dresses make me come out in hives but I must admit to ogling everyone's beautiful make up after the event. I wasn't surprised to hear that most of the main looks were courtesy of Bobbi Brown, Bobbi is the master of natural looking prettification and I will happily say everyone looked stunning.

If you want to replicate the looks yourself, try these royal wedding inspired looks...

Bride

1. Start with clean, fresh skin. Even out skin tone with Corrector (£17.00), Concealer (£17.00) and Foundation.

2. Sweep Ivory Eye Shadow (£15.00) all over the lid.

3. Apply Rockstar Metallic Eye Shadow (£15.00) on the lower lid.

4. Blend Slate Eye Shadow (£15.00) into the crease.

5. Line upper and lower lash lines with Black Ink Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner (£15.50), making sure that the top line is thicker than the bottom.

6. Brush on two coats of Black No Smudge Mascara (£18.00).

7. Smile and sweep Pale Pink Blush (£17.00) on the apples of the cheeks.

8. Dust Pink Quartz Shimmer Brick (£30.50) high on the cheekbones.

9. Apply Sandwash Pink Lip Color (£16.00) on lips, followed by Crystal Gloss.

Maid of Honour

1. Begin by applying Corrector (£17.00), Concealer (£17.00) and a little bit of Foundation for beautifully even skin.

2. Warm up the face with a skin-tone-correct Bronzer (£24.00).

3. Sweep Bone Eye Shadow (£15.00) across the entire lid.

4. Apply Long Wear Cream Shadow in Ash (£16.50) on the lower lid only.

5. Perfectly define the eyes with Long Wear Gel Eye Liner in Black Ink (£15.50) on the top and bottom lash lines.

6. Open and curl the lashes with two coats of Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara (£18.00).

7. Play up the cheeks with Blush in Sand Pink (£17.00).

8. Softly brush a Highlighter Pen (£25.00) high onto the cheek bones for added definition and shimmer.

9. Apply Blondie Pink Lip Color (£16.00) on the lips, followed by Confetti Lip Gloss (£14.50).


Tuesday 3 May 2011

I Want... Urban Decay Urban Bride

I'm a huge fan of Urban Decay and am rarely without one of their 24/7 eyeliners or shadow pencils, it's a weakness. Seriously, I've tried to write it off as a 'collection' like how one might collect stickers or Polly Pocket figures (which I did when I was like, nine) but it's just wanton greed and vanity really. Two sins in one, yay!

Anyway, I'm super excited about their new Urban Bride box. Chock full of awesome products that will guarantee every bride looks her best on her big day, I'll be picking this bad boy up for the two brides I'll be hanging with this summer (as well as one for myself because, sod it, why shouldn't we single girls have some fun too?). UD have the market cornered on cool, long-lasting products and this kit is a great starting point for any blushing bride. And once the products have all come out to play, the new missus can use the beautiful box to save her wedding mementos.

The box has been released to tie-in with the new movie, Bridesmaids, something else I can't wait for. John Hamm and Chris O'Dowd in one movie? Did they make this movie for me? I think yes. And I feel similarly about the UD kit. Despite the fact I'm single.
Please see above comment re: sod it.

These are a few of my favourite things... Davines

Since I went red in December (best. decisions. ever) I've spent rather a lot of time worrying* about fade out, something that never really bothered me when I was brunette. Luckily for me, the salon where I get my colour did - Woodley & Bunny - carries an amazing range for coloured hair by Davines. I've never been a massive fan of colour depositing shampoos and conditioners as I've always found them a bit drying but the Davines Alchemic system is amaze. I use the Red shampoo and conditioner a couple of times a week and seriously, I get next to no fade out plus my hair is super soft and manageable.


The shampoo takes a bit of getting used to as it needs a minute's massage to 'give' - make sure your hair is completely saturated before you begin - and the conditioner looks terrifying, just like red putty, but it really is fantastic stuff. I won't lie, it's an investment but if you're going to the trouble of colouring your hair red, you're kind of committing yourself to a hell of a lot of up keep from the outset. If you offset the cost of the shampoo and conditioner against how regularly you'll need touch ups, I'm pretty sure they'll pay for themselves within a year. I've been a redhead for nearly six months now and I've just opened my second bottle/jar of product. It lasts aaaaages.



For non-redheads hair, I loved the Davines Nourishing hair pack in days of old, it's ridiculously moisturising if you've got very dry or very long hair that needs a bit of TLC. Plus it's green and looks like something out of Ghostbusters. Score.



*I am spending way too much time worrying about things at the moment, aren't I? And this is just my beauty routine, don't even get me started on work or boys, you'll never hear the end of it...

