Products I Used Up | September 2017

Another delved into the pile of beauty trash I amassed over the past months starts with the usual regular appearances of Sure Maximum Protection* and The Wet Brush. Both are staples in my daily routines, although the former may be opted due to a new deodorant I've discovered recently so stay tuned for that in a later post. The Mitchum Deodorant mini is the usual type I have thrown in my bag for freshening up on the go.

I'd love to hear from other Wet Brush users and whether you have to change yours as regular as I do - especially as I don't think I have particularly thick knotty hair to battle. It's probably my only gripe that I do sometimes feel I'm replacing it every month or two but it does give me an opportunity to try out a new colour and there's nothing like a fresh new hairbrush.

Sticking with haircare and shampoo of the dry and regular varieties; Catwalk by TIGI Transforming Dry Shampoo* and John Frieda Sheer Blonde Honey Blonde Colour Illuminating Shampoo*. Both were products that worked as they should and I enjoyed using. You can read full reviews here and here but I suspect any repurchase will be made at John Frieda. As much as I loved the scent of the TIGI Dry Shampoo, I'll still with paying a few pound for the regular offerings.

The cooler temperatures means allowing my hair to air dry isn't so much of an option and it's time to reach for the hairdryer. When I was I powered through TIGI Bed Head Queen Beach Salt Infused Texture Spray* with it's beachy scent and more moisturising offering that left hair less crispy. I would repurchase again, and indeed would for my forthcoming holiday were it not for one or two other bottles lurking around I'd like to use up before the year is out. You can read my original review here.

I've been trying some new skincare items recently so we only say goodbye to Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner* and Lacura Expert Eye Gel. Interestingly and for transparency both these items were ones I loved in it's early stages but later started to find fault and hence there appearance in the basket. In the case of Dermalogica I think I was at fault and had allowed the product to hang around to long in amongst many other skincare products. At first it seemed fine when I reached for it again but the first tell tale sign with any product if the smell seems off it's time to get rid.

The Lacura Expert Eye Gel appeared in my April Favourites I liked it so much in it's early stages but as time went on I found it was a little drying and not quite doing what I wanted. That said a few other gel eye creams I've reached for I've found the same result so think in my older years I need something a little more powerful.

Two products I'm sad to say goodbye to are my Carmex Classic Wild Pot* and Revlon Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Colour in Devotion. Again I'm trying to use up lip balms I have in my collection before buying others but I really am missing Carmex although I'm not a fan of the pot. Stiletto nails do not create the perfect conditions for dipping fingers in but the product was fantastic at keeping lips moisturised.

Revlon's Devotion was my go to lip when I wanted some colour but I wasn't in the mood for the maintenance of a red lip, it also works well whatever the weather. I realised as I was wearing this week that it was becoming less easy to work with and dispense the product so I decided it was time to favour other products. I would repurchase but also as part of my decluttering I'm allowing myself time to discover if indeed I am missing certain products before hitting the repurchase button.

The ever present hand creams that I used up this month were again disappointments. Sorry for this months empties post appearing on the negative side but I guess thats how some months go. Weleda Almond Sensitive Skin Hand Cream* but as with Leighton Denny Best Defence Hand Cream* I found that my hands would not feel so moisturised after I'd applied. They were not dry in the same way as when they come out of water but I still find it was my usual experience.

*this post contains press samples and affiliate links

Bombshell Blue Beauty Products

When I first added beauty blogging to my repertoire what fascinated me most was how little bloggers appeared to wash their hair thanks to dry shampoo. As some with oily roots that was lucky to get through a day unfazed, the fact some went a day without washing let alone numerous days was mind blowing.

Now thanks to a little help from dying my hair can now last a day longer on occasion and whilst I'm happy with the affordable options such as Batiste and Colab from the high street it's always nice to try something a little high end that isn't as bank busting as Oribe.

Catwalk by TIGI Transforming Dry Shampoo* is around £10-15 depending on retailer and my first impression was that it looks far more sophisticated than the aforementioned budget brands. Even Colab has adopted a more colourful rebranding which I think is a shame as it stood out against Batiste. But back to TIGI Catwalk Dry Shampoo which I'm rather impressed with and could justify the more expensive price tag.

It has a musky masculine scent which I enjoy and its one of few dry shampoo's I've used that really doesn't leave a white cast in my brunette roots and doesn't leave hair powdery. The oily roots I'm usually trying to disguise are perked up and left looking a lot fresher. For it's price I really wanted to be a little blasé about it and say it wasn't worth the tag but if you're a brunette and struggle with the more affordable options available this might be worth a try.

Next, just like Britney I did it again, I justified purchasing the Wet Brush Bombshell Blue Hair Brush because of the colour palette and setting up this photograph. Yes I know I only just picked up a new Wet Brush recently but in my defence I had spotted this gorgeous blue colour on a dash through Boots one afternoon and could't stop thinking about it. Yes I know, sad isn't it I couldn't stop thinking about a hair brush but you all know by now I'm a big fan of the Wet Brush.

