Battle of the Micellar Waters… Which Works Best?

Micellar Water Review

As much as I quite often adore my nightly cleansing regime, there’s some evenings that (let’s be honest gals) I just can’t be bothered with going overboard with the facial scrubs, or have decided upon a make-up free day and all I want to do is reach for my Micellar Water for a quick freshen up. The great thing about always having a bottle of Micellar Water close to hand is besides the fact that it’s a quick & easy peasy way to cleanse your face, it’s also widely known to be gentle on sensitive skin, a quick way to invigorate your face after a gruelling gym session or just for those lazy days…like the one’s I have much too often!

But which brand is best to buy? With Micellar Waters really taking off in recent months it seems every household name (supermarkets included) are jumping head first onto the cleansing water bandwagon. So with that in mind my mission began as I scoured the skin care shelves of my local stores to see what was on offer that was both affordable and easily picked up should I need a top up.

If truth be told, I wasn’t actually expecting much of a difference, after all how diverse could bottles of water really be? Surely they’d all be much of a muchness, right? Wrong. Comparing costs, with overall results I was pretty surprised by some of my findings. So if you’re on the hunt for a stash of Micellar Water then get yourself comfy and keep reading as I attempt to uncover which works best…

Brand:  Boots Botanics All Bright Micellar 3 in 1 Cleansing Lotion

Boots Botanics Micellar Water

Description:  “This cleansing solution feels as gentle as water on the skin, to dissolve make up, unclog pores and remove impurities. Skin feels toned and smooth in one easy step. No rinsing required for use on the face, eyes and lips.

Hibiscus is nature’s brightness booster and a wonderful hue of pink. Natural AHA’s from the flower act as mild exfoliators to help leave skin smoother and brighter.

Our beauty scientists have worked with the world experts in plant science at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (England), to bring you beautiful, plant powered skin care that’s proven to work.”

 (Source: Boots Website)

Size of bottle:  250ml

RRP:   £4.49

Pros & Cons:  Initially it was the pretty packaging that initially caught my eye. I love the clear bottle very subtly detailed with pictures of flowers, embracing that it’s been created alongside Kew Royal Botanical Gardens. This felt incredibly fresh on my skin and left no obvious signs of agitation whatsoever. It also done a wonderful job of removing my make-up quick and easily, without any residue.

Just be careful when opening, the bottle neck is quite open so a much higher chance of spillage!

Works Best For: Dull skin that needs a little bit of cheering up.

Link to Purchase:  http://www.boots.com/en/Botanics-All-Bright-Micellar-3-in-1-Cleansing-Solution_1493104/

Overall Rating:  4 Star

Brand:   Nivea Sensitive 3 in 1 Micellar Water

Nivea Micellar Water

Description:  “It helps protect against the 3 main signs of sensitive skin when used together with a NIVEA® Sensitive care product:

1) Redness

2) Tightness

3) Dryness

The caring formula with Dexpanthenol & Grape Seed Oil:

Cleanses deeply thanks to its extra effective yet mild cleansing complex

Moisturises and refreshes the skin

Is free of parabens, colours and perfume”

(Source: Boots Website)

Size of bottle:  200ml

RRP:   £3.69

Pros & Cons:  I’ve been a huge fan of Nivea for quite some time now, and have to say they’ve rarely disappointed in quality and affordability. Their Micellar water worked a treat for me, removing my make-up quickly and effortless ease. My skin felt always felt really refreshed and smooth after cleansing. Overall a great water and well worth trying out!

Works Best For: Those with normal/dry skin, however can feel a little tightening on super-sensitive skin

Link to Purchase:  http://www.boots.com/en/NIVEA-Daily-Essentials-Sensitive-3in1-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-200ml_1454148/

Rating: 4 Star

Brand:  Superdrug Simply Pure Micellar Water

Superdrug Simply Pure Micellar water

Description:  “Simply Pure Micellar Water. Developed purely for sensitive skin, Simply Pure products are mild, gentle and 100% fragrance free.

