Tag: Skin Care

My Look Fantastic Black Friday Must Haves & Gift Guide

You’re probably sick of hearing about Black Friday already and if I’m honest, I couldn’t think of anything worse than heading to the high street and getting caught up in the manic bustle that is Black Friday…However I have come to realise that this can actually be the perfect time to pick up a few of those Christmas gifts that you may be after and on the beauty side of things, there are lots of great offers to be had. That being said, regardless of the occasion, you know I like any shopping I do to be well thought out and so I have put together a little bit of Christmas gift guide, featuring a round up of 5 Lookfantastic Black Friday offers, that could make great gifts for some of the special ladies in your life this Christmas…

For Mum

Eve Lom has got to be one of my top luxury skincare brands. I’ve already gushed over their cleanser here on my blog in the past and now I’m excited to introduce these new masks into my routine. I say ‘into my routine’, more like ‘into my special occasion skincare routine’, because I must admit these are on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, if you’re someone/or know someone who loves to indulge in luxury skincare, then this could be just the perfect time to nab the Eve Lom White Brightening Mask on a Black Friday offer. I used my first one in preparation for a shoot the night before, and aide from finding the look of the sheet mask hilarious on first application (just google it if you don’t know what I mean), I actually loved how soft, supple and fresh it left my skin. I see this one being a great gift for the Mother or any special lady in your life who deserves an extra special pamper.

For Sis

You should already know/have guessed by now that I love skincare products and anything that can aid with helping/maintaining good skin, I’m all for. So it’s no surprise that I’m super excited about this little gadget, the Foreo Luna Mini. It works as a great bacteria free way to cleanse the skin, whilst the tiny pulsating rubber touch points help to remove dirt and oil and keep pores clean. There are no batteries required as it comes with a wire to charge it up and it has a long life span due to the fact that it’s all rubber and it requires no replacements bristles or anything like that. If you have a sister who is into her skincare, or maybe just needs a convenient way to simplify her routine, then this could be a great one for her!

For the Bestie

Two brands that I love for makeup brushes and tools are Real Techniques and Look Good Feel Better. I think two of my most used makeup tools are probably a beauty sponge and a contour brush. I’ve used a LGFB Sculpting Sponge for quite some time and it’s so convenient because not only does the sponge itself help effortlessly blend foundation onto the skin, leaving it looking even and natural, but the shape is also great for using on different parts of the face. And this sponge isn’t a one trick pony because once my foundation is applied, I like to use the curved tip for applying concealer under my eyes and then the pointed end for applying liquid highlighter. It’s also super easy to clean and once it’s dry it simply bounces back to it’s usual shape…And then there’s the contour brush and this isn’t just any contour brush, because just look how beautiful it is! Not only the perfect gift because Real Techniques are actually renowned for their great quality brushes (I’ve owned several) but also because this may be the prettiest brush I’ve seen…and who doesn’t like practical and pretty!

For You

Let’s face it, after shopping for all the main ladies in your life, it would be rude to not treat yourself to a little something too!…Illamasqua has long been one of my favourite makeup brands. There’s not a single night out when at least one Illamasqua product doesn’t make it onto my face. They know how to do strong pigments and fierce colours…speaking of fierce colours, can we please take a moment of appreciation for the gorgeous red shade in this eyeshadow palette! I’ve actually been on the look out for a shade like this for some time and I should have known that Illamasqua would be the brand to do it. These eyeshadows are perfect for creating smokey eye looks and whether it’s for a friend, or just for yourself, it’s certainly a perfect party palette.

So there you have it, a round up of some of my favourite Black Friday Lookfantastic Christmas Gift ideas! And one last thing, you can get a huge 20% off some of the Black Friday promotions over on Lookfantastic, using the code: LFBLACK.

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

November 25, 2016
Skin Refreshments

Two of my newest skincare additions are the Turbliss Bioactive Firming and Toning Face Mask and Bioactive Peat Toner. I’ve been using these two products for nearly two months now and I’m really pleased with them both.

