Products I've used up | April 2016

A small selection of products to talk through today starting with the Scruples Pearl Complete Recovery Treatment Masque*.  A treatment to be worked into clean damp hair and left for between 1 - 10 minutes before rinsing or 1-10 minutes depending on how intensive a treatment you would like.

It both smells lovely and will aid dry and dull hair. Ironically I used this prior to colour treating my hair so I can't speak for how well it would work on that. But as a regular hair treatment even on my natural colour ensured that hair was in a healthy condition.

GLAMGLOW Youthmud Tinglexfoliate Treatment was one of my first 'blogger influenced' purchases and reviewed way back in 2013. Whilst this mask has a cult status and is a great product I'm still not sure, as I was three years ago whether it's worth the huge price tag. GLAMGLOW share a list of fantastic benefits for it's use, 'glowing complexion in just 10 minutes' to 'tighten, tone and lift the skin' and I can't deny that it does provide those. That said I find similar results from many of my clay masks, not least the more affordable Mask of Magnaminty from Lush. Complaints about price point aside the biggest bug bear for me is the 'debris' in this mask that just slips of skin and makes a mess everywhere.

Two perfumes climbed into my empties pile this month, Britney Spears Rocker Femme Fantasy* and Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. Britney's fragrance was a surprise hit as I had the usual judgements in advance of using it. The perfect scent for summer with it's fruity mix with a musky edge it's worth having a sniff if you come across it. You'll also find it on The Fragrance Shop half price at the moment and with a free gift as well.

It's oh so cliche but Chanel Coco Mademoiselle is one of my favourite and signature scents which I won't apologise for. I often have moments when I want to 'try something new' but it's always this I return to this. Will I repurchase? I already had one on standby!

Next is not so much an empty as a dried up. Often the case with these gel type top coats I went to use eyeCANDY Gel Top Coat* one day and the lid came off but the rest was set in stone in the bottle. Often you don't find out how good something really is until you use other products (I previously claimed it was better than Seche Vite) and the topcoats I've turned to recently have made me miss this. The others don't seem to have the same shine nor the extra added wear I need constantly typing in the office if not at home on the laptop. I think I'm lucky enough to have another in my stash but otherwise I will repurchase.

A product I'm sad to see reach it's end was the Limited Edition Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish in Sweet Orange and Mint. Why oh why did I not buy more of these or at least this in it's larger size? Regrets, I've had a few... melodramatic of course but it was a favourite to use. My 'use what I have mantra' for 2016 means I must first use the cleansers I already own but I know I will be returning to Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish one day soon.

Ending with another skincare item, Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+* a lovely oil to fit into your skincare that's certified organic an 100% natural. Plenty of ingredients that do wonderful things for the skin and if you're worried about sunspots try this out - especially if they're telling on the hands. Find out more in my original review here. 

*this post contains press samples

Products I'm trying to use up

As we entered 2016 I decided it was time to try and use up products they have. In fact I've got a post on the cards about how long make up and other products really last as some, despite regular use appear to go on for days but that's a topic for another time.

Today's post is a jumble of products that are nearing the end of their life so it's time to try and ensure I help them along their journey. First up is Maybelline Rewind Concealer of which I've become a big fan of. Despite my initial reluctance to use it when I first purchased it's now the one I reach for regularly. It overs my dark circles, blends nicely and doesn't crease. It's one I'll be repurchasing and even the sponge applicator that people shy away from doesn't offend me.

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Fluid is a product I really don't want to say goodbye to as I love it but it's getting to the stage where I have to put a bit more effort into squeezing the product out when I use it. Purchased after using a sample this gives a light coverage for those good skin days and a luminosity to the skin perfect for those Summer evenings. Whilst Chanel Les Beiges Foundation is on my birthday list have no doubt I will be repurchasing the lighter base when the time comes for me to say goodbye to this tube. 

The next product on my list is the Lorac eye primer which I'm using on a daily basis (unless short on time) and I would be worried that I'm unable to replace in the UK were it not for a second tube in my stash and the original favourite Urban Decays Primer Potion alongside it. I thought out picking up a back up in Florida earlier in the year but decided to stick with the buy and replace attitude I'm trying to adopt.