Hypoallergenic. Dermatologically Approved”

(Source: Superdrug Website)

Size of bottle:  150ml

RRP:  £2.69

Link to Purchase:  http://www.superdrug.com/Buy-1-Get-2nd-1-2-Price-on-Own-Brand-Products/Superdrug-Simply-Pure-Micellar-Water-150ml/p/954358

Works Best For: Possibly those who wear very little/no makeup.

Pros & Cons:  As much as I hate to admit it, I’m really struggling to find positive feedback on this product. Firstly the packaging just doesn’t cut it for me. Compared to other products it looks outdated, bland and suspiciously like a bottle of nail varnish remover.  As for the formula it really wasn’t much better as it felt oily, greasy and had a hint of perfume (which I assume is the chemical ingredients) even though it claims to be fragrance free. Not great at removing eye make-up either though it did an okay job at removing foundation. Sorry Superdrug, back to the drawing board with this one!

Rating:  0 Star

Brand:  Boots Time Delay

Boots Time Dealy Micellar Water

Description:  “This gentle Micellar cleansing water dissolves make-up and impurities in one easy step. It is gentle enough to use around the eyes, removes eye make-up and leaves skin clean, soft and hydrated.

Removes eye make-up

Contains soothing aloe vera.

Suitable for all skin types.

Fragrance and colour free.

Contains soothing aloe vera.

Fragrance and colour free and is suitable for all skin types.

Dermatologically tested.

For best results follow with Time Delay toner and your favourite Time Delay moisturiser.”

(Sourced: Boots Website)

Size of bottle:  200ml

RRP:  £4.49

Link to Purchase:  http://www.boots.com/en/Boots-Time-Delay-Daily-Cleansing-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-200ml_1440680/

Works Best For: The brand seems directed at a more mature customer base, with it’s elegant packaging and classic typography. Best suited to those with combination skin that don’t wear heavy eye make-up or lashing of waterproof mascara.

Pros & Cons:  Lovely packaging, adore the clear bottle – always gives an obvious indication of how much is left before hitting empty. Seemingly marketed for the slightly more ‘mature’ customer, however great for skin of any age in my opinion. Done a reasonably decent job of removing make-up, though struggled a little with mascara and darker coloured shadows. Also noticed that my skin felt a little tighter than usual after using.

Rating: 3 Star

Brand:  Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Water

Simple Micellar Water

Description:  “Water is natural and good for you, so Simple has decided to harness the power of water. Introducing the next generation of cleansing.

Simple’s unique triple-purified Micellar Cleansing Water enriched with minerals and multi-vitamins is especially designed to give the most effective cleanse, whilst hydrating the skin.

It actively works to attract make-up and impurities whilst unclogging pores and allowing your skin to breath.

Our Micellar Cleansing Water won’t leave skin feeling tight, but amazingly clean, refreshed and hydrated.

Designed for sensitive skin but loved by all skin types.”

(Source: Boots Website)

Size of bottle:  200ml

RRP:   £4.49

Link to Purchase:  http://www.boots.com/en/Simple-Kind-To-Skin-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-200ml_1657099/

Works Best For: Anyone with sensitive skin or prone to occasional breakouts.

Pros & Cons:  This seems a great brand for younger or troublesome skin – in fact my 10 year old daughter loves using this regularly as she has incredibly sensitive skin that flares up with most face soaps, yet Simple’s skin care range has never given her anything to grumble about. However for me (with non trouble-some pores) oddly enough I didn’t take to this as well as some of the others. Don’t get me wrong it done a great job at removing make-up effectively however there always felt like a slight residue on my face afterwards. Otherwise it was great to use, and I’d certainly recommend it to those looking a nifty cleanser for highly sensitive skin!

Rating: 3 Star

Brand:  Asda The Skin System Micellar Water

Asda Skin System Micellar Water

Description:  “Deeply cleanse dry and sensitive skin with Asda Skin Systems’ Micellar Cleansing Water. With added Chamomile Extract to gently and effectively cleanse without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. This mild and caring formula is specially formulated with Aloe Vera, Pro Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E to help nourish and care for skin. Hypoallergenic and Dermatologically Tested. Can be used on all skin types.”