I was a little wary of the face mask at first. I’d been warned that it could cause redding to the skin and as someone who does not tend to suffer from sensitive skin, I was surprised to find that it left my skin a little tingly and red after my first time using it. This did quickly subside however and it wasn’t until my second time using it that I discovered my first time discomfort was due to the fact that I’d left the mask on too long and let it start to dry on my skin – Which I’d been warned, not to do! So, silly me learnt the hard way, but since then when using the mask, I’ve applied it to damp skin and kept it moist by spiritzing it with a little bit of the Peat Toner.

This mask really does leave my skin feeling firmer and looking refreshed. It still tingles a little but in a good way, almost like the blood is circulating through my face (if that makes any sense). Afterwards I’m left with a more radiant complextion and plumper looking skin.

Aside from being a great counterpart to when I’m using the face mask, the Peat Toner is also great at refreshing my skin and helps to close up pores after washing and cleansing the face. I also like spraying this on my skin just before applying makeup to add moisture and help my foundation glide on.

I love that this toner comes in a spray bottle because it makes it super quick and easy to use, without having to worry about using cotton pads.

I’m currently loving how both of these products are helping to refresh my skin. Have you tried anything from the Turbliss range?

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

March 11, 2016
A Luxury Skincare Routine To Rehydrate & Rejuvenate

If there’s one time of the year when my skin needs extra TLC, it’s now. After the busy festive period my skin is left looking and feeling fatigued and the cold winter weather only makes matters worse. So now is the time when I really like to up my skincare regime and go into full hydration mode in order to help rejuvenate my skin.

Eve Lom Morning Time Cleanser

I’ve mentioned this Eve Lom Morning time cleanser on more than one occasion now and it has fast become one of my favourite skincare products. As the name implies, it is a cleanser that you apply first thing in the morning. It really does help to wake up my skin in the morning and after rinsing it off, the cleansing oils leave my face feeling so soft as well as looking brighter and refreshed.

Renu Lip And Eye Active Lift

This eye cream, although geared more towards mature skin, also works wonders on fatigued skin too. It shows I lead a happy life because I’ve noticed my smile lines becoming more prominent as of late (even when I’m not smiling). It’s not that this is something I’m too bothered about, but I was surprised to see the plumping effect from this cream and that my smile lines appear reduced. It also feels so nice around the eyes and really helps to hydrate and awaken tired looking puffy eyes.

Lancôme Génifique Crème Youth Activating Day Cream

This Lancôme Génifique Crème Youth Activating Day Cream has a sort of gel to cream type feel when I apply it to my skin but it instantly works to help make it feel smooth and hydrated. I love the fact that it adds hydration to my skin and leaves it feeling moisturised without feeling oily. It works as a great base under makeup and leaves my skin feeling soft and plump.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II

Using the pipet, it’s easy to apply just a few drops of this products to the fingertips and then rub it into the face and neck. Overnight this stuff really does work well to help hydrate my skin and leave it feeling soft and looking rejuvenated. I feel that it helps to make my skin appear more radiant when it can often look quite dull around this time of year.

It’s fair to say that these products are working wonders at keeping my skin hydrated and radiant, which is just what it needs during the winter period.

What is your favourite product to help rehydrate and rejuvenate your skin around this time of year?

Samio x

You can shop the items in this post and more here.

Check out my current nourishing night cream here.

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

January 6, 2016
One Nourishing Night Cream To Rule Them All

My night time skincare routine has significantly upped it’s game these past several months, with a lot of focus going on serums and overnight masks, but it’s been a while since I introduced a new night cream into my routine.

The Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream not only sounds delicious (for the face not for consumption of course), but it’s also proven to have anti-ageing benefits, or as they put it, it’s ‘scientifically shown to stimulate synthesis of collagen production in human cells by up to 92%’ and it does all this whilst also being vegan friendly.

So what’s not to love about this product… Well, nothing actually. It’s very creamy and really does feel super nourishing on the skin. It comes in a cute little glass jar and has a sort of herbal smell which I personally really like.