What a name the Kiehls Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Eye Cream has and some pretty big claims. As I've said many times I'm never sure where I stand with eye creams, do I have some lines around my eyes, certainly but are they 'bad', I don't think so so these products must be doing something or can I claim good genes? Nonetheless I've enjoyed using this eye cream and it will be seen in next months empties and would repurchase if, again there were not numerous other offerings in my healthy stashes. I preferred to use of an evening but it's a light almost gel like texture that wouldn't interfere with make up too much and certainly kept the area hydrated. 

The product in this list I think I'll struggle to use up quickly is Eloquence Protect and Repair Cream*. I had decided to use this product up having used a healthy amount during Christmas and New Year (the serum and eye creams have already found their way into the empties pile) but in the spirit of 'first world problems' I'm lucky to receive a lot of skincare to test and as such this has been somewhat cast aside. Perhaps I'll pop it back in my dressing tables skincare draw to reach for sporadically during those testing products.

Finally is Lush Lord of Misrule, the Halloween favourite of many. I brought this last Halloween and never used it up at the time. With a bathroom filled with numerous shower gels I chop and change at whim but decided it was time to use this small bottle up in it's entirety. Well don't let this small bottle fool you, it last forevers and it seemed like it would just not go down and to be honest I was bored with it and in a tantrum of sorts I passed it on to my brother as I just couldn't bear to look at it! Another word of warning, it'll make your bathroom look like Slimer from Ghostbusters has been for a visit. 

So there's a look at products I'm trying to use up so keep a look out for them appearing in an empties post in the near future. What are you trying to use up at the moment? 

*this post contains press samples

Products I've used up | February 2016

I was ready to start this month's empties post announcing how I would be adding any products I have tried and not been a fan of into these monthly posts. I have one problem, the product in question this month being La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Micro-Exfoliant Lotion* but I've subsequently realised I was using it incorrectly so let's pretend it's not there and move on to the products I am able to speak of.

I was not a big fan of Maybelline Baby Lips when I first tried them buying into the hype that was across social media. That aside it was sat on my desk and came in handy when I wasn't interested in touching up my lipstick but either needed some colour or to fill in where lipstick had left nothing but liner. I clearly have changed my view as I have repurchased the Cherry version and it is back sitting on my desk for when needed.

I'm not going to say too much about Regenerate Toothpaste* as I will have a full blog post coming up soon, including their teeth whitening products. I can say that as a competitor to my favoured Breathe Company version it faired well. For me its all about the taste as I expect the usual results from any toothpaste I use and this one did not cause any disappointments.

Lush Salted Coconut Hand Scrub was a fun product to try from Lush and smelt delicious. I did enjoy adding this to my manicure regime and would repurchase but not in any hurry. I make the assumption that any scrub I use on my body will have some impact on my hands and as I'm not a fan of my weekly manicures this is a step I'll skip.

I've had the odd small bottle of Lancome Tonique Doceur come through my skincare stash on a couple of occasions. As toners go this is pleasant to use but certainly not something that I would warrant the extra expense on.

I whizzed through Eloquence Beauty's Serum* over the past couple of months which shows that I was reluctant to swap it out of my routine. I enjoy discovering serums that can be used in the morning and not interfere make up and this was one of these. Not too heavy and filled with skin plumping ingredients that leave my skin look fresh and awake it's definitely a product I would return to. Find out more about Eloquence Beauty in this post.

Teeth whitening is something I'm having a bit of a moment with although like most things it's slighty sporadic. The iWhite system* featured in my Oscars Red Carpet Ready post and it's quick and simple to use which of course appeals to my desire not to add anything too cumbersome into already overloaded routines.

Finally and just because is another of my favourite Sure Maximum Protection Deodorant. It's monthly appearance means you already know it's a favourite.

What have you been using up this month?

*this post contains press samples

Winter Hand Care

Since having my acrylics removed many moons again now I tend to my hands needs at home. In fact I look after them far better than I ever did, allowing myself time for manicures and my cuticles have never looked so tamed. As we enter the colder weather one of the first places I start to feel it is my hands. The gloves will be out very soon I'm sure.

In preparation I've added a couple of extras to my manicure routine to make things a even more luxurious. The first is Lush Salted Coconut Hand Scrub which let's get it out of the way now, smells amazing. I could literally sit with a pot of this under my nose 24/7.

As I type this post I'm trying to think back to whether I've ever used, or had used a hand scrub in any hand treatments and don't think I have. Of course body scrubs are a regular in my routine these days and it seems quite logical that you apply the same care to your hands.