(Source: Asda Website)

Size of bottle:  200ml

RRP:  £1.50

Link to Purchase:  http://groceries.asda.com/product/facial-cleansing/asda-the-skin-system-micellar-cleansing-water/910002014376

Works Best For: Hmm, tough skin that’s pretty resilient to sensitivity (?) Hard to recommend this brand as it was quite harsh after multiple uses.

Pros & Cons:  Didn’t like this at all gals. Firstly, another bottle that looks almost twinned with my Tesco nail varnish remover. Formula seems harsh and very ineffective at removing both my mascara and full coverage foundation, ended up using it as a second stage cleanser after washing my face with Olay facial scrub. Almost always left my skin feeling tight & sensitive in patches.Would probably be better used as a cleanser if just wearing BB cream or something a little lighter, such as nothing at all!

Rating:  0 Star

Brand:  Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

Garnier Micellar Water

Description: “A super efficient and gentle way to cleanse, remove makeup, soothe the feel of skin and hydrate in just one step – it’s not magic, it’s Garnier Micellar!

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water contains micelles which act like magnets, gently lifting away makeup and impurities from the skin, without the need to rub or rinse. The result?

Beautifully cleansed and refreshed feeling skin in an instant. The formula is suitable for the face, eye area and lips, has no perfume and comes in a generous 400ml size.”

(Source: Boots Website)

Size of bottle:  400ml

RRP: £4.99

Link to Purchase:  http://www.boots.com/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/

Works Best For: Pretty much everyone and anyone! Great on a multitude of skin types however if you’re prone to breakouts or have super sensitive skin opt for the Green Bottle version as it’s targeted for use with those issues.

Pros & Cons:  I absolutely LOVE the Garnier Cleansing water. It’s such good value at a huge 400ml bottle for under a £5, however be sure to look around as often either Tesco, Superdrug or Boots will have it on offer. They also have a tiny travel bottle size which is ideal for popping into your gym or travel bag! This water does an outstanding job of removing all types of make-up & daily general build up, leaving skin feeling totally refreshed without any tightness, dryness or typical sensitivity reaction. Such great value & love the pretty packaging too. No cons for this clear winner. Woo hoo!

Rating:  5 Star

Various Micellar Waters

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Are you a fan of Micellar Water? If so what’s your favourite brand? Or is it something your still yet to try… maybe you’re just not keen on the idea of using a cleansing water in replace of your daily skincare?

Whatever your thoughts I’d love to read them in the comments below so don’t forget to stop by and say a quick hello. Wishing you all an awesome weekend 🙂

Cheerio Chums…

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The Make Up Menu featuring Clinique…

Clinique Make Up Menu Main

As much as I love the pocket friendly price tags drug store beauty brands have to offer, every now and again it’s worth the treat to indulge in a little high end spend. Clinique is a brand that I’ve had just a few encounters with in the past but as I’m now the proud parent of this sleek & shiny face, eye & lip palette it’s given me a worthy opportunity to get acquainted once again with Clinique’s frequently raved about cosmetic range… before I invest in topping up my collection with their individual range of lipsticks, shadows and powders.

Okay, time to tour the palette ladies…
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Superpowder Double Face Powder in 02 Matte Beige: I have to admit, I’m not normally a fan of face powders but after applying my regular No 7 Beautifully Matte foundation the Double Face Powder was the perfect finishing touch to help set my makeup and keep it in place through the day. It has a beautiful velvety type texture, very soft and not at all drying. The ideal lightly dusted top layer to keep your face looking fresh and radiant.

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Soft Pressed Powder Blusher in 20 Mocha Pink: This is a deliciously roasted blush with a just a slight hint of pink to it. A beautiful shade when applied however it didn’t last as long as I hoped it would, of the entire palette range this was definitely the first to fade.
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Color Surge Eye Shadow Quad in 02 Spicy: Such a treat for the eyes… I simply adore these warm autumnal shades that are perfect for adding a soft bronzed glow to my eyes. Although these shades would work well with almost any eye colour I have to say I think it compliments blue or aqua eyes the best (lucky me!) These lasted for such a long time. On applying at 10 am that morning, the colour still looked fresh at 8:30 pm. Beautifully pigmented and long lasting – I’ll definitely be reinvesting in more of Clinque’s shadow range.