As I very quickly discovered, only a small amount of the nourishing night cream is needed on each application, as it really is a very creamy product which spreads easily. I found that when applying too much of the cream, my skin was left feeling a little bit greasy. After mastering the application I realised I only need one to two pea sized amounts to cover my neck and face. I’ve found it’s just the right amount and it leaves my skin feeling instantly hydrated. The real magic however works over night as all the natural oils and goodness soak into the skin.

This Antipodes night cream really does leave my skin feeling plump, hydrated and just as it says, nourished.

For me this isn’t an every night cream but for when I need that extra creamy nourishing goodness for my skin, I immediately reach for this jar. This night cream is suitable for all types of skin but I’d definitely recommend it if you have particularly dry skin or if like me, you have combination skin that needs a little extra nourishment from time to time. I’m certainly a new fan of the Antipodes Nourishing Night Cream as it leaves my skin feeling amazing.

Have you tried any of the Antipodes products?

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

January 3, 2016
Lookfantastic Beauty Box – Christmas Edition

Christmas time is here and so is the Lookfantastic Christmas Edition Beauty Box…

Eylure Lashes

Fist up in this month’s Beauty Box are these super glam Dramatic Eylure false eyelashes. I have really started to love using this brand recently. Although I don’t wear false eyelashes often, if I’ve got a special occasion or big night out planned, I do like to feel extra fabulous by putting on a pair of Eylure lashes to complete my look. These are probably the most dramatic style I am yet to own but as it is the festive season and all, it could be the perfect time to rock them.

Eve Lom Morning Time Cleanser

I mentioned this product in my Black Friday blog post and I am actually so happy that I now have a second one because I have been loving this stuff! I never thought I’d be so impressed by a morning time cleanser (to be honest I originally thought – what even is that!?) but I have to say this stuff feels amazing on my skin. I apply it when I first wake up and leave it on whilst I brush my teeth, then when I get in the shower I rinse it off and it instantly helps to wake up my skin and leaves it feeling smooth, soft and refreshed.

CODAGE Serum N.03 Radiance and Energy

I recently discovered this brand earlier this year, after trying out one of their face scrubs, which I have been loving. I’m still quite new to this serum but after having used it a few times I can say that it feels really nice on my skin and leaves it feeling really smooth and moisturised.

Wet Brush Squirts

I probably wont attempt to use this brush as I’ve tried something similar before and I doubt this will be appropriate for my hair. However if you have looser curls or wavy to straight hair, then this brush would probably be more suited to you. It has super flexible soft tips which claim to detangle hair with ease and can be used on wet or dry hair.

Molton Brown Japanese Orange Body Wash

I love Molton Brown bath products, they always remind me of fancy hotels and their scents are always delicious. This one is no exception and I absolutely love the Japanese Orange body wash scent.

Lord & Berry Pailettes Eye Pencil Sparkle Black

I have wanted to try this makeup brand for so long but I often find it hard to take the plunge and buy makeup products I’m not familiar with, especially when I already have so many favourites. I do really like this eye pencil though; It glides on with ease and comes out bold. It’s a black liner but this one is ‘sparkle black’ and so it has sparkles in it! It’s certainly ideal for the party season and I can’t wait to create a smoky eye look with this liner.

This month’s Lookfantastic Beauty Box has been a good one and it’s certainly got me in the mood for the festive season. In fact I’ve been really impressed with all of the Beauty Boxes which I’ve received so far, as I’ve discoed so many different beauty brands which I now love. I’d definitely recommend the Lookfantastic Beauty Box. It’s an affordable way to try out a great selection of high end products each month and it could even make an excellent Christmas gift for someone who likes this sort of thing too!

You can subscribe to the Lookfantastic Beauty Box here.

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

December 9, 2015
Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Resurfacer Serum

For the past month I’ve been using the Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Resurfacer serum. I have to say I was intrigued by the name of this product but at the same time thought it was a little bit silly; Laser-free either implies that other serums contain lasers, which we know not to be true, or that it has the same results as some sort of cosmetic procedure, which I’m sure we all know is highly unlikely. I was also quite curious as to what the ‘Dragon’s blood complex’ that it contains was. Either way I was keen to see its results of this product and so I began to work the serum into my daily skincare routine morning and night.