How you use this product is down to you and your hands, you can dive straight in to dry hands for a more abrasive scrub or add some warm water to make things a little softer. Either way the combination of sea salt and coconut oil will leave your hands soft and supple. It's also great to have this on hand for any self tanning errors.

Next in my Winter line up is Trind Softening Hand Mask*. Trind is a German nailcare brand that has just recently launched into Marks and Spencer Beauty Halls. With ingredients such as macadamia nut oil this hand mask is created to restore skin, remove impurities and offer a solution to chapped and dry hands.

It was quite a bizarre experience applying a mask to the hands. Firstly of course you're unable to do anything and unlike waiting for nails to dry in this instance you cannot touch anything as things will get messy and application can be as you're battling the applying on each hand without wiping it off. You'll get the hang of it though and after five minutes you simply rinse your hands.

This two products certainly add some additional luxury to my manicures at home and my hands have never looked better.

Would you ever try a hand mask?

*This post contains press samples 

Halloween at Home

There's something about Halloween I love, I don't know whether it's just my general appreciation for a 'theme' or the excuse to dress up but love it I do. As such be prepared for some Halloween themed posts over the next few days as I get into the spirit (ha!) wherever possible, no matter how tenuous (fi it's so much as slightly pumpkin coloured you may find it here next week.

Today I'm starting things a little more low key for those who perhaps aren't fans of the spooky holiday and won't be roaming the streets Trick or Treating next weekend. Instead here are some of my picks for a Halloween pamper session at home.

Many a Saturday night I can be found in the bath tub and what better product to use than MOA's Fortifying Green Bath Potion*. Housed in a bottle which would not look out of place in Professor Snapes Potion's Lab this is really quite 'bewitching'. I know I shall stop soon. Rid yourself of stress, aches and pains whether from the constant trick or treaters visits, or maybe you were pounding the streets yourself climb into a bath of peppermint and fennel and return that spring to your step.

Last weekend I gave this a try and quite frankly it is amazing. The peppermint scent fills the bathroom and you have that hit in your throat as you feel the aromatic scent - this would be ideal if you were suffering from Autumn sniffles. Climbing into the bath I really felt myself relax and a weight lift of my shoulders, and that's as someone who isn't really one for kicking back and relaxing in the bath. Even when I returned home later that afternoon the bathroom still had the lingering scent. 

What would a post on bath time Halloween treats be without the inclusion of Lush. I'm not a frequent Lush shopper but you can bet as soon as the seasonal items hit stores I'm first in there. I think it's almost mandatory as a blogger to feature the Lush Sparkly Pumpkin and this is it's second appearance on Florence and Mary. This year I passed on to my mum to try after she commented on my instagram photo of them in store as I must admit cleaning up the glitter after using isn't something I enjoy. Clean up requirements aside this is a fun addition and would make a great gift for younger hostesses if you're attending parties or teachers. I managed two uses from one bar and maybe could've got away with three if I were more diligent. As I commented last year my biggest disappointment is that it isn't pumpkin scented and instead it's more zesty. 

New to me from Lush this year was Lord of Misrule Shower Scream (Lush's pun this time not mine!), usually found in their bath bomb offering. I'd not tried this either and whilst I was initially happy with my Sparkly Pumpkin purchase after one sniff I was hooked on Lord of Misrule and threw it into my basket. Appropriately green coloured this has a more sweet scent than I would expect from the vanilla and really reminds me of some sweets or something which I just can't put my finger on. It's a thick cream which nourishes the skin and worked better than my expectations allowed for shaving purposes. This is definitely one I'll be looking out for next year. You can find more of Lush's Halloween range here. 

The easiest way to get into the Halloween spirit without needing a full make up tutorial and face paints is by painting your nails an appropriate colour. If orange is a little too garish and black too gothic then maybe try purple? My pick is Belvedere Road from Nails Inc which is sadly discontinued from my hunt to link online but I'm sure you can find the colour that's just right for you.

If you'd like some more Halloween reading you can find that here and don't forget to let me know how you will spending Halloween.

*This post contains press samples

Lush Lip Scrub | Mint Julip

Lush Lip Scrub | Mint Julip

When my Lip Scrub from Lush in Popcorn dried out to the point it was unpleasant to use I was quite happy as it gave me an opportunity to try a different flavour and scent. On repurchasing I decided to go for Mint Julip. Mint chocolate is the scents claim although to me it is very nostalgic and reminds me of humbug sweets. 