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Long Lasting Lipstick in 12 Blushing Nude (soft shine) : Being such a huge fan of my beloved MAC Brave I was shocked at how similar these two shades where in comparison of formula. Both are a warm rich nude tone with a buildable finish that’s not drying or quick to fade. If you’re a fan of MAC Brave, Patisserie or Faux then you’ll love this shade!

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Clinique make up menu

(finished look)

If truth be told there’s very little negative feedback I can give about the formula and longevity of Clinique’s products. Of course being fragrance free and allergy tested they’re ideal for those who have sensitive skin too. However one thing I will say regarding the design of the palette itself is that I’m not in any way a fan of the mini sponges and brush applicators included, if anything I’d prefer to pay a little extra for more product! In my humble opinion, anyone who’s spending  fact I don’t know anyone who regularly uses those miniature tools.

Clinique palette
On the whole I’m extremely impressed with the contents and how long lasting everything was (okay the blush was the only major stumbling block) Would I still recommend Clinique or reinvest? Most definitely. A palette is certainly the ideal gift for Christmas, Birthdays, Mothers Day etc. So if you’re on the hunt for something a little extra special for yourself or someone else why not visit the Clinique website and check out their range of stunning gift options.

 Cheerio chums…

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Girls Night In With Lush…

Lush BB Seaweed Review Belfast

Any ‘girls night in’ is usually guaranteed to be a hoot but when it includes my 10 year old daughter’s version of a mama-daughter pamper-party it’s sure to include mess, giggles, plenty of ridiculous selfies (as you can see from below) and of course a face masks!

Combining a few fun hours with my mini bestie (& testing out new beauty products) is such a treat for relaxing on those fabulous Friday nights that mark the end of a busy week. Of course to add to the excitement, it was my debut testing of the Lush BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask. How exciting gals! 😀

Fancy finding out more? Then let’s get started…

me n ems

On what was my third visit to the very lively Lush Belfast store I was warmly welcomed by yet another cheery customer advisor who just so happened to be a mini guru on skin care. Unfortunately I couldn’t catch her name or I’d have given her a quick shout out, however she was so incredibly helpful & knowledgeable of the products on offer. I have to admit Lush is one of the very few shops I consistently depart from feeling so much cheerier than when I go in . Whatever magical formula they use to select and educate their staff it works wonders – they’re all so darn happy! Then again, who wouldn’t be skipping to work if it looked anything like this?…

 Lush Display

(Lush Oxford Street Display)

After a 10 minute chat with my Lush face mask guru it was determined that I was a BB Seaweed kinda girl. Now I have to admit ladies, when the assistant first introduced me to the little pot of greyish coloured goop it most definitely wasn’t love at first sight… a concoction of British coastal seaweed smeared all over my face? Hmmm. Bang goes my dream of a delightfully tropical scented fruity fusion from some far flung corner of the Carribean *sigh* HOWEVER, being a newbie (and in the supple hands of an expert) I thought I’d take her word for it and wisely invest…  whilst all the time secretly hoping it was every bit as good as what she claimed it would be!

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What Lush Say about the BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask: 

A calming fresh face mask with fresh seaweed, ground almonds, rose absolute and aloe vera to soothe and soften the skin. We also use rosemary oil for its regenerative qualities, kaolin to remove any excess dirt or oil, and millet flakes to gently exfoliate away dead skin as you scrub it off. To use, smooth a generous layer of this mask onto your face and leave for 10 to 15 minutes.

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First things first: like any of the Lush Fresh Face Mask range it’s essential you keep these little pots refrigerated. You’ll also notice a ‘Use By’ date labelled on the tub, so do ensure you use it up before that date. Because it’s stored in such a cool climate, applying the mask initially feels intensely cold on the skin and although I’m not a fan of teeth chattering environments this feels so incredibly soothing and not at all uncomfortable… if anything I wanted it to stay as cool as possible be as my skin seemed to really enjoy the cold sensation.

 Lush BB Seaweed review 2

In terms of aroma, thankfully it doesn’t smell anything like the old pile of seaweed I imagined it to honk off. It’s most definitely not an offensive smell but is in fact quite a distinctive clay based aroma. Considering that I only kept it on for 10-15 minutes it really wasn’t an issue… even for someone as fussy about fragrances as I am! However if you are quite sensitive to smells I’d recommend dabbing a little flavoured lip balm just at the base of your nostrils to help distract from the sea/clay mineral scent!