There's nothing I like more than repurchasing a new Wet Brush as you remember how good they are and tick yourself off for allowing your older brush to outstay it's welcome. As I type this I'm on holiday in St Lucia and following a day on the boat coated in really salt spray and deciding to let my hair whip around in the breeze rather than tie up my hair is something of a knotted mess but my Wet Brush, and admittedly it's the older of the two which I'm planning to leave behind has been far kinder to my hair as I try to brush it out.

How are you treating your hair at the moment?

* this post contains press samples and / or affiliate links

New In Beauty Haul | January 2017

It's ironic that as I say I do not purchase, or am at least trying not to purchase as many beauty products whilst I use up those I own I was recently sucked into a number of purchases that whilst I wanted to try them, justified hitting buy now purely by their aesthetics and how well they would photograph together alongside the one gifted press sample.

Starting with one of my favourite and holy grail products, the Wet Brush Pop Fold Pink which is literally as it's named, a full sized Wet Brush which folds for travel. For holidays I would usually take along an old Wet Brush which I could discard on my return but that isn't ideal as despite my love for The Wet Brush the bristles do suffer and do not travel well, especially in a brush whose bristles are already struggling. With the foldable option the 'intelliflex' bristles are protected by the closure option so this would be ideal.

In my handbag I had been using the Denman Hairbrush Compact purchased after an overnight stay in a hotel where I found I didn't have a hairbrush and had to take some tips from Ariel and use a fork from my late night room service. Whilst the Denman Compact Brush is a more affordable £3.29 compared to The Wet Brush at £13.99 it really is too small and not sufficient for even my head of hair.

The full sized and foldable Wet Brush has been purchased and saves any future worries about my hair look unkempt whatever the occasion. First impressions are that it is a little stiff both to unfold and pop out the bristles. I found myself really having to put in some effort to push them out and I'm interested to see how I fair once I have acrylics or gels reapplied and if that makes any difference. Otherwise the brush is what I would expect from The Wet Brush and I'm very happy with my purchase even if it's full size, even when folder is on the large size and won't be fitting in any small clutches.

I love Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water for removing my eye make up before going in with my cleansers so I was keen to try the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Gel Wash and see how it compared. As my reservations may attest I really didn't think this purchase through. The Garnier Micellar Cleansing Gel Wash is that, a wash and advises you to concentrate on the eye and lip areas to remove make up. I reach for a micellar water either as a first stage in cleansing or for evenings when I flop into bed and feel the short walk to the bathroom to use a flannel and running water too much so to use the Cleansing Gel would require my being in the bathroom and if I'm in the bathroom I would reach for a cleansing oil or similar. That said how would this affordable option compare to what are often my high priced variations in the bathroom.

In honesty I prefer a cleansing oil to remove my make up, or simply the micellar water for eye make up remove in the first instance. I don't often wear heavy make up so whilst of course cleansing is necessary and I do dabble in the double cleanse there is only so much attention I need and Garnier Micellar is 'nice' it's not something I'd be rushing to repurchase. My skin isn't left dry after use although I have been following up with a luxurious Kypris cream cleanser and then heading straight into the rest of my regime.

One point of note that has surprised me most is that it actually stings my eyes on occasion which the micellar water does not. It was literally like I had got soap in my eyes. If you're looking for a first cleanse to remove make up and want an affordable option to combine with a higher end 'on the face' cleanser then you could look at this. Just proceed with caution if you have sensitive eyes.

Moving on to dry shampoos and the ridiculousness of purchasing two new cans when there is a plenty already at home, but as I said, it fit the theme. First is Batiste 2 in 1 Dry Shampoo which I thought I'd try after dabbling with  Batiste Instant Conditioner*.  Recent months I've been able to find more success with dry shampoos in-between washes thanks to my blonde balayage and it's really the darker roots which need some more attention. Also being at home by myself more often in recent months due to my redundancy I'm less inclined to wash my hair and reach for a can of dry shampoo. This is a sweet scent, a little more powdery than I usually expect but it does indeed refresh my roots and I love the cocoa and cashmere scent.

Moving onto the newer dry shampoo brand on the block and the fresh release from Colab, Paradise Dry Shampoo which has been doing the rounds and I'm sure those of you who know me won't be surprised that I 'had to have' the flamingo print can.

Flamingos aside I am a Colab fan, particularly the Extreme Volume range I wanted to give this a try and it's another scent, more mature than Batiste sweeter offering, that I have enjoyed. For only £1.73 this is such a good product and whilst I still prefer the Extreme Volume range and will soon return I'm sure to reaching for dry shampoo to give a little oomph and texture to my hair it does indeed help allow my day or two from washing. 