Scent aside this lip scrubs are perfect for matte lipstick lovers such as myself. My pot sits in a basket of beauty products aside my sofa so that I can reach in for them whilst being a couch potato. Things can be a little bit messy but just lick your lips like you've just demolished a donut and all will be forgiven.

The scrub is harsh but not unkindly so and lips are left smooth and all dry skin is forgiven. I add a slick of one of my trusty lip balms and my lips are ready for the next days lipstick application. A must at this time of year when I'm reaching for my bright pinks. 

Have you tried the Lush lip scrubs? Are you a fan?

BEAUTY EMPTIES | April 2015

Pixi Glow Tonic link

I'm not entirely sure why it took my so long to use this bottle of Pixi Glow Tonic as I used it on a fairly regular basis. As you can see it's even in the old style pump bottle. I do remember on purchasing it initially I wasn't particularly overwhelmed but due to it's age I don't feel it'd be fair to pass any comment and with it's affordable price I would repurchase again and give it another shot. 

Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub link

Another product that has been in my collection for a ridiculously long time is the famous lip scrub from Lush in the popcorn scent. I originally reviewed this in 2013 here and whilst I did enjoy using the product I wasn't diligent enough with it's application and it is now in a dried up state so it's time to add a new one into my shopping basket. 

COLAB Dry Shampoo Extreme Volume in RIO link

I'm slightly dubious of the influx of products released by YouTubers and the flood of positive reviews and whilst many are not really targeted for me I had to swallow my words when I tried the COLAB Extreme Volume dry shampoo. I picked up the smaller size on a trip to Superdrug thinking it'd be ideal to tackle those hand luggage woes of mine (read about them here). I must concede that this is a great product that I love and have subsequently purchased the full size. I don't use this as a dry shampoo as I'm happy with Batiste for that purpose but as a product to give volume and texture to my hair this is perfect. 

L'Oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray - Supreme Hold link

I'm not really a hairspray user, only if I've had my hair 'properly' style or worn up but it's always handy to have a trusty can of Elnett in my arsenal. I've tried the Bumble & Bumble Thickening Hairspray and it's just too wet for me and often ruins any style I've had or destroy any volume whereas Elnett keeps things in place without leaving things crispy. Definitely much add to my repurchase list. 

Laura Geller GlamLash Mascara link

Another product that made the empties pile this month is the famous GlamLash mascara from Laura Geller. I really enjoyed this mascara and would definitely repurchase. It did everything it said it would, lengthening, volumising and separating lashes, I always felt a little special wearing this and felt it finished off my simple eye make up looks but adding a little drama. 

Bumble & Bumble Thickening Dryspiun Finish link

I have gone through about three cans of Bumble & Bumbles wonderful Dryspun finish and repurchased every time but our happy journey may be at an end having discovered COLAB as mentioned above. These products work for me in a very similar fashion and if I can find one for a fraction of a cost then it's a win win. 

Lush Aquatic Toothy Tabs link

As I've mentioned often I'm taking a concerted effort to use products I have hence why you're seeing a lot of 'old' products starting to make their appearance in these posts. Another is the Lush Toothy Tabs which have been used for all my travels since their early review in 2013 here. Whilst I love this product I hate the taste of these and even Ben was horrified when I made him try one in Edinburgh. I would repurchase but need to find the right 'taste' for me. 

Bath & Bodyworks Wild Madagascar Vanilla EDP link

This was a new fragrance release when I was in BBW during one of my US trips and I fully intended to include in my giveaway. Cheekily after testing I decided I liked it too much and kept it for myself. It was the perfect Winter scent and had a spiciness to it which stopped it from being sickly sweet. 

Simple Kind to Skin+ Illuminating Radiance Cream link

This was a sample I used on one of my nights away and I enjoyed using it. It certainly added radiance after a night out and gave my skin the boost it needed that I could head home with a pounding head but looking more awake than I felt.

The Breath Co Oral Rinse* link
Originally reviewed in this post I was surprised how much I enjoyed using a mouth wash as it's not something that's ever been part of my routine. I have subsequently repurchased the toothpaste having missed it and finding it more palatable than other toothpaste brands. I haven't rushed to repurchase this but I think it's definitely something I should reconsider as it's worth the extra step.

Simple Kind to Skin Facial Cleansing Wipes link
I've featured the Simple wipes in my empties post before as the handy 7's pack is ideal for unexpected overnight stays. Without my regular skincare line up and wanting to do the least in simply removing make up for one night I don't find that these wipes leave my skin dry and make me feel almost saintly for making the effort!

