Showing posts with label Beauty Graveyard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beauty Graveyard. Show all posts

Monday, 22 December 2014

The Last Ever Beauty Graveyard Post

I have decided to put an end to my Beauty Graveyard posts and this will be the final one. I actually got a weird kick from saving up all my empty containers of used beauty products, but I am just finding these posts pretty dull now. If I find something I love I tend to stick to it, which meant the 'graveyard' was becoming repetitive and if I'm finding it boring to write, I'm sure its even more boring to read!

I posted my first Beauty Graveyard post back in September 2011! I hope you can tell my photography skills have broadened since then, also my taste in perfume! Although the Beauty Graveyard posts will be no more, I have a new idea but lets just say you are going to have to wait a year to see it! 

Onto the empties!

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer
If I could award myself for finishing a makeup item, I would for this concealer alone! I cannot tell you how many years I have had this and its not because I don't like it, I bloody love the stuff and its my all time favourite concealer, but due to its industrial strength you only need the tiniest amount. My pride is tinged with sadness at seeing this go, but I know we will be reunited!

Hourglass Brow Sculpting Pencil in Soft Brunette
My holy grail brow pencil, I have lost count of how many of these I have got through now and yes I have already repurchased it. I like a full,  ungroomed brow and this is perfect for achieving that look.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream
I am not a massive BB cream wearer but of the ones I've tried, this is my favourite. It provides just enough coverage to make you look acceptable but the best thing is the healthy glow it gives your skin. A couple of times I've worn this people have commented on how good my skin looked, huzzah!

Estee Lauder Double Wear Brush on Glow BB Highlighter
I can't say this highlighter particularly blew me away. Every brand has released one of these click pen under eye highlighters, so it has to be something special to stand out from the rest. I actually found this to be quite concealing and I would have preferred it to be more brightening. I wouldn't buy again as there are cheaper highlighter pens which are just as good, if not better (e.g. L'oreal Lumi Touch). 

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
I am a big fan of the Laura Mercier foundation primers, although I do prefer the radiant one to the original formula. These really do extend the wear time of your makeup and are well worth the money but since I discovered MACs Skin Base, it will be a while before I go back to Laura Mercier.

Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara
Having a mascara exclusively for your bottom lashes seems a bit excessive I know, but this stuff is amazing! Mascara always smudges on my bottom lashes, even waterproof but this stuff doesn't budge. Also I love the teeny tiny brush because you can really define your bottom lashes and you get a feathery natural finish, no clumpy spider lashes here! Already repurchased.

L'oreal Colour Riche Nail Polish in Boudoir Rose '204'
I have mentioned these mini L'oreal nail polishes quite a few times now on my blog and 204 is by far my favourite shade. You can see what it looks like on the nails in this post here. This is a beautiful soft rose colour and I'm already a quarter of the way through my second bottle.

Tarte Lights Camera Flashes Mascara
This mascara is ahhhmazing. It gives volume but it also really lengthens and separates, I love it. I should also add that this stuff isn't waterproof but it does not budge. 
As you cant get this in the UK yet (boooo) I have a secret stash to keep me going!

Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel
This is one of those acid exfoliator type products, which removes dead skin and brightens. I can't say I noticed any real improvement in my skin when using it and as I'm a bit flaky with using face masques, I wouldn't bother to buy this again. 

L'oreal Absolute Makeup Remover Eye and Lip
Initially I really hated this eye makeup remover because its crap at removing waterproof mascara. However, since I discovered the Tarte mascara I haven't worn any waterproof mascara and I can say this is actually quite good. It removes non waterproof mascara easily, no rubbing required, but if you are a waterproof mascara wearer don't even think about it. 

La Roche-Posay Serozinc
You will be seeing this toner in my 2014 end of year favourites! Serozinc is part of La Roche-Posay's Effaclar range, which is designed to target key signs of oily, blemish prone skin. I apply this all over my face after cleansing and follow up with the Effaclar Duo + 
I can honestly say my skin has never looked so good and I am so happy to say that this will finely be available to buy in in the UK shortly!