Accessorize's newest perfume release is Love Lily* is a great scent which you can buy from Accessorize branches or The Fragrance Shop. Firstly if you have smelt this fragrance and you can help tell me what it is that it reminds me of and I can't put my finger on - it's driving me crazy.

I've been enjoying the fruity and sweet fragrance which is unlike me but perhaps I'm ready for Summer and preparing for my holiday to St Lucia in seven weeks. I always imagine sweet perfumes are for the younger crowd and I'd suggest the bottle is young without being twee and it's pink flower in the lid doesn't look offensively out of place next to my Chanel bottles. If you're looking at budgeting in 2017 and want a fragrance for under £20 then this is worth checking out.

What new releases have made their way into your shopping basket?

*this post contains press samples and / or affiliate links

November Beauty Empties

This months empties saw me say goodbye to some favourites so with a heavy heart (melodrama at it's best) let's start with last months favourite products my Toni & Guy Shampoo and Conditioner* duo. I always feel like my hair gets used to certain products and it did seem the case with this duo. My love of them in the beginning and frequent use of them, unlike others when I swap brands, made it seem towards the end it wasn't doing it's job. Don't let that put you off though as they were great at first.

When it was time to repurchase the Garnier Micellar Water I decided to give the version for Sensitive Skin a try. I don't have sensitive skin per say but thought I'd see if there was a different to the product. For me I saw no difference so I will probably return to the original formula. It's pink. It looks prettier what can I say.

Another Wet Brush bites the dust and am I glad that Boots is stocking them now. I can see myself amassing numerous advantage card points and stocking up on 3 for 2's when the time comes I do go through these so quickly. I have added one to my Christmas List and was using another brand of brush in the interim but I couldn't live without it so I repurchased. This is definitely my must have of 2015.

Another product that I can gain advantage card points on and I was sorry to see go was Liz Earle Superskin Face Serum*. As a beauty blogger I'm lucky enough to receive numerous products and as such have an extensive stock of products to pick and choose from. For this reason when I come to the end of the product, certainly in cases where I have an instant replacement I'll rarely be seen scrapping the bottom of a jar. In the case of this serum when the pump dispenser was struggling I unscrewed the pump and would use the tube to  scrap out what was left so I could use every inch. It may have a £48 price tag but it's totally worth it. As a day time serum I loved using this. Somewhere between a cream and gel texture it was light enough to use in the day and left my skin looking near perfect. This was a real hit for me and the only reason I will not be repurchasing immediately is that large stash of skincare I mentioned.

The Balance Me Pure Skin Facial Wash was a disappointing product for me, for personal reasons only. A magazine freebie and one added to my rotation as I try to use the products I have before buying others. I first starting using this during one of my holidays and because of the reasons I will get to I decided to use it back home so I could move it on quickly. The first problem was the scent. It was too floral smelling for my tastes and in the morning I definitely need something to enjoy to avoid getting the day off to a bad start. The next was it's texture. Most of my cleansers and balms have a lighter more creamy, gel or balm type. This felt thick and similar to a shower gel if I were to compare it too anything. Other than those personal niggles it did the job and didn't cause any adverse effects, only maybe to my mood. 

Without harping on about this excessive stash of mine, mascaras are another product I seem to have too many off. I'm sure they're supposed to dry out quickly and I certainly remember back in my use and replace YSL Mascara days I was repurchasing constantly but even this diddy Benefit Roller Lash didn't seem to disappear quickly. I have taken to using one mascara (give or take different event requirements) on a daily basis in an effort to use what I have up and mascara are one of those products I can instantly see whether I do or don't like. Benefit Roller Lash I did like and would be lining up to repurchase now if I could. It gives the perfect day to night lash effect, not thick nor heavy but enough to fan and lengthen the lashes. 

And we end with Hurraw! Lip Balm* a minty balm that has sat alongside me as I watched TV at home. Organic, vegan and moisturising and leaving soft lips with a cooling sensation after application. 

What have your beauty empties been this month?

*this post contains press samples 

Products I used up | Ibiza Edition

When I travel that means you get a bonus empties post of all the things I managed to use whilst on holiday. Here's what found it's way into the bins of Ibiza 

Liz Earle Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash
I'm a little annoyed as I have a full size of this body wash and intended to return home with this mini size empty and ready to refill for future trips but unfortunately in my haste of packing it was thrown into the bin. Moving past my frustrations this is a delicious body wash to use and kind to all due to the naturally active ingredients - its even suitable for your babies. Definitely one to try if you have skin that is a little sensitive as it doesn't contain any 'nasties'.