What have you been using up this month?

*PR Sample

2014 Skincare Favourites

I certainly feel like during 2014 I started to learn more about skincare and more importantly my own skin. I've talked often about how until I started entering the beauty blogging arena my regimes had been lacking. Now I wouldn't be without my arsenal of products and the more I'm lucky enough to experience I learn what does and doesn't work for my skin.

Here are some of my favourites from 2014.

Mask of Magnaminty link
I first used the Mask of Magnaminty last Summer and I've yet to repurchase only because I wanted to sample more masks I had to hand. Despite my day to day regimes being up to scratch I can't say the same for adding masks to my routine and that is a goal for 2015. I'm still resisting the repurchase for the same reason as before but my willpower is starting to wane especially as I think if the Mask of Magnaminty was back in my life I would actually make the time for mask application.

Vichy Idealia Eyes Cream* link
This eye cream which forms part of the Idealia range from Vichy and as two products form part of this yearly favourites post you will note I'm a fan. As I initially reviewed in this post this eye cream is a wonder for mornings, particularly after a harsh night due to it's illuminators. Anyone with a dodgy sleeping pattern needs this in their life.

L'Oreal Refreshing Toner link
At the weekend I waved a bottle of this under my mum's nose to show how it smells of 'man' and she agreed. If you're not a fan of that sort of scent then this toner is not for you, likewise if you're not of the mature ilk. I'm on my second bottle of this toner which I love for it's affordability and brightening properties (do you sense a theme here). My preference is to use this of an evening to date although it originally appeared in my morning skincare line up.

Vichy Idealia Life Serum* link
Slightly questionable lifestyle? Fond of a drink or two? Smoker? If you answer yes to any of these questions then Vichy Idealia Serum is for you. Of course it's not just for those with shall we say, bad habits but targeted for those who have environmental stresses that we all experience at certain times of life.

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo[+] link
I would say that I was bored of talking about the Effaclar Duo[+] from La Roche Posay if it wasn't for the fact that I love this product. I was initially introduced to this tube of wonder way back in March 2014 and since then it's featured as a regular part of my skincare line up and been repurchased on numerous occasions. On it's initial use I'd apply both morning and night, now I'm in a position that my skin is clear enough to only require using it on one or two days throughout the week, generally of an evening. During 'that time of the month' I'll amp up it's usage as that's why I typically find one or two hormonal spots wanting to make an appearance but otherwise unless I've been slack in removing make up I'm blemish free. Of course on those occasions I've slipped enough to not even use a face wipe I make sure I feature the Effaclar Duo in my routine.

Soap & Glory Peaches & Clean Cleanser
Finally a cleanser that despite being brought on a whim with no research has become a firm favourite. I use this creamy cleanser of a morning and love both it's formula and scent. My face is always left refreshed without any dryness and the smell is delicious. I'm about 3/4 of a way through my current bottle and I will certainly repurchase when the time comes. It's affordable, often available on offer at Boots and comes with a handy pump dispenser bottle which is clear so you can see how much you have used/have left. There are nothing but good things for me to say about this product.

So there you have a peek at my 2014 skincare favourites, does anything in my list take your fancy?

*PR Sample

Lush Seasonal Haul

Cinders Bath Bomb link

I must confess I've never been a big Lush fan finding their products gimmicky and can remember days out shopping with friends when I would refuse to go into their overwhelming scented stores. Obviously over recent years I've become more open with my beauty tastes and have begun dabbling with various Lush products and been pleasantly surprised. As you will see with the following items I've recently used it's actually the products qualities I'm impressed with and less the gimmicky side so it shows how wrong you can be. I must also add that my bath is beige so I don't always get the colour benefits that a white bath would give so do bear that in mind if I'm critical there.

First up the Cinders Bath bomb which is part of the Christmas range launched recently and was a bit of a disappointment for me. I don't know if my water was too hot but it appeared to disappear rather quickly with no crackling to speak of. The colour doesn't lend itself to anything to pleasant turning a mustard shade and there minimal bubbles to speak of. Luckily the scent saved it from being a complete dud although again I didn't find it overwhelming which having a look around it seems most people state the size of this bath bomb may be where the problem likes.