These are a few of my favourite things... Elemis Cleansers

I realised the other day it's been an age since I shared some of my new favourite products with you so that's what you're going to get this week. Hope that's OK.

For the last few months, my skin has been awful dry and for someone who has only ever had combination skin at best, this has been extra distressing. Mainly because it means I'm old. Well, I am (whisper) thirty but still, it hurts. My lovely Philosophy Purity cleanser just wasn't cutting it and so I turned back to my Liz Earle Cream Cleanser but still, it just wasn't working out. And so I dug into the BeautyMecca box to see what I could see and lo and behold, hidden away was the Elemis Melting Cleansing Gel and Rosepetal Cleanser.



I immediately stuck the cleansing gel in the shower and started using it in place of the Purity in a morning. The Rosepetal cleanser took over from the Liz Earle as a cream cleanser at bedtime, massaged into dry skin and removed with a hot cloth. I LOVED it. And more importantly, so did my skin. The consistency is a lot looser than the Liz Earle and it melted all my make up and daily grime right away. It also sorted my eye make up right out.


The next morning, I busted out the gel cleanser. This is a really nice product, transforming from a pearlised gel to a creamy cleansing milk once on wet skin. It felt like I was getting a really great deep cleanse but my skin didn't feel like it was stripped at all.

It's been about two weeks since I switched up my routine and I have to say, my skin does look a lot better however, the real test will be at my facial appointment tomorrow. The last time I was looked at (during the wonder of spa week) I was told my skin was very dehydrated, the death knell of ageing skin. Fingers crossed I'll get better news in the morning...

Wednesday 27 April 2011

Beauty.com goodness

I have been meaning to get hold of a Clarisonic cleanser for the longest time. And at last, I think I've found my motivation.


This week, Beauty.com is offering the limited edition lavender Clarisonic-Mia with a Jurlique Skin Brightening set. Now, I'm new to Jurlique but I'm a huge fan of everything I've tried so far. For $149, you get the Clarisonic Mia and full-size Jurlique Purely White Skin Brightening Cleanser and deluxe sample of the Jurlique Purely White Skin Brightening Essence. Sounds good, right? As well as being able to purchase here, you can also enter to win the package on Beauty.com Facebook page.

Obviously the Clarisonic Mia isn't a cheap but of kit so to make it a bargain in anyway delights me. Colour me delighted.

Actually, colour me sunburned because I went to the beach today and the wind ripped my sunscreen right off. Sonofa...

Monday 11 April 2011

Lush's Japan Aid Soap


Just a quickie because I'm super rushed today but please, please, please check out Lush's Japan Aid soap. For just £5.00, you get a really rather wonderful soap from Lush and all proceeds go to help relief efforts in Japan, via a charity called Peace Boat. The soap is available in all Lush shops nationwide and online.

Thursday 7 April 2011

TIGI Bedhead Colour Combat

As I may have mentioned several million times, I recently went red (in the head department) and keeping hold of that cover once I've paid a bazillion dollars* for it, is now one of my constant torments.

Happily, I've been giving a few products a go and they're all working out. Whee. Next time I get the roots done, I'll do some before and after shots for you. Honest. If I remember. Anyway, first up on the block is Tigi Bedhead's Colour Combat shampoo and conditioner.
I wasn't sure about this at first as I've been very much leaning towards colour depositing options but I stuck this in the shower, looked at it for a few days and then, one shiny morning, I stepped into the shower to find it smelling of the most delicious toffee-chocolate-candy goodness. Seriously, I wanted to lick the walls. And I clean our shower so I know that wouldn't be a good idea. Turned out, my brunette-coloured roommate had popped open the Colour Combat and that was where the amazing scent was coming from. I immediately caved and washed, rinsed and repeated. It was delicious. Any no colour loss!

I have to admit that I've still been including my colour depositing deep conditioner once a week or so but in between treatments, this is a great, great, great option. Love. My roommate also vouches for it's wonder. The main evidence of this is that we've already gone through one set of the shampoo and conditioner and are currently fighting over the leave-in conditioner.

We used the Colour Goddess version (kindly provided by ABPR) for redheads and brunettes but I'd love to hear from anyone who's tried the Dumb Blonde version. Check out the entire range at www.bedhead.com I'm also a long-term lover of After Party if you're putting an order in. And when I had shorter hair, I lived and died by Hard to Get. Love.


*This is an approximate cost, submitted to my bank manager on a six weekly-basis.

Tuesday 5 April 2011

Headmasters Blow Out Collection

Now, I realise that if you read any other blogs on the entire internet, you've already read about the new Headmasters Blow Dry collection but quite frankly, it's so pretty, I don't care. So you can read on and listen to me prattle on about the pretty or you can scroll down and enter the June Jacobs competition, OK?
OK.