Gillette Venus & Olay Razor
My favourite razors are the Gilette Venus & Olay type which are perfect for leg shaving, especially when doing it almost daily like I have to whilst on holiday. I could probably get a little more than a week out of one head but for ease and packing purposes it worked out for me to take one of the individually packaged heads for the week. You can read my full Gillette Venue & Olay review here.

ESPA Optimal Skin ProCleanser
I received this mini cleanser with my Tatler subscription and thought it perfect to take along as my morning cleanse whilst on holiday. I enjoyed using this although it does contain microbeads which I know can be a bone of contention for some. It lasted almost to the full 7 days I was away.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Scrub and Body Buttercream
Body Scrub's and Body Buttercreams from Soap and Glory are favourites of mine and these picks were from the Sugar Crush Gift Set I'd received for Christmas and saved for this trip. The zesty scent was perfect for my beachy conditions and I enjoy using a body scrub on holiday to help keep the tan in tip top condition. The body butter creams are perfect to double up as foot creams too.

Riemann P20 Once a Day SPF30*
Ben & I actually purchased P20 at the airport before heading to Dubai and it worked well against their heat. Unfortunately we couldn't get the spray option and relied on the cream so I was pleased when I was sent the spray option. I travelled to Ibiza alone and the only thing I had any concerns with were how I would get sun protection on my back. This P20 spray was perfect as I was able to angle and spray and know that I was protected without having to approach a stranger and ask 'could you rub this in'. I used this particularly on the days I was going to visit my parents on another part of the island and knew we would be walking around the resort  rather than sitting round the pool all day when reapplication was possible.

The Wet Brush, Classic
I am not onto my third Wet Brush, this one being my second. After trips to Dubai and Ibiza as well as some random overnight stays it's safe to say it doesn't travel well. I love this brush but unfortunately when shoved into bags the bristles are not sturdy enough to stand up to conditions and I did notice that it wasn't performing as well towards the end of my trip so it was time to say goodbye.

And of course a trusty Toothbrush found it's way into the bin with a new one waiting at home for my return.

The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins
My reading habits have remained slack of late and I'm sure reading isn't the top of everyones Ibiza packing list but for me, travelling alone I wanted to ensure I had something to get my teeth into, especially as I had a two hour train journey before I even got to board a plane. I had read about Girl on the Train being the new Gone Girl (although I haven't read that either) so I thought I'd give it a try. Usually I wouldn't dream of taking a hardback on holiday with me but because I was so intrigued to read the story I purchased a copy. I enjoyed reading this and found it perfect for holidaying because of the way it was designed with easy breaks so you could pick up and put down as necessary. I'm not sure I think it's deserved the amazing reviews as it's not amazing, just good. It felt almost simplistic and I pretty much guessed who the 'guilty one' was early on. Is it worth a read, yes but is it as 'thrilling' as reviews make it? Not in my opinion.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash
I was able to get about four washes out of this body wash and like the other Sugar Crush products enjoyed doing so. More of a cream than a gel it made for quite a luxurious experience. I'd definitely purchase this in full size.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Mask*
Hydraluron sheek masks are my travel must have. I also use one after a flight, even if Ibiza's was a mere two hours. In this instance I used in the middle of my trip after daily exposure to the sun, the air-conditioning of my room and dehydration from heat and one or two drinks. I've said before I'm not a big fan of the serum but these masks work far better for a heavy duty hit when needed.

Tweezerman Pointed Tweezers
I much prefer using pointed tweezers than slanted, I find they are easier to use and more effective. Unfortunately these had suffered some damage so were not meeting at the ends any more. I had since replaced and threw these into my travel bags to use as necessary whilst away.

Diptyque Eau Moheli EDT
As you will see in the photo I had an accident and smashed the bottle of Diptyque's Eau Moheli somewhere in the middle of my trip. Yes there was almost tears. I have had this scent for almost two years, only bringing it out in the Summer and I really enjoy using it. For a floral scent it's surprising as usually I'm not a fan but ylang ylang and spices make for something more pleasing. I'm definitely keen to repurchase this fragrance, and in full size as I do miss it.

OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Conditioner
Purchased for Dubai and still lasting for Ibiza I was able to use up the remaining bottle of the OGX Coconut Milk Conditioner. I've mentioned OGX quite a few times now since my introduction and will definitely buy full size and try other types from the range.

What products do you find you use up on holiday?

*PR Sample

Products I used up in Ibiza

When I travel that means you get a bonus empties post of all the things I managed to use whilst on holiday. Here's what found it's way into the bins of Ibiza 

Liz Earle Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash
I'm a little annoyed as I have a full size of this body wash and intended to return home with this mini size empty and ready to refill for future trips but unfortunately in my haste of packing it was thrown into the bin. Moving past my frustrations this is a delicious body wash to use and kind to all due to the naturally active ingredients - its even suitable for your babies. Definitely one to try if you have skin that is a little sensitive as it doesn't contain any 'nasties'.