Fizzbanger Bath Bomb link

The Fizzbanger I did enjoy and as implied above maybe the size of this bath bomb is where it comes into it's own. Nothing to look at but a big yellow ball it took quite some time fizzing around my bath and I can't deny I was amused watching it take effect. It didn't kick into it's fizz banging qualities till the blue colours were released but there was the distinctive snap, crackle and pop which made me smile and of course watching the small square of paper shouting 'bang' release itself. 

The scent was stronger from the Fizzbanger and lingered during my bath although not overwhelming but I was particularly impressed with how soft my skin felt just from the soak in the tub. Apparently this product contains Petitgrain which is used to calm breathing, slow the heartbeat and reduce feelings of anxiety. Whilst none of these are cause for concern I definitely felt that I had had a relaxing bath and was able to climb into bed quite relaxed.

Sparkler Bath Bomb

Another disappointing product which was saved only for the glittery sparkle in the bath that was left. Again this bomb disappeared quickly, no bubbles and just a milky film in the bath with the mustardy colour which doesn't feel enjoyable to lay in. Again the gimmicks aside the scent was pleasant if short lived and skin was left feel soft to touch.

Candy Mountain link

Candy Mountain part of the famous Snow Fairy scented products  that hit Lush every Christmas. As mentioned these products have escaped me each year so far and I can't quite understand how a sweet smelling range becomes such a Christmas institution. That aside I love vanilla scents and found that this filled my bathroom and created a mountain of bubbles to provide an enjoyable bath time treat. Would I mark this out as part of my Christmas traditions, probably not but as a standalone product I'm a fan. 

Finally we have the Halloween Sparkly Pumpkin which unfortunately already appears to have disappeared from the website but you may find in stores. I was able to get too baths from this bar and both had an abundance of bubbles having mastered my bath running technique to ensure maximum effect from the Lush products. The disappointment with this product is that it isn't pumpkin scented which I would have enjoyed as a preference but otherwise this is a great seasonal gift for teachers or Halloween party hosts. Most people seem to complain about cleaning the glitter from their baths after using this product but I'm pleased to say that I didn't find it a problem so that is a thumbs up from me.

As you will have read the products were mixed in favour for me although I did find it a pleasure to use them all and was definitely impressed with how my skin felt after bathing which is more important than where I received sound affects of colour displays. Lush bath bombs are definitely fun to explore and if you want to treat yourself to something for a few pounds these are a great idea if not pricey for a per use breakdown.

I'll definitely be returning to my Lush store shortly as there's a few more items from the Christmas range I want to try out. What about you are you a Lush fan?

Lush Brightside Bubble Bar Review

Lush Brightside link

I should have learnt after the gorgeous bath in Caesars Palace on my trip to Las Vegas last year that a bubble bath is a worthy addition to the toiletries I take on holiday with me but alas it was overlooked when I visited Hawaii and with the gorgeous Halekulani Hotel's bathroom it was time to head to Lush and rectify that.

Lush Bubble Bars are perfect for holidays rather than a bottle as you will have just enough for two or three baths during your stay and as you can see from the picture above just a third of the Brightside bubble bar created an abundance of bubbles for me to soak in whilst enjoying a glass of champagne.

Brightside bubble bar is a citrus burst of sicilian mandarin, bergamot and tangerine which make for the perfect holiday accompaniment and where better to lay back and relax than on holiday in a luxurious bathroom. 

As my mum and I head once again to Caesars Palace it's time to seek out the nearest branch of Lush so I can stock up for another soak in the tub.

June Empties | Beauty

Shalimar Parfum Initial 
My mum brought this for me for Christmas after observing me trying it at beauty counters on numerous occasions. Usually a lover of strong perfumes and the history of the original Shalimar I found the newer younger fragrance to be the preferred scent. Fresher than it's older sister this was a pleasant fragrance and I was glad to have it in my collection. A colleague repeatedly commented on my smelling nice whenever I wore this and has since recommended it to a friend who couldn't find any testers so I can the last of the bottle to him to share with her. I wouldn't rush to repurchase this as I always lean towards my Chanel Coco Mademoiselle but it was nice to have something new in my fragrance wardrobe.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle
The perfume that happily takes me from day to night. Strong enough to smell on yourself yet light enough for day. I'm never without a bottle of this and love the handy perfume spray although as I've mentioned before it is frustrating to have to buy the whole system rather than refills. I will repurchase but in a few months when I hit duty free.