After the first pump of this serum, I was able to see why they call the stuff in it ‘dragons blood’, as the serum does look somewhat like blood (although I cannot confirm the blood colouring of mythical creatures). It turns out that this stuff comes from a tree in the Amazon and it apparently reduces the appearance of inflammation and helps accelerate repair.

This serum is a little pricey, however a little bit does go a long way. I found that using one pump of this is enough to spread over my whole face and then an extra pump for my neck. So really you only need to use two pea sized amounts each time.

So what have I thought of this product? Well, aside from the whole silly name thing, I actually really like it. I have found that this serum leaves my skin feeling very plump and it gives it a healthy glowing look, which I love as I usually look super dull and the complete opposite of glowing at this time of year. I actually had a couple of compliments on my skins plumpness recently (this was from makeup artists if you’re wondering who would compliment someone on such a thing), so I think it could be down to this product. I’m still not about to say that the Laser-free Resurfacer Serum lives up to its claims of getting laser results but, I am impressed with it and I have been very pleased with the results that it has had on my skin, so I do give it the thumbs up.

You can shop the Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Resurfacer here.

Have you tried any of the Peter Thomas Roth skincare?

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

December 7, 2015
LookFantastic November Beauty Box Review

This month’s Lookfantastic beauty box includes another great selection of products and here’s a full review of what is inside…

Bellapierre Cosmetics Mineral Lipstick
I have to admit, I am yet to use this lipstick but that’s only due to the fact that I currently have several red lipsticks on the go. However I have been tempted to give this one a go as it smells delicious (I’m always drawn in by sweet scented lipsticks), and the Ruby shade in bright red look gorgeous.

Korres Guava Showergel
For the full size bottle (250ml) at £8, this showergel is quite a bit pricier than what I would usually spend. It’s funny though because I easily spend large amounts on what I put on my face but never really consider it when it comes to the rest of my body… First off this stuff smells amazing. The Guava scent of the showergel has a really unique tropical smell, which I love. And why is it the price it is? Well, it claims to help maintain the skin’s moisture whilst protecting it, along with helping to reduce the visible signs of ageing. Maybe I should start investing more on my body lotions and potions after all.

Ole Henriksen’s Empower Cleanser
I’ve only used this a couple of times (my cleanser collection appears to be building up rabidly). The couple of times I have used it though, it has left my skin feeling lovely and soft. It also contains salicylic acid which is great for helping to shed dead skin cells.

Dr. PAWPAW Ultimate Red Balm
Makeup artists often have this to hand on shoots and it’s something I’ve said I’m going to buy for ages. Now I finally have my own PAWPAW in this convenient miniature size, which currently lives in my handbag. This PAWPAW Red Balm, unlike the original, is slightly tinted. It is a very subtle tint however and just adds the slightest hint of colour when applied to the lips. It can also be used on your cheeks and can be used as a skin protector or for irritable, dry skin. For me personally this has currently been my lip saviour.

REN V-Cense Youth Vitality Day Cream
I really like this day cream. It really helps hydrate and add moisture to my skin without leaving me looking shiny. It smooths on easily and it leaves my skin looking matte. It has a sort of herbal scent, which reminds me of herbal tea but I rather like it. I’m enjoying the results of this day cream as it leaves my skin feeling plump and hydrated.

Kebelo Enriching Masque
I’ve used this hair masque once and I have to say, it’s not for me. It is designed for naturally dry hair, which is certainly my hair, however It’s probably not intended for my hair texture and that’s apparent with the fact that it did not do much. It’s probably much more suitable for European hair I would imagine.

November’s Lookfantastic Beauty Box has been another hit with me and there’s only been one product that I have felt is not something for me, which was of course the hair masque. I fell I get slightly repetitive in my round up of these Beauty Boxes, but I am genuinely impressed with the selection of products that I find in them each month. It may be the fact that each box I’ve received so far has had a great selection of skincare and I am a self confessed skincare addict after all.