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The consistency of the product is naturally quite thick. As it contains chunks of seaweed it does feel a little lumpy when smearing the initial layer on, however I’d highly recommend applying with a clean spatula. It’ll certainly spare your hands from getting smothered & stops any transference of bacteria from hands to tub or face – especially as there’s enough product for multiple uses!

 Lush BB Seaweed Review

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As the minutes ticked by, I could feel the product begin to set. That beautiful ice cold sharpness slowly began to fade as the magic ingredients worked their magic on my weary pores. It’s not often I (if ever) I’ve felt a mask actively working on my skin, but I could really feel my skin absorbing the goodness of the minerals. After 15 gorgeous relaxing minutes, I dully plodded my way to the bathroom to reluctantly wash my seaweed covered face clean. The Lush assistant also recommended that I washed it off using small massaging circular motions to ensure an extra deep clean – wow, she wasn’t wrong as it felt amazing.

After dabbing my face dry with a towel & inspecting the results in the mirror I was in shock… gone was my blotchy red patches that had looked tired and worn-out less than 20 minutes earlier. Hello velvety soft smooth skin that had an even tone & glorious fresh glow. It actually looked how skin SHOULD look… healthy.

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I’ve already recommended the Lush BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask to quite a few of my friends who are now converted fans of it. Considering I’d probably get 3 or 4 uses out of this little tub, £6.50 is exceptionally good quality for such impressive results. It may seem small but it definitely packs a surprising punch in terms of how much sea-weedy goodness it holds.

Realistically this has to take the crown for the most impressive face mask I’ve used to date. If you haven’t tried it then don’t resist temptation, give yourself a treat you will not regret it one bit!

*click here* to check out the range of face masks & other goodies via the Lush UK website.

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Have you tried the Lush Fresh Face Mask range? What’s your favourite beauty essentials for a girly night in? Whatever your thoughts do let me know in the comments below! As always have a super weekend – we surely will as Emma celebrates her 10th Birthday on Sunday *woo hoo* Bring on pressies, cards & cake gallore!

Cheerio chums…

Karen signature

(and Emma xo) 🙂

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The Make-Up Menu: Peach Sherbet

The Make Up Menu Peach Sherbet

After last Fridays post, The Must-Have Eye-Shadow Trio, quite a few of you lovely ladies were rather intrigued about the pigmentation & quality of these affordable mini compacts. Not being one to turn down an opportunity to get dolled up (and as I’m rocking the warm peach sherbet tones right now) what better excuse to create a quick look for this weeks Make-Up Menu? Heck, you might even take some inspiration by re-creating this warm summery look over the weekend too. Why not!

Okay, so here’s the menu gals…

Face

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Nivea Intense Moisturising Day Cream – I use a small amount of this intense moisturising cream before applying any cosmetics to my skin as it helps keeps my face hydrated and make-up lasting longer. Don’t forget to leave it absorb into the skin before layering on Foundation etc!

Boots No 7 Beautifully Matte – My current go-to foundation. This literally knocks the spots clean off all others I’ve tried over this last few months… yep, I’ve finally found ‘The One’ gals! *wipes away tears of joy* Affordable, flawless & long lasting. Perfection in a pump.

Soap & Glory Kickass Concealer – Not by any means a full coverage concealer, however what it does do is very lightly cover blemishes and adds a little dewiness to the complexion. Initially I wasn’t entirely sure if I’d repurchase it again but now I’m really beginning to like it a lot!

Rimmel Sun Shimmer Bronzer – My ultimate bronzer. Wanna find out more about it? Then *click here* to feast your eyes upon my recent review.

Soap & Glory Peach Party – There’s always that one item in your make-up collection that you use sparingly because it’s just so darn beautiful & you don’t want it to end… and that’s exactly how I feel about this blush. If you’re on the lookout for something to add a soft peachy glow to your cheeks then look no further, it’s beautiful.