Chanel Vitalumere Aqua Foundation
I'm torn between how I feel about this blogger favourite, the foundation raved as a must have by many. This small tester bottle actually lasted a good week so I was able to put it through its paces during a week of mixed weather conditions. Some days I would look in the mirror and think wow this foundation is amazing and on another I'd feel it was less dewy and more sweaty. I think I may be more suited to the newer Velvet addition to their foundation range.

Heaven Skincare Cleansing Milk* 
I've mentioned Heaven Skincare once or twice on the blog before and I'm happy to try any range that has Kate Middleton's seal of approval. This cleansing milk was originally limited edition having been created for one of Deborah Mitchell's clients (Kate maybe?) and became so popular it was made permanent. I would use this as my second cleanse and enjoyed it's consistancy although there was nothing that particularly wowed me. Also I find the bottle really restricting. Yes the glass bottle is slim and elegant but I can't help feel that a lot of the product is wasted and for love nor money could I get the top of to scrap any residual product out.

Chanel Les Beiges All-In-One Healthy Glow Fluid 
You will know by now that Chanel Les Beiges powder is my holy grail item so I was intrigued to see how the Healthy Glow Fluid would compare and I can confirm it's love and how I have managed to resist purchasing the full size yet I don't know.
I was instantly wowed by this but when I checked it's appearance in the mirror an hour or two later I was amazed. I can only describe this as looking like you have stepped off the beach. You know when you've sat in the sun all day and have a fresh tanned glow. If I was going on a Summer holiday this year I would definitely be taking this with me.

Lush Mask of Magnaminty
I am only resisting repurchasing Lush Magnaminty so I can give the other masks in my cupboards a fair crack at the whip. I fully reviewed this mask here so I want repeat in too much detail but this is an affordable mask that now means I want to explore more Lush skincare products.

And that brings June Empties to a close, let's see if July brings another bumper bag of trash.

*this post contains press samples

Lush Cosmetics | Mask of Magnaminty

Mask of Magnaminty link

I had never quite got the hype surrounding Lush Cosmetics until recently. Previously it had always been that shop on the high street that gave off an overwhelming scent as you walked past the door and sold 'weird' soaps that were displayed in large blocks around the store.

Of course I was in the last to know group as I saw various Lush products popping up on blogs, instagram and tumblr so it was definitely time to get involved. I've already spoke about the lip scrub and Comforter bar in previous posts and a Lush shampoo and conditioner duo featured in this weeks empties post you can read here but today's post is all about hail to the gods, the Mask of Magnaminty.

I think I first heard about this from Jacyln Hill and then it cropped up on one or two blogs thereafter so I decided to give it a try as an alternative to the GlamGlow Mud Mask which despite a lacklustre start I was starting to lust for again.

Lush describes the product as 'a multi-purpose mask with a mixture of gentle yet effective ingredients to clean, calm and clear the skin. Easily smoothed over the skin, this mask is made with peppermint oil to stimulate, marigold oil and chlorophyllin in to treat the skin; evening primrose seeds and aduki beans to gently exfoliate as you remove it'.

So let's look at what they said and whether I accepted their claims.

Easily smoothed over the skin
You'll remember my gripe with the GlamGlow Mud Mask was the difficult to apply so ease of application is definitely something I look for from my masks. I apply using a spatula I received in an exfoliator years ago and the thick consistency makes this easy to do yet not too thick that you can't spread and distribute over the face. In comparison to Origins Clear Improvement mask which I have some difficulty managing to evenly slather on my face this is far easier.

Peppermint oil to stimulate
I will tell you right now if you do not like the scent of peppermint you will not like this product because the smell is pretty overwhelming. This is something I like and enjoy and really does liven you up. Be careful if applying too near the eyes especially if they are sensitive because there has been one or two occasions when I've been a bit overzealous and did suffer from them watering.

Aduki Beans to gently exfoliate
We all know exfoliators, unless of the liquid variety are the work of the devil so this was something that concerned me slightly but I had no reason to fear as you will not even notice the exfoliation due to the thick consistency of the mask. I remove using a muslin cloth which does get messy but there is no tugging or scratching at the skin to speak of

Clean, Calm and clear the skin
I'm having a good skin moment thanks to La Roche Posay's Effaclar Duo which you can read more about in this post but a once a week treatment with the Mask of Magnaminty just takes it up another level. Once removed my skin feels clean, refreshed and glows that I wouldn't have any problem with answering the door to the postman after it's use.

