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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Broken Nails, Split Ends & 30 Day Mascara! Random Beauty haul….

It feels like an age since I last topped up my shelves with a few little random lotions & potions, however over the past week or so I’ve been spotting a few bargains here and there that have caught my attention enough for me to part with my hard earned cash… along with repurchasing up a few beauty essentials that I’ve repeatedly fallen in love with.

I’ve opted for some interesting little notions that have been lining the shelves of my local drug store and discount store, it’s amazing some of the finds you pick up for such great prices when you really aren’t expecting it! In fact, pretty much all of my staple essentials, as well as newbies, were under £5  – just goes to show you really don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some great cosmetic treats gals!

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Have you treated yourself to any exciting new finds over the past few weeks? Makeup, skincare, haircare… or have you tried any of the products featured in today’s Random Beauty Haul? Whatever your thought’s I’d love to read about it in the comments below.

Don’t forget, you can pop over and subscribe to the Confetti & Curves YouTube channel by *clicking here* so you don’t miss any future uploads! So why not get comfy and procrastinate for ten minutes as we chatter over what’s in my shopping bag 🙂

Cheerio chums…

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The Perfect Tan?

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Hey Beauty Buddies,

So as most of you already know, this summer I’ve been on the hunt for a perfect sun-kissed glow. Considering that our sunny skies have been very hit or miss this season, I’ve been trying an assortment of goodies from high end to bargain buys… so when the gorgeous PR team behind Lauren Goodger’s tanning range, Lauren’s Way, got in touch to ask if I would like the opportunity to try out a few of Lauren’s products I jumped at the chance. Could this really be the end of my search for achieving the perfectly bronzed body? Grab your cuppa, get comfy & let’s find out…

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Firstly, let’s see what ‘Team Lauren’s Way’ have to say:

LAUREN GOODGER - Beauty shot

The grey skies and rainy days which so often feature in our summers – especially this one! – can leave us longing for sunshine, while summer fashion tends to mean exposed skin; but after months of grey skies, a natural tan to complement summer style can be difficult to come by. Enter tan queen and TOWIE star Lauren Goodger, who has now launched her LW Tan range here in Ireland//Northern Ireland – and beauty aficionados are loving the shades, the smooth finish and the scent of her affordable but effective product range.

The team at LW TAN has developed a shade for everyone with a go-to guide for first timers and experienced tanners alike. Many people are often confused over which shade is best suited to their skin tone, but Lauren explains:

“Our LW Medium range is perfect for first-time tanners or fair skin. If you’re nervous about trying tanning, then this is the shade for you. Products in our Medium range include: MEDIUM BRONZING LOTION; MEDIUM BRONZING MOUSSE; INSTANT WASH OFF GLOW and GRADUAL TAN.

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“Our LW Dark range is perfect for medium/dark skin tones as this will leave you with an instant, bronzed glow – adding glamour to any look. We carry products such as DARK BRONZING LOTION and DARK GLAM TAN in this range. Not forgetting our LW MAN TAN too.

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“Our LW ‘Darker Than Dark’ range is ideal for olive/dark skin tones, providing instant colour and leaving a deep, bronzed, intense colour after just one application. Our products in this range include DARKER THAN DARK BRONZING LOTION; BRONZING MOUSSE and DARKER THAN DARK GLAM TAN.

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“Our NEW RAPID LW Solution 60 range is suitable for all skin tones, the light and hydrating solution leaves a holiday looking tan that develops within only 1-3 hours! No more waiting 8 hours for that luscious, luxurious tan you’ve always wanted. Available in both SOLUTION 60 BRONZING SPRAY and MOUSSE, Solution 60 is paraben free and specially formulated with tanning agent dihydroxyacetone to speed up the tanning process providing flawless coverage and a sun-kissed colour which is suitable for all skin tones and which lasts up to five days.

“Like all our products, it is infused with citrus and fruit extracts for a gorgeously fresh aroma. It’s the perfect tan for last minute parties and those who don’t have the time to wait for their tan to develop.”

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Lauren also advises that for a streak-free application with all tan products, the LW BODY POLISH should be used prior to application to buff away dead skin. The tan products should ideally be applied with a LW TANNING MITT, and to maintain a golden and fresh colour, the LW TAN ENHANCING MOISTURISER can also be massaged into the skin daily. All LW products are long-lasting, luxuriously hydrating as well as being quick and easy to apply, plus the colour guide allows you to see exactly where you are applying it. Simple!

The Review

It’s quite an extensive range wouldn’t you say? Of course considering that my skin is bordering on translucent, I’m always a teeny bit apprehensive that I’ll end up looking obvious, blotchy and totally unnatural. However since I was sampling the Laurens Way  Solution 60 Mousse I’d have to wait at least an hour to see the final results after rinsing off. So using a clean tanning mitt & a whole lotta faith I got to work:

LW collage

I’ll admit the colour didn’t necessarily calm my nerves – if anything when I applied it I was convinced that it was far too dark but holding out hope I left it for a full hour as the guidelines recommend. On rinsing the result was INCREDIBLE. No nasty biscuit smell, no streaks, no lines, no obvious looking unsightly patches – just a beautiful radiant glow. My skin feels super soft with a hint of a sweet citrus smelling aroma. I am hooked.

Awaking the next morning the tan hadn’t faded, streaked or in any way looked patchy – just that same beautiful glow. I also noticed that it blended in beautifully over my hands… an area that always seems to be the first obvious sign of false tanning. In this instance there was no obvious lines or splodges – just an even sun kissed colour.

Of course the ultimate question is: would I re-purchase or recommend the Laurens Way Solution 60 Mousse? Hmm, lets look at the evidence before making a final decision…

Cons

A little higher priced than other ranges at £19.95 per bottle.