Gillette Venus & Olay Razor
My favourite razors are the Gilette Venus & Olay type which are perfect for leg shaving, especially when doing it almost daily like I have to whilst on holiday. I could probably get a little more than a week out of one head but for ease and packing purposes it worked out for me to take one of the individually packaged heads for the week. You can read my full Gillette Venue & Olay review here.

ESPA Optimal Skin ProCleanser
I received this mini cleanser with my Tatler subscription and thought it perfect to take along as my morning cleanse whilst on holiday. I enjoyed using this although it does contain microbeads which I know can be a bone of contention for some. It lasted almost to the full 7 days I was away.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Scrub and Body Buttercream
Body Scrub's and Body Buttercreams from Soap and Glory are favourites of mine and these picks were from the Sugar Crush Gift Set I'd received for Christmas and saved for this trip. The zesty scent was perfect for my beachy conditions and I enjoy using a body scrub on holiday to help keep the tan in tip top condition. The body butter creams are perfect to double up as foot creams too.

Riemann P20 Once a Day SPF30*
Ben & I actually purchased P20 at the airport before heading to Dubai and it worked well against their heat. Unfortunately we couldn't get the spray option and relied on the cream so I was pleased when I was sent the spray option. I travelled to Ibiza alone and the only thing I had any concerns with were how I would get sun protection on my back. This P20 spray was perfect as I was able to angle and spray and know that I was protected without having to approach a stranger and ask 'could you rub this in'. I used this particularly on the days I was going to visit my parents on another part of the island and knew we would be walking around the resort  rather than sitting round the pool all day when reapplication was possible.

The Wet Brush, Classic
I am not onto my third Wet Brush, this one being my second. After trips to Dubai and Ibiza as well as some random overnight stays it's safe to say it doesn't travel well. I love this brush but unfortunately when shoved into bags the bristles are not sturdy enough to stand up to conditions and I did notice that it wasn't performing as well towards the end of my trip so it was time to say goodbye.

And of course a trusty Toothbrush found it's way into the bin with a new one waiting at home for my return.

The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins
My reading habits have remained slack of late and I'm sure reading isn't the top of everyones Ibiza packing list but for me, travelling alone I wanted to ensure I had something to get my teeth into, especially as I had a two hour train journey before I even got to board a plane. I had read about Girl on the Train being the new Gone Girl (although I haven't read that either) so I thought I'd give it a try. Usually I wouldn't dream of taking a hardback on holiday with me but because I was so intrigued to read the story I purchased a copy. I enjoyed reading this and found it perfect for holidaying because of the way it was designed with easy breaks so you could pick up and put down as necessary. I'm not sure I think it's deserved the amazing reviews as it's not amazing, just good. It felt almost simplistic and I pretty much guessed who the 'guilty one' was early on. Is it worth a read, yes but is it as 'thrilling' as reviews make it? Not in my opinion.

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash
I was able to get about four washes out of this body wash and like the other Sugar Crush products enjoyed doing so. More of a cream than a gel it made for quite a luxurious experience. I'd definitely purchase this in full size.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Mask*
Hydraluron sheek masks are my travel must have. I also use one after a flight, even if Ibiza's was a mere two hours. In this instance I used in the middle of my trip after daily exposure to the sun, the air-conditioning of my room and dehydration from heat and one or two drinks. I've said before I'm not a big fan of the serum but these masks work far better for a heavy duty hit when needed.

Tweezerman Pointed Tweezers
I much prefer using pointed tweezers than slanted, I find they are easier to use and more effective. Unfortunately these had suffered some damage so were not meeting at the ends any more. I had since replaced and threw these into my travel bags to use as necessary whilst away.

Diptyque Eau Moheli EDT
As you will see in the photo I had an accident and smashed the bottle of Diptyque's Eau Moheli somewhere in the middle of my trip. Yes there was almost tears. I have had this scent for almost two years, only bringing it out in the Summer and I really enjoy using it. For a floral scent it's surprising as usually I'm not a fan but ylang ylang and spices make for something more pleasing. I'm definitely keen to repurchase this fragrance, and in full size as I do miss it.

OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Conditioner
Purchased for Dubai and still lasting for Ibiza I was able to use up the remaining bottle of the OGX Coconut Milk Conditioner. I've mentioned OGX quite a few times now since my introduction and will definitely buy full size and try other types from the range.

What products do you find you use up on holiday?

*PR Sample

July Beauty Haul

I'm still on a mission to use products I have before buying new ones but one or two items have made their way into the empties pile which gave me an opportunity to make some repurchases and of course, one or two other things made their way home with me.

Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Facial Pads

I recently discovered First Aid Beauty's Facial Radiance Pads and really enjoyed using them, so much so that they appeared in my May Favourites and I whizzed through them with some speed. When I reached the end of my small tub I was all set to make a reorder when I received a notification that Superdrug had an offer on the Nip+Fab version. For a steal at just over £5 I couldn't resist giving these a try to see how they compare. I shall report back.