So, let me start by explaining that I was supposed to attend the press day at HM when I was in London back in March but sadly, I was otherwise engaged (damnable ill relatives who are now PERFECTLY HEALTHY) so I a) missed out on pretty hair and b) missed out on my beautiful London hairdressing boyfriend, Jonathan. Rowr*. Regardless, I got the press release and died a little bit inside because OMG, these are some fine looking hairstyles.




Dreamy Grunge might be my dream hair. Seriously. I love it but they're all pretty wonderful. Manhattan Curl makes me wish I could pull off that 'together' look (I can't) and Bergdorf Belle, well, firstly it makes me want to go to Bergdorfs but secondly, it makes me want to grow out my hair instead of lopping it off. And I am about to lop it off. Prepare yourselves for that bombshell.



So head on over to Headmasters and take a look at the collection for yourself. I defy you not to find something you love. I'm getting palpitations just checking it out.
But then I'm not healthy, we all know that.

*It's a long story. A friend of mine works for HM and set me up with a blow out with Jonathan a year or so ago, I immediately assumed that he was gay, spent an hour regaling him and my friend with horrifying dating stories and then found out afterwards that he was in fact very straight. For shame. He's bloody lovely and does a damn fine job on your hair. Works out of the Mayfair salon, go and touch him.

Monday 4 April 2011

June Jacobs & The Single Girl's To-Do List Goodness

I can't begin to tell you how much I love the people at June Jacobs Spa Collections and apparently, they love us too. Which is always nice... Anyway, to demonstrate that love, they want to give one lucky BeautyMecca reader a hamper full of joy (well, a hamper full of their products which as far as I'm concerned, equals joy) worth $1000. Seriously. FOR REALSIES.

And all you have to do to win such wonders is visit their page at QVC.com - my hangover TV channel of choice - and tell me which product you'd most like to try. All the entries will be chucked in a giant hat, I'm thinking a top hat, and one winner will get the hamper. How awesome is that? And since June Jacobs Spa is being so lovely, the least I can do is throw in a copy of the NOT YET PUBLISHED The Single Girl's To-Do List. Because a home spa night is definitely something that would be on my to-do list.

So here's how to enter. Click here and peruse the June Jacobs goodies and then click on the June Jacobs Facebook page and post on the wall which product you'd love to try. You have until Friday to throw your hat in the ring...

Personally, I'm all about trying the gorgeous hydrating products like the Cranberry Pomegranate Moisture Masque as my skin as been as dry as a nun's chuff lately. Sorry mum.

Saturday 2 April 2011

Nars Manhunt

Just a quickie as I'm in a mad rush (for a change) but I've recently become slightly obsessed with all things ladylike - right on schedule for fashion to take a boho 70s turn of course - and aside from this Marc Jacobs satchel that I need, I cannot step away from slightly 40s style make up.


It's been all black liquid liner and red lipstick for me of late, odd when you think I've gone red with the hair, but it doesn't clash, it just looks polished and put together. Well, until you get to my hair. Messssssy. But I digress, Nars Manhunt, a sheer poppy red, is perfect for this day look. It's not a scary red because it's so sheer and buildable but the colour is true and beautiful. It looks great against my pale skin and goes with pretty much everything. And thanks to the texture, you can even smudge a little into the apples of your cheeks for a coordinating flush which is a real bonus since it can be so hard to get the right blush with a red lip.

And now we've got the sensible reasons to buy it out of the way, let's deal with the fact that it's Nars and therefore epically desirable, amazing tactile packaging, perfectly shaped bullet and worth every penny. Nars gives me a lady boner. Rowr.

Sorry, despite the word usage there, that was incredibly unladylike, wasn't it?
Well, I tried.

Saturday 26 March 2011

The Vitality Show

I hear it's delightful in the UK right now. That's nice. It's freezing in New York.
So while I sit here, slaving away over my new book WITH THE HEATING ON, why don't you skip on down to the Vitality Show in the sunshine. I don't mind. Honest. You bastards.

5 Reasons to skip over to the Vitality Show this weekend

I was supposed to have some professional photos for this post but at the last minute my photographer ditched me for a better offer – tsk! I took my sister instead and she bought a super gadget she is going to test out for you lovely people. More on that later...

Anyway here are my top 5 reasons for heading over to the Vitality Show this weekend.

1. Freebies – the free goody bag has lots of samples which are always handy for the gym bag, or nights away (if you’re a gym dodger). And there are tons more minis to pick up on the way round. I am a fan of try before you buy. Just head towards the back of the show to pick up your goody bag.