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Eyes

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MUA Eye-shadow primer – Keeping it in the MUA family today ladies. I’ll admit I’ve read mixed reviews about this eye-shadow primer but I have to say it’s doing an outstanding job for me; great for an everyday pocket-savvy primer.

MUA Under-eye Concealer – A new addition to my collection (after hunting high & low for the L’Oreal Lumi wand without success) Once again MUA have *really* impressed me… this noticeably brightens up my under eye area & helps luminate my cheek bones for a bright & dewy look.

MUA Chocolate Box – What a gorgeous trio of warm Indian Summer type colours. Peaches, earth tones, golds, red, brows & purples all seem to emulate seamlessly from these three stunning shades once blended.

Max Factor Mascara – So far it’s impressive, I’m keeping my lashes firmly crossed that the formula doesn’t clump too early. The result to date has been long luscious lashes, the brush seems a little clumsier yet it really gets into those lash roots.

Soap & Glory Archery Pencil – Known as the dupe for Anastasia Beverley Hills Brow Wiz. I am SO impressed with this handy little roll up pencil. No sharpening required, just quick & easy brows ‘on fleek’ ladies 😉

Rimmel Glam Eyes Professional Liquid Liner –  My go to liquid liner for those hard to master cat flicks. The brush is incredibly precise & the formula is the perfect creamy consistency for jet black coverage.

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Lips

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Rimmel London 077 Asia – I’ve literally been in love with this shade from the first time it glided over my lips at the tender age of 13! Almost 20 years later & it’s still one of my all time favourite Rimmel lippies. Rich, creamy & long lasting – what’s not to love?

Tanya Burr, Picnic In The Park – Such a pretty pink that adds the perfect layer of blush-tinted gloss to any pout. Long lasting & not overly sticky, I’ll definitely be checking out some more of her range gloss range! Have you got a favourite?

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Tools

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Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge – A complete game changer when it comes to applying makeup. If you’re craving an airbrushed finish then look no further, this little egg shaped sponge is photoshop for your foundation. Yes, it really is!

Real Techiques Cheek Brush – One of my favourite blushes, especially for contouring the hollow of my cheek bones with a skimming of bronzer or adding a pop of blush to the apples. So versatile!

Barry M Shadow Brush – Such a handy little shadow companion for adding the darker shades on the outer crease to give some depth and definition.

Lamora Blender Brush – Blends everything together seamlessly. Check out my post on this set of bargain beauty brushes, such a great affordable find!

Superdrug Retractable Lip Brush –  Essential for smoothing out your lippy and creating a sharp lined effect edge.

Eyelash Curlers – Nothing fancy about this little pair… does a great job at curling the lashes prior to mascara application. Simples.

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Finished look

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There you have it ladies, this week’s Make-Up Menu based around Peach Sherbet tones. I’m such a huge fan of these warm peachy-pink & earthy colours, they never fail to brighten up my pale complexion. Have you tried any of the products above? What’s your favourite make-up look at the moment?

Cheerio Chums…

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The Summer Skin Care Edit…

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Hey Beauty Buddies…

I don’t know about you lovely lot, but here at Confetti & Curves HQ’s Friday night IS pamper night! Oh yes, it’s that delicious little evening where I turn off all technology, run myself a delectable bath filled to the brim with exquisite bubbles & simply immerse myself in aromatic goodness for an hour – surrounded by Yankee candles, glossy mags & a WHOLE host of beauty goodies of course 😉 However as it’s been so ridiculously long since I’ve updated what fabulous little lotions & potions I’ve been loving lately and now summer is in full swing, what better time to share my the contents of my cosmetic shelves with you guys! Sitting comfy? Then let’s get started…

Cleanse

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Olay Essentials Refreshing Cleanser: I can literally feel my pores happy-dancing with delight when I pop the lid on this scent-sational tube of  refreshing facial cleanser. Even sensitive skin (such as mine) doesn’t remotely feel hot, tight or in any way aggitated by this gentle night time cleanser.

Nivea Gentle Effect Eye Make-Up Remover: Although I’m not a huge wearer of waterproof mascara, I still like to dress my lids in lashings of professional liner, long-lasting primer & my beloved Urban Decay NAKED shadows. Known for their durability, my eye products are easily removed with this gentle eye cleansing lotion. Just don’t forget to shake the formula well before applying to a clean cotton pad!