L'Occitane Hand Cream, Vitoria-Regia
This was actually a gift from mum who knows how much I love a hand cream. Also minus the C it's almost named after me. Aquatic Floral notes are how L'Occitane describe this scent and I can't argue with that. It's a nice change from my favoured citrus scents and only Roger & Gallet have come close to  competing with L'Occitane in the hand cream stakes. Whilst the speed with which I go through hand cream these days makes larger tubes more desirable I can't deny enjoy the practicality of these smaller tubes especially for my handbag.

Makeup Revolution Highlighter, Pink Lights
This will be my first foray into Makeup Revolution products and I think I've made a good starting point. With strobing all the rage at the moment and deciding I had a gap in my highlighter I decided to give this a try. I was amazed at the first swatch and whilst yet to dive into using as instructed I'm looking forward to it.

Maybelline BROWdrama
This is my third tube of Maybelline's BROWdrama and it's safe to say I'm a big fan. Another product making it's way to holy grail status I favour this over even the Anastasia Brow Wiz. This product is so quick and easy to use and takes minimal effort. I was even using this on holiday when usually I wouldn't bother worrying about eyebrows whilst lounging round the pool.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer
Was it completely necessary to repurchase this concealer when I have other 'adequate' offerings in my stash? Probably not but continuing the holy grail theme and with an offer on Maybelline products in Superdrug it was thrown into the basket. I don't tend to do much concealer other than dark circles and this works a treat for me. Creamy and easy to blend (adopting Mary Greenwell's patting method of late) this doesn't crease or settle into my fine lines. Hailed as a dupe for the Nars blogger favourite I'm happy with my more affordable offering.

The Wet Brush, Safari Collection

I do love The Wet Brush and this is my third purchase due to them not travelling too well. The delicate bristles can be squashed if you squeeze into a make up bag, you can slightly see some damage already to this one after taking it away for the night last week. Not to self find another brush for travelling but otherwise I have no complaints. I quite enjoy the repurchase of The Wet Brush as it gives me an opportunity to choose a different colour way. As you can see this time I embraced my love of animal prints.

What have you been repurchasing lately?

CLOSED / US Drugstore Beauty Giveaway

Whilst I was in the US last year I threw a few extra beauty bits into my shopping bags to share with readers. For whatever reason they were hidden in the back of a cupboard and I think it's high time I got my giveaway ready for you.

One lucky person could win a goodie bag filled with the following:

The Wet Brush Mini link
I love my Wet Brush as you will know if you're read this post and whilst luggage allowances restricted me to bringing home a full sized one for you I hope a mini to throw in your handbag will be just as pleasing.

NYX Matte Lipstick in Shocking Pink link
If you're looking for a dupe of Mac's Candy Yum Yum then Shocking Pink from the NYX Matte Lipstick range is just for you. This is a long lasting, non drying formula I really enjoying wearing. In fact typing this post it's time to dig my own out.

Victoria Secret Rollerball in Heavenly link
I can't actually tell you from my own experience what Heavenly by Victoria Secret smells like as this was a free gift during one of many large sprees in store. It's apparently one of their first fragrances and I can tell you from reading online that it is a warm fragrance with white musk, sandalwood, vanilla and white peony notes. If you're lucky enough to win report back and share what you made of it.

Milani Baked Blush in Deliziouso Pink link
Milani Baked Blushes are highly regarded in beauty circles and deservedly so. Don't let this bright pink blusher scare you its very wearable with a light hand. It's perfect as we head into Spring. Whilst I have this blush in my own collection I've never reviewed it here but you can find all you need to know on Temptalia here

Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara link
I actually brought this mascara for myself but due to an excessive collection of mascara's I decided to throw it in to the giveaway pile. If it made it's way onto my shopping list I had obviously seen it reviewed somewhere.

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk link
Another product I picked up was also seen on American YouTuber's channels and I reviewed my copy here. Unfortunately it creases on me but as an eyeshadow base it's fantastic. Reviews are mixed across the board so I hope that if you're lucky enough to win you'll be in the thumbs up camp.

Bath & Bodyworks Hand Sanitizers in Pumpkin Pecan Waffles & Vanilla Berry Sorbet link
You also have the opportunity to win two of the famous Bath & Bodyworks hand sanitizers. I picked up two different scents for you, Pumpkin Pecan Waffles and Vanilla Berry Sorbet. Both smell amazing and who can fault any of these little bottles.

Wet n Wild Comfort Zone Eyeshadow Palette link
I'm a big fan of Wet n Wild's afforable eyeshadow palettes and they're quality is comparible to Mac and other high end brands. I reviewed the Comfort Zone palette in this post and the fact remains I'm still a big fan and love to bust this out regularly.