Have you tried the Lookfantastic Beauty Box or any of the products in November’s box?

You can subscribe to the Lookfantastic Beauty Box here.

Samio x

You may also want to check out some of my past Beauty Box reviews:
October’s Beauty Box
September’s Beauty Box
August’s Beauty Box

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

November 13, 2015
New Skincare Favourites – Bio-Essence Review

When I discover new products and brands that I love, I get so excited to share them here on my blog. And I’m really excited to share these products with you as I am loving these at the moment.

You may or may not of heard of skincare brand Bio-Essence, I personally cannot believe I hadn’t heard of it sooner. I recently got the Bio-Essence Miracle Bio Water Jelly Make Up Remover and the Bio-Essence Hydra Tri-Action Aqua Droplet Sleeping Beauty Mask, from Cult Beauty. As a newby to the brand I was eager to try these products out.

Miracle Bio Water Jelly Make Up Remover

It may sound slightly sad but I am actually amazed with how much I love this makeup remover. I’m usually a fan of micellar water and regularly use a few different cleansers/makeup removers which I feel work wonders on my skin, but this is the first product I’ve used that has removed the entirety of my makeup so effortlessly and without any harsh rubbing or tugging to my skin (even my eyes). Pumping the makeup remover onto your finger tips, you then apply it to your face and it feels very light weight as you rub it onto the skin – I find softly rubbing in circular motions a few times really helps to lift the makeup. It quickly begins to break down and dissolve your makeup. You then rinse it off, like you would a face wash and Voilà, makeup removed. It leaves my skin feeling clean and soft without any irritation. This makeup remover is certainly my new favourite and I’ll definitely get it again!

Hydra Tri-Action Aqua Droplet Sleeping Beauty Mask

The overnight mask is not like any other hydration mask I’ve used before. As opposed to being thick and creamy, like many other hydrating masks, this one is actually extremely lightweight and feels almost like water droplets on the skin before it quickly devolves into the face and neck. I was a little sceptical at first, as it did instantly hydrate my skin but I wasn’t sure how well it would work over night (as it doesn’t feel like you have product on your skin). I actually found that overnight the lightweight formula works it’s magic really well on my skin and leaves it feeling extremely hydrated and refreshed the next morning. This product has been a life saver for my skin right now. I’ve been using it to rehydrate my skin as it becomes a little more dry during these Autumn months.

I’m a new fan of Bio-Essence skincar and I can’t wait to try out more of their products.

Have you tried any of the Bio-Essence skincare?

You can shop the full Bio-Essence range here.

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

November 4, 2015
LookFantastic October Beauty Box Review

It’s the end of October already but better late than never I guess. So here is a review of this month’s LookFantastic Beauty Box.

Balance Me Radiance Face Mask

I’ve used this face mask before and you can read my full review of it here. As it is a product that I’ve previously used and liked, I was quite happy to find it in this month’s box.

Percy & Reed Smoothed, Sealed & Sensational Volumizing No Oil Oil

As someone with ‘big hair’, who uses copious amount of ‘actual oil’ to add moisture, this isn’t exactly a product targeted at me. I will be quite honest in saying that I haven’t tried this product, nor do I intend to (for obvious reasons) but I’m sure I’ll be able to give it to a friend who will find it useful.

Look Good Feel Better Eye Shading Brush

I currently use a few of the Look Good Feel Better makeup tools and so I was happy when I saw this eye shading brush in this month’s box. Like the other LGFB brushes, it’s super soft and it works perfectly for applying and blending eyeshadow.

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

I’m always happy to find new skincare in a beauty box. I’ve not tried any Murad products before and although I’m still yet to try this exfoliating cleaner (due to the fact that I currently have a few on the go), I’m sure it will come in handy for when I’m next travelling and need to take a miniature.

Monu Firming Moisturiser

I had never previously heard of Monu skincare but I must say that I am pleased with this moisturiser. It does what it says and helps to firm the skin and you can feel it working instantly. It’s not greasy and it sits well under makeup, which I particularly like.