For those with little patience (or on a busy schedule) waiting (at least) an hour for the tan to develop is obviously more lengthy than an instant option. But ladies… it’s WELL worth the wait as the results are amazing.

Pros

Super easy to apply.

Very quick drying.

The citrus scent is beautiful.

The result is completely controllable… the longer you leave it the deeper it gets.

No dry patches, nasty streaks or obvious blotches – just a smooth natural glow.

Skin feels super soft.

Incredibly natural looking – even for the fairest of skin tones.

Totally mess free & easy to apply.

Like I said above, it may be a tad more pricey but rest assured it’s worth every penny for the finish & condition it leaves your skin – plus it’s a sizeable 150 ml bottle & a little goes a loooong way!

& not surprisingly…

It’s a finalist in the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2015!

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So the answer to the above question is a resounding YES, I’ll most certainly be highly recommending the Lauren’s Way Solution 60 Mousse and will definitely re-purchase. I’ve finally found a tanning solution that actually works for my skin and ticks all my major wants in a tanning solution.

Lauren, I was running out of hope in finding a natural, build-able tan that would work with my pale complexion without that nasty biscuit smell… you’ve created a winner that even us pale beauties can enjoy. I love it!

Check out the Lauren’s Way website for more info on all the range & how to purchase 🙂

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Have you tried anything form the Laurens Way range? What’s your thoughts on tanning lotions or mousses? I love to read your feedback in the comments below so don’t forget to stop by and say a quick hello!

Have a great weekend – 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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Buying A Beauty Box?

Buying a beauty box

Hey Beauty Buddies

I don’t know about you, but finding nooks, crannies, gadgets and bags to store all beauty bits in is always a challenge for me as I seem to be consistently outgrowing whatever little cosmetic carriers I invest in. Makeup bags are great but I’ve noticed that a lot of them are of limited size and can often get battered, bruised and zip torn. Determined to find something a little sturdier to stash my beauty belongings in, my ever empathic hubby thought I’d benefit from a Beauty Box. Let’s see if his creative spending holds up to the idea….

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The Beauty Box

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Made of sturdy aluminium this sizeable cosmetic carrier was bought from www.beauty-boxes.com. If you haven’t visited the site yet, it’s an online store selling a range of high quality beauty boxes, trolley’s, cases, makeup brushes & accessories… and when I say high quality, I really do mean it. Comparing this box to a few smaller similar styles I’ve had in past years it’s pretty much leagues ahead in the reliability stakes.

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Who’s it for?

Ideally, this would be the perfect beginners case for a budding MUA, a professional that carries a limited amount of beauty/hair products or someone who travels considerably and wants to keep their lotions and potions safe from being unnecessarily battered in transit. Admittedly I’m not any of those three but it does make a great case if you like to keep a select amount of regular use items in the one handy dandy place!

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The Opposition?

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Okay, so here’s the current opposition… my pretty little Ikea cosmetic bag that I adore in every shape, way and fashion. It’s strong, has a metal frame that stays open when you’re vigourisly plundering through the contents. Has a zip that’s tough as nails, is under £5 (or somewhere around that region) and *most importantly* it’s the most gorgeous shade of raspberry. Yes, that’s right ladies – not pink, raspberry 😉 If you wanna take a trip down memory lane and check out a 2014 post of me rambling about it in all it’s glory just *click here* to be digitally redirected!

One of the reasons I l-o-v-e this makeup bag is simply because of the ability to contain everything in one roomy place and (unlike other bags I’ve used in the past) doesn’t faint into a pathetic mass of material on opening. I’ll admit, I had my doubts before transferring everything over to the Beauty Box if it would all fit, but ever the optimist I kept hopefull it wouldn’t end in a finger pointing rage of fury at the chubbiness of my Clinique Chubby Stick or saucer sized Rimmel Sun Shimmer compact. After all beauty comes in all shapes and sizes… isn’t that right ladies? 😉

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Lets Talk Organisation…

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Setting everything out before my very eyes put into context the vastness of products my make-up bag has been hoarding. This of course was the perfect opportunity for a damn good clear out & wipe down (hence the baby wipes)

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Everything slotted neatly into place and looked great once it was finished. One handy little advantage of the beauty box is that it eliminates the mass of mess that often accumulates at the bottom of a makeup bag as everything is divided into small compartments which saves times rummaging around for the smaller items such as liquid liner or stubby little lip pencils. One glance and you know where it’s at. However a slight drawback is that the compartments aren’t overly big and they can’t be altered to fit, which in my humble opinion is a much overlooked design drawback. The top row of smaller individual ones may be ideal for tipping a mass of bobby pins into on a whim, but area is limited for lippies and most certainly larger glosses; and with me being a gloss-hoarder it won’t be long before I’m reaching maximum capacity with this lot (and to be fair my stash doesn’t exactly rival that of Carli Bybel) just *click here* to check out her video & you’ll understand why this gal needs an entire room to house her obsession with make-up!!

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Overall Verdict:

All in all the Beauty Box is a great way to organise a small collection of beauty essentials especially if your collection isn’t overly extensive or if you’re on the road and need a sturdy little companion to travel along with. Okay, the compartments aren’t huge but there are other shapes and sizes available if you do decide to upgrade to something a little roomier. Alternatively you could just buy a portable pink potting shed and be done with the hassle of finding extra space, genius huh?

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For me this cute little case means no more messy makeup bag, no digging through masses of powder dusted mascara tubes or crumbling eyeshadow palettes… just mess free makeup at a glance!

Do you have a beauty box or is it something you’re thinking of investing in? What’s your favourite makeup storage solution? Whatever your thoughts I’d love to read them in the comments below so do stop by and say a quick hello!

Cheerio chums…

 Karen signature