This giveaway is open to all UK residents (sorry overseas friends)

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Favourites Repurchased

I missed out on favourites in January mainly because I was so busy or suffering from a cold for anything to stand out. I did however make a few repurchases.

Batiste Dry Shampoo, Medium & Brunette link

An old faithful made it's way into the December empties pile and was promptly repurchased. Funnily enough it was this time last year when I repurchased it. Whilst I'm a daily hair washer over the weekends I have been known to rely on just a spray of Batiste to get me through the day. I also find it comes in handy for bad hair days when hair is looking a little lifeless and I need something to provide a bit of oomph. 

Radox Herbal Bath Relax link

Radox has been mentioned many many times on my blog and you'll know I'm a fan. When you can pick up a bubble bath for £1 that fills the bathroom with a wonderful scent then why would you not? I recently tried another brands relax/lavendar scented product and it didn't hit the spot. Radox on the other hand provides the perfect evening bath.

The Wet Brush link
I love my Wet Brush which you can read about in this post but unfortunately it was starting to look a little sorry for itself so I decided to start 2015 with a brand new one. I don't think I would ever use another brush now.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Brunette link
If you read this post you will know that I tried to replace this whilst in the US last year and actually picked up the brow pencil which wasn't discovered till I returned home. Whilst I don't use this product daily due to favouring the speed of the next product I'm going to mention it is always in my make up bag in case I want to go a little heavier with the brows.

Maybelline BROWdrama link
This is my go to lazy girl eyebrow treatment. If it's a 'special occasion' I go all out for brows but day to day a quick sweep of this across my lashes is sufficient to provide a great natural look. You can read my full review of this product here.

So there are some favourite products I've recently repurchased. Have you had to stock up on old favourites recently?

December Empties

Like my December favourites I'm 'late' with the products I used up last month and I better get posting as January's are hot on the heels. Towards the end of 2014 I made a conscious decision to start using products I own rather than adding more 'just because'.

Batiste Dry Shampoo, Dark & Deep Brown link
A staple in my haircare line up is Batiste Dry Shampoo. I wear the Dark & Deep Brown shade which obviously compliments my darker hair that other brands and shades don't. I tend to wash my hair daily but find this dry shampoo refreshens nicely before a night out or equally on a lazy day at home. Will I repurchase? Of course, and stay tuned for a haul in which I demonstrate that! It's up - you can read it here.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes Mascara link
I probably could've got some more wear out of the Tarte mascara which I would say was one of my favourites for 2014. Unfortunately as the photo shows the regular lid broke towards the end of it's like and it was made difficult to open without using my teeth - not ideal. I would definitely repurchase again although my collection of mascaras is excessive and as such I need to work my way through those first.

The Body Shop Body Polish, Vanilla Bliss link
Vanilla Bliss Body Polish is just that, bliss. A present from Christmas 2013 that I put away as we went into Summer and brought out again last Winter. I love the scent of vanilla and I can definitely vouch it was more of a polish than a scrub. It's creamy yet softly gritty texture meant you could use alone without adding a regular shower gel. I do have the shower gel to compliment this and it's currently in my bathroom being used. I would definitely repurchase this as an alternative to other scrubs when I was something to gently exfoliate my skin rather than going in heavy duty.

The Wet Brush link
I have posted about my love for The Wet Brush, battled against the Tangle Teezer in this post and my stance hasn't changed. So much love do I have for this brush that as it was starting to show signs of regular use I paid the UK price via Cult Beauty (repurchase post here) to replace it. A traditional shaped brush that works through hair like a dream, it's another 2014 favourite.

Vichy Idealia Smoothing & Illuminating Cream* link
I love the Vichy Idealia Range and you will have seen this moisturiser pop up in morning skincare regime as well as the Idealia Serum and Eyes products in this post. And spoiler... it's also going to feature in my 2014 skincare favourites coming up later this week. Until I was introduced to the 'smoothing and illuminating cream' I hadn't found a day moisturisers that particularly wowed me. I love the light almost gel like consistency of this product and how my skin appears even before I slap on the make up. It's light enough for Summer and looking online I see there is one available for dry skin which would work for this time of year when my skin is on that side of the fence. Again I would repurchase and the only reason I haven't yet is my challenge to use products I already own.

Chanel Nail Polish link
Last Friday I posted about my Chanel nail polish collection and how following some use of the festive period I was using them to confirm my fears that the formula just isn't for me. Two at least have been used in their entirety, 18 Rouge Noir the classic shade we all know and love and 127 Irresistible which was a limited edition shade from some years ago. As last weeks post alludes I will not be replacing and am now on the hunt for a Rouge Noir dupe as it is a favourite shade of mine.