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +
Probably my best discovery of the year, this cream has transformed my skin and breakouts are no longer something I have to worry about. I have recommended this to my friends who have been equally impressed, so if you are struggling with breakouts give this a go.

MooGoo Blemish Cleansing Moisturiser
As you can see I take my blemish fighting seriously! MooGoo only use natural, organic ingredients in their products which I love and this Blemish Cleansing Moisturiser does exactly what it says on the tube. This and the Kate Somerville Goat Milk are my two favourite moisturisers. 

Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel
My favourite cleanser, god knows how many bottles I have got through this year. I love this because it feels really luxurious on your skin and gets rid of all your makeup in one go, mascara, foundation, lipstick the lot. I rub a blob of this all over my face and then wipe away with a muslin cloth so there's no excuse for not taking your makeup off at the end of the night!

Aussie Mega Instant Conditioner
I love the Aussie Mega shampoo and conditioner. Perfect for greasy hair gals who hate product build up.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo and Creme Rinse Conditioner
The Surf shampoo and conditioner were a major discovery for me this year. I am not a fan of sleek hair, I'm much more of a wash and go type girl and I like my hair to have some kind of natural movement/wave. These really help achieve that and leave my hair feeling so bouncy and clean. The price does make me wince, but well worth every penny.

Tresemme Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo
I cannot tell you how much I hated this stuff, mainly because it says its translucent but its not at all! This was just like every other horrible dry shampoo and left with me horrible ashy toned hair. NEVER AGAIN!

COLAB Dry Shampoo London and Rio
Its only taken me 8 years but I have finally found a dry shampoo I love! Oh COLAB I f****** love you. This is pretty much invisible, although if you spray too much or too close, you do see some powder residue. Its a much lighter powder (nothing like the horror of Batiste) so you cant feel it in your hair at all. You don't even want to know how many bottles of this Ive got stashed away in my drawer now! Oh and the London scent is by far my favourite!

The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Shower Oil
I used to love the L'Occitane almond shower oil and I thought this might be a cheaper dupe for that. While I can't say this is as luxurious as the L'Occitane version, it was lovely and was nicer to use than most shower gels. I would definitely get this again and would love to try more from their Wild Argan range.

Mandarin Spa Bali Santi Nurturing Body Milk
I got this in a goody bag from a Cosmo event and have to say I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the coconut scent and the consistency was nice and light, not greasy or sticky at all.

Vaseline Spray and Go Body Moisturiser
The best body moisturiser for lazy people like me. This makes the hideous task of moisturising a lot less painful and theres none of that horrible waiting round in your towel, as it dries instantly.

Thursday, 25 September 2014

Beauty Graveyard

Oskia London Renaissance Cleansing Gel

This cleanser is really good at removing makeup, even waterproof mascara but it seriously irritated my eyes. It was expensive, so I did finish the tube but I wouldn't buy it again.


Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

I love Micellar Water for removing makeup, its so quick and easy. If you are trying to wean yourself off makeup wipes this is the stuff you need, just pour some on a cotton pad and it will take off all your makeup. I'm not particularly fussy on the brand of Micellar Water but the Garnier one is by far the best value for money.


Kate Somerville Goat Milk

My beloved Goat Milk, why can you only be bought in America *cries into pillow*
I am really fussy when it comes to face moisturisers and because I have combination skin, I hate any that feel overly rich and heavy. Goat Milk is the perfect light consistency and I actually feel like my skin looks and feels better when I use this. 


Indeed Labs Hydraluron

I'm not even going to try and explain what this stuff does, I will leave it up to skincare expert Caroline Hirons. In summary though, I like it a lot!


Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel

I mention Yes To a lot on my blog because I think they are pretty unique in the fact that they are a natural organic brand but with cool modern branding. The range has all been repackaged and you can now finally get it in Boots! This eye gel had a lovely cooling effect when you applied it