Elemis Hydra-Balance Day Cream

I really like this day cream. It’s been ideal for my skin whilst being on holiday, as after coming in from the sun it was nice to refresh and apply this day cream to restore moisture and hydration to my skin. It really does help to hydrate the skin and you can instantly feel it soak in. – I’d probably buy this product in full size in the future!

Nuxe Paris Hand and Nail Cream

I’m surprised I haven’t finished this hand cream already. I’ve been carrying this around in my handbag on a daily basis and using it on the go. It doesn’t feel too oily and keeps my hands moisturised for a good amount of time. This miniature size has actually really come in handy when my handbag has been stuffed to the brim.

Overall that’s another LookFantastic Beauty Box that I’ve been pleased with. I’ve received a good selection of products, some of which have really come in handy and others which I would purchase in the future.

Have you tried any of these products?

You can subscribe to The Limited Edition LookFantastic Beauty Boxes here.

Samio x

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

October 30, 2015
Creating A Flawless Future With Elizabeth Arden

My skincare routine has changed a lot recently. I turned another year older in June and although I may still look young (I hope), I know that I mustn’t take it for granted and it’s important that I take the steps now to look after my skin for the future. Now that I’m officially in my mid twenties I want to invest in skincare that can hopefully help maintain the youthful look of my skin a while longer…

A problem I often have is finding products that are exactly right for my age. I’m often drawn in by skincare products to then find that they are either for much younger or much older skin than my own, so I was excited when I discovered the Elizabeth Arden Flaweless Future range.

I don’t know about you but I usually think of Elizabeth Arden as a brand that caters for an older age range. Although I have tried a couple of their products in the past, I had never ventured into trying out their facial skincare/moisturisers, until now.

Flawless Future Caplet Serum
First of all let’s talk about the packaging. Okay, so the look of the packaging isn’t going to make the product work any better but I have to say I instantly loved the look of this, as I just think it looks so pretty. It’s the type of product you’d want to keep out on your dressing table…

Anyway, onto the important stuff. When you pump out the serum the tiny caplets inside burst as the serum is released. It has a gorgeous shimmer to it that instantly makes your skin look glowing and more radiant.

This is a serum that can be used both morning and night. However, I tend to use it just in the morning, as I love the look it gives my skin (with the ever so slight shimmer) so I personally almost feel it’s a waste wearing it for bed.

The serum has quite a runny consistency but it dries quickly once applied to the skin. Once it’s on, I can’t even feel that it’s there.

For the instant effects it certainly helps to give me a brighter looking complexion as I feel the shimmering particles within the serum help reflect the light and add a glow to my skin. For long term effects, it claims to ‘intercept early aging signs’ and ‘reduce the appearance of early signs of wrinkles’.

Flawless Future Night Cream

The night cream is luxuriously creamy. When I’ve applied it to my skin it feels instantly hydrated as it starts to sink in and work its magic.

This cream is very thick and so a little bit goes a long way. I especially feel it works great after I’ve had a hectic day and my skin requires a little extra care.

The morning after having applied this cream I can see that it has worked its magic, as it leaves my skin feeling so hydrated and plumped.

I’ve currently been using these two Flawless Future products for about three months now and I’m really pleased with them both as the two products combined have been working fabulously on my skin. I think that they are the type of products that you can easily work into your current skincare routine (as I have done). The night cream has worked a dream on my skin when it’s looking a little fatigued and the serum has fit perfectly into my routine each morning.

I’ll be keen to invest in both of these products again. More so the night cream than the serum, as I have to say that the night cream has been my favourite out of the two. They are quite pricey but I feel that for the results I have found them to have on my skin, they are worth it if you can alternate them between your other skincare products and make them last. I personally think that these are great ones to add to the Christmas wish list.

Have you tried any products from the Elizabeth Arden Flawless Future range?

Samio x

You can shop the full Flawless Future range here.

Some of the items may have been sent to me for review purposes, however this does not affect my opinions – check out my disclaimer for further information.

October 8, 2015