Ole Henriksen The Clean Truth Cleansing Clothes: Brightening link
Shock horror - cleansing wipes! It will come as no surprise that during December, the month of late nights and hangovers I emptied a pack of cleansing wipes. Whilst I generally follow a more pleasing skincare regime there are just some occasions when the fact I use a face wipes should be considered a success rather than what my pillow wipes off during the night. I purchased this face wipes during one of my US trips following some talk on the usual blogs and YouTube channels. I wasn't particularly impressed. Ultimately I don't want to use face wipes as they can lead me to be lazy. I purchased these under the heading 'if I'm going to be 'bad' use a better brand' but I didn't find them any better than the Simple wipes I used during an overnight stop off. Of course I'm sure if I looked into ingredients etc then  I might be swayed but for the few occasions I use face wipes I can't justify the cost. As such this would be a no to repurchasing.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water link
I 'battled' the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water against the L'Oreal Version in this post and Garnier won. Whilst there was little difference I noticed at the time Garnier just pipped the post. Having finished this bottle and took to using a bottle from L'Oreal I had in my drawer before repurchasing I've noticed a bigger difference in how dry my skin feels. As I've mentioned my skin is drier at this time of year so likely doesn't help but I definitely find a slight tightness in my skin from L'Oreal which I don't with Garnier. I use a micellar water to remove my eye and/or face make up before going in with a cleanser of an evening. I seem to be going through the L'Oreal version far quicker than the Garnier but as soon as that bottle sees itself in an empties post I will be repurchasing.

Soap & Glory Hand Food link
Finally, no surprises is another hand cream. This small travel size has floated around in bags, hand luggage and the like and finally come to it's end. A full size sits on my desk at work and I'm sure I'll repurchase another travel size for my Summer holidays. The scent is amazing and product itself does what it should. If you're interested in giving it a try they currently have 3 for 2 on Soap & Glory products so it's a good time to stock up.

I'd love to know your thoughts on any of these products, especially face wipes and micellar waters.

*PR Sample

The Wet Brush or the Tangle Teezer

The Wet Brush 

Tangle Teezer*

Is there anyone else who like me thought the whole Tangle Teezer love was a big of a fad? Despite friends having Tangle Teezer's in their handbags I couldn't get my head round this small odd shaped brush being of any use and stuck with my trusty, traditional Denmans brushes quite happily.

I first had an opportunity to use a Tangle Teezer when I received the Aqua Splash version in a Selfridges Beauty Box. I had to concede that the Aqua Splash was rather good at sorting through the tangled mess that my hair could be in but again the shape was rather odd to me and I couldn't quite get the grip on it right (shall I blame my left handedness?). That said it now sits in my bathroom and is a faithful companion when I want to brush a conditioners and masks through my locks.

The more traditional Tangle Teezer style that we know and love was a gift in a goodie bag last year and I still wasn't in any rush to give it a try but ended up throwing this into my hand luggage bag for my recent holiday as it's detachable and protective cover would stop the inevitable attack that I would receive form my usual brush as the teeth found their way under my nails when rummaging around. Ok I get it they're a bloody good brush for brushing the tangles out of your hair and I'm sure there's many of us who wishes these were around when we were children and could have avoided some hideous incidents with our parents and hairbrush at bedtimes.

Then there was a new kid in town, Tangle Teezers were forgotten and it was all about the Wet Brush. Hailing from American a few bloggers had posted reviews prior to my trip and were singing it's praises so of course it was one of those things I jotted down to look out for. Again I still wasn't too fussed, the Tangle Teezer was good but it hadn't changed my life and again, I had the trusty Denmans brush that worked perfectly well for my needs and to be frank, the Wet Brush didn't really look anything special.

I didn't find it in any of the drugstores, I even tried a couple of hair salons when passing and received blank stares. I did find them in one store but aesthetics got the better of me and I didn't like the design so I passed up on it. Then whilst strolling the aisles of Target I came across the pink beauty and when I saw the price (barely £5) it was worth trying.

It wasn't until I got home that I gave the Wet Brush a try and I love it. For one I love the fact it's a traditional style of a brush with a handle (which is non slip to avoid those hair flying out your hand moments, come on we've all had them!) which makes it easier for me to use than the palm of the hand style of the Tangle Teezer.

Brushing my hair seems like such a quicker task now and whilst my hair has never been too much of a trauma any struggles with knots are in the past which my research tells me is down to the 'intelliflex' technology giving the thin, strong and flexible bristles 'brains'! Whether the ball tip bristles are stimulating circulation near my scalp, feeding my follicles and encouraging new growth is yet to be seen.

The great news about the Wet Brush is that Cult Beauty have got their hands on them so UK residents can easily buy them although sadly for double the price of those in easy reach of a Target in the US.

Have you tried the Wet Brush yet or are you a Tangle Teezer fan?