2. Nibbling – no need to get peckish when wandering around, you can sample all kinds of weird and wonderful snacks... Mostly of the hemp and carob and carrot variety, but also did spy some less than healthy cheese related snacks.

3. Photo opportunities – I honestly thought I could get my picture with a little fluffy Andrex puppy, but it turned out to be of the person in a costume variety. My sister found it very amusing that everyone was carrying around a free roll of toilet paper in a little bag.

4. Gadget-tastic – my fave of the show is the Epicare, which my sister is going to try out, a dinky little gadget for hair removal (not exactly glamorama, but I hope you agree, a necessity) which mimics the action of threading but can be mastered in minute (hopefully). More on this soon!

5. Foot treats – we managed to wangle a lovely foot massage to relieve our tired feet at the end of the show, from the ladies at Delightful Footnotes. Our feet were super soft and citrus fresh by the end. More details below...

There are tons more reasons, the one I am kicking myself about today is 15% off at the Benefit stand and a free £45 gift if you buy 3 products. I foolishly decided to avoid the stand because I bought 3 products on pay day last week. But as soon as I got home I realised I could have easily found 3 more things I wanted, I mean needed.

More beauty bargains to be had...

UNE natural beauty
Stand: B521
Any 2 products £14 + receive a FREE Limited Edition UNE make-up bag
Spend over £20 + receive a FREE Green Beauty Bible (rrp £14.99)

Benefit Cosmetics
Stand: B500
15% OFF Benefit Cosmetics

Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics
Stand: B650
Exclusive and super-cute show-only gift bags at just £8. I especially loved the super-size lip balms in the Tea Party set.

Delightful Footnotes Ltd
Section: Beauty
B610
Relax on beautiful High Heel Shoe Chairs and enjoy our soothing Pedi-care Treatment. Show Offer price of £25 includes a Delightful Footnotes Travel Set and Nail File worth over £30.

And everything else you need to know at
www.vitalitylive.co.uk

Monday 21 March 2011

An Apple a Day Keeps the Wrinkles Away...

Ooh, you lucky people you. It's another report fresh from London courtesy of that lovely Miss Keren... She spoils us. Which is lucky since I'm so bloody manically busy, I just let you down (Yes, I am fishing for reassurance).


I do love a bit of a story behind a product, maybe it’s because I work in book publishing, but even Michelle Obama likes this story. Once upon a time, some scientist-types noticed that when the Swiss apple fell from the tree it did not wrinkle for a long, long time. Hmmm, they thought, can we extract something from said apple to make a miracle cream. For a while the miracle cream was only available to those with a husband in the white house... But thanks to the lovely people at Superdrug we can all afford to have a go.

Superdrug Optimum Swiss Apple Skin Renewal Day Cream is the latest addition to Superdrug’s Optimum apple stem cell anti-aging skincare range, the first being their best-selling Overnight renewal serum. Both products claim to contain the same miracle ingredient as the expensive versions, but for a lot less pennies... one example being Clark’s Botanicals Cellular Lifting serum is £284 at Space.NK (I digress... but the packaging is so pretty)

I have been using them both* for a few weeks now, and the first thing I noticed was the smell – fresh and (unsurprisingly) apple-y, as I find most miracle creams can smell a bit, well... Plain, if you know what I mean.

I have to admit, even if this is a bit annoying, I don’t have massive amount of wrinkles apart from a mahoosive frown line acquired from 10 years of glaring at people who crush me on the tube. But I do have a tendency to fine dehydration lines around my eyes, and I can say it has rehydrated my tired looking skin and my face feels super-smooth.

Superdrug Optimum Swiss Apple Skin Renewal Day Cream is £9.99
Superdrug Optimum Swiss Apple Overnight renewal serum is £11.99

*press samples

Friday 18 March 2011

AMBI Skincare

I don't get sent that much info on products specifically formulated for women of colour and when I do, they tend to be extraordinarily expensive, so I was pretty pleased when I received a press release about AMBI skincare. Obviously, it's not something I know masses about, given that I'm the whitest white girl in the world but I know getting the right skincare without having to spend a billion dollars is a major concern of my friends. Black skin does have different needs to white skin or Asian skin and making sure it's cared for properly is paramount.



Not only is AMBI a total bargain (the essential cleanser and daily moisturiser both come in at just $4.99) but the products are chock full of goodies to hydrate and cleanse skin at the same time. Plus the moisturiser has an SPF of 15. I don't need to remind you how important that is, regardless of the colour of your skin, do I? Especially since SPRING IS TOTALLY SPRUNG.
YAY SPRING! Sorry, off topic there.



Check out the rest of the range here. There's a product solution for every potential skincare issue at a really great price. Also, did I mention YAY, it's SPRING!

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