Boots Botanics 3 in 1 Micellar Water: I’ve only just started using this particular brand of Micellar water but so far it’s been such a treat to use. Within a few swipes I’m saying cheerio to tired looking make-up & hello to a fresh new face.

Nivea Refreshing Toner: I’ve always under estimated the power of a great toner until I made it an essential step in my daily skin care routine last year. This particular one from Nivea has such a delicate fresh scent coupled by an incredibly soothing feel on the skin. I’m always amazed at the residue and nasties a good toner manages to pull out from the pores – even after cleansing well beforehand!

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Hydrate

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Derma Vio Coconut Body Butter: Nothing SCREAMS summer than a waft of coconut infused in a rich body butter & this one from Derma Vio is rich, moist, hydrating & leaves your skin feeling silky smooth.

Garnier Moisture Restore Night Recovery Gel Cream: Nothing to date has hydrated my face as much as this little pot of lilac colour wonder potion. The intense re-hydration formula is like a looooong nightime cocktail for my skin. If you’re mad into scents you’ll adore the sweet aroma of this too = heaven in a little purple pot.

Nivea Rich Moisturising Day Cream: Of course it’s not just during beauty sleep that skin should be treated to a moisture rich lotion, this day cream from Nivea works wonders under my foundation to ensure I maintain a dewy, fresh complexion throughout the day. It’s perfect for dried out pores in need of some serious pampering.

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Body

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Dove Go Fresh Deodorant with Cucumber Extract: Words cannot fully describe how much I ADORE this pocket-friendly roll on. The smell is intensely refreshing and lasts for hours on end. I’ve had countless compliments on what delicious perfume I’m wearing when in actual fact it’s this savvy little underarm secret.

Original Source Tropical Pineapple Shower Gel: If your goal in life is to departing from a misty shower smelling exactly like a pineapple lolly then congratulations – you’ve just achieved it with this little bottle of fruity goodness. Probably one of the most intensely mouth watering shower gels that’s ever graced my shower-shelf. The only draw back is trying NOT to taste the damn stuff!

Avon Naturals Pink Daisy & Sicilian Lemon Body Spritz: Considering I cough, wheeze & splutter like a vintage tractor when it comes to canned deodorants or body sprays I tend to stay well clear of investing in them, however this beautiful range from Avon is perfect for a quick refreshing spritz throughout the day. Okay, it’s doesn’t last anywhere near as long as most canned body sprays but it does smell incredibly beautiful & all without filling your lungs with powdery fume filled canned air.

Garnier Summer Body Moisturising Lotion: Yet another new addition to my beauty shelf! This. Smells. INCREDIBLE. Okay it might be a little bit on the fruity/sweet side for some but in my humble opinion it smells a WHOLE lot better than the nasty biscuity smell of other daily gradual-tan moisturisers. It dries super fast, leaves your skin feeling baby soft & at the pocket-friendly price of under £5 you can’t go wrong. If you haven’t gotten your mits on a bottle already then be quick ladies! Looks like we have a summer best-seller with this one 😉

Lips

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Balmi Raspberry Lip Balm: Who doesn’t love a cute little cube of raspberry goodness? Seemingly a mini dupe for an EOS style balms this perfect little pot of pout-putty leaves lips feeling smooth, supple & ready for summer. With Vitamin E, Shea butter, Jojoba oil, SPF 15 & UVA protection it’s all you need in a balm. Pick up a range of delicious flavours online or in your local Boots store NOW.

Lush Bubblegum Lip Scrub: It ‘just’ may very well be a little pot of fruity flavoured sugar but my-oh-my how I love scrubbing my lips with this gorgeous little pot from Lush. The smell, the taste, the refreshing feel…. if you haven’t tried it already then bump that bad boy to the top of your wish list. Your lips will love you for it gals!

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What’s YOUR favourite skin care goodies this summer? Have you uncovered any great drug store finds OR are you itching to give any of the above a test run? Whatever your thoughts do let me know in the comments below – we do adore a juicy beauty chatter here on Confetti & Curves.

Wishing y’all a fabulous Friday & happy weekend…

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