I had plans to treat myself to a few masks from the GlamGlow range in the US when I visit next week but I think I'll save my money and buy a few more from Lush instead, I have my eyes on Cupcake and Oatifix.

Please share your mask loves - but they need to me good to tempt me away from this precious pot!

March 2014 Empties

In preparation for my holiday you may remember I decided to take a spending ban which whilst it may have fallen by the wayside as I stock up on new clothes to take on my trip I've been strict with the beauty products and been able to work my way through a number of products this month.

First up are two fragrances, Jil Sander No 4 which I spoke of in this post and Cleopatra by TOCCA link. As my previous post Jil Sander No 4 link is a favourite of mine and I will definitely be treating myself to some more when I return from my holiday (if there is any money left in the bank!) but Cleopatra was a nice scent but not something I'd purchase again. I received this for Christmas quite a few years ago it seems and it was never the bottle I would reach for on my dressing table and when there are so many other faithful scents why waste time on one that doesn't hit the spot. 

A quick tip from me is to remove lids from perfume bottles and pop them in laundry cupboards or underwear drawers - I find the scent gently fragrances the drawers which is always pleasant.

Two bath favourites are Molton Brown's Relaxing Yuan Zhi link and Radox Muscle Therapy* link. Relaxing Yuan Zhi has been a long time favourite of mine from Molton Brown and I know most people would choose the luxury option over a bottle of Radox you can pick up in the supermarket but I have to say it's quite likely the Radox will be the first I'll repurchase to use in-between Jo Malone Pomegranite Noir baths. You can read more about Radox Muscle Therapy in this post.

Like the perfume bottles the Mahogany Teakwood tumbler link will also be going in one of my cupboards. The smell from this candle is amazing and still going strong despite and as I type this post I'm getting a strong scent. If luggage allowance allows I will certainly be picking up the larger size of this candle when I'm in Bath & Body Works next week - and if you have any other candle recommendations please let me know.

I reviewed Palmers Intensive Hand Cream link fully in this post so I won't ramble too much here. It was the perfect hand cream for Winter and quite timely that it has come to it's end as we approach Spring and I can opt for lighter alternatives. Come next Winter I will be stocking up.

My first haircare empty is a little bit of cheat but worth noting. MOP Glisten Finish Flexible Hold Spray was a favourite many years ago and then had been left to languish in a drawer until recently. A great hairspray for up do's that you don't want to move but for freshly washed hair this will leave a sticky, crispy firm hold which prevents running fingers through hair although

QUA Baths & Spa shampoo and conditioner were from my hotel room at Caesars Palace last year and yes despite the overflowing bathroom shelves I still pinch the toiletries from hotel rooms. Usually I wouldn't give the shampoo and conditioner a second thought and these certainly weren't the products I would use on a daily basis they were adequate for days when you want clean hair but don't require the usual shine from regular shampoos.

Cynthia Sylvia Stout Beer Shampoo link from Lush was a random purchase a few months ago followed by Veganese Hair Conditioner link. We have surely all heard a story from our mum's about washing their hair with beer 'back in the day' and I couldn't resist trying the non-alcoholic version. I enjoyed both of these products - especially the lemon scent from Veganese and would repurchase.

The scandal of seeing facial wipes in an empties post! The good news is these are Heaven Skincare Facial Wipes* link which got the thumbs up from me in this post. I've finally found my way with a good skincare routine which I will blog about soon but I'm human and there are some days when I resort to the lazy option - on the bright side it's taken me 6 months to get through them so I'm not too lazy too often!

I think it's safe to say nothing short of botox will tackle the lines on my forehead but we can live in hope that there is a less intrusive option that works so well. Until then I've been using Bare Minerals Multi-Wrinkle Repair* link. I'm fairly skeptical of the effectiveness of this/these types of product but I don't think my lines are any deeper and there were certainly days when I didn't use this product that I felt like my lines were more prominent. I'm on the fence whether I would repurchase this, only because I'd be intrigued by other options and for now I've moved onto Kiehls Line Reducing Concentrate that is already in my cupboards.

Next month's empties post will mark a year of their featuring on Florence and Mary (read previous posts here) and it should be an interesting one as instead of the usual trip to Boots to buy toiletries for my holiday I am making use of the abundance of samples and products I already own so it may well come from the good old USA - stay tuned.

Don't forget to link me up to your empties posts and let me know what products you said goodbye to in March.

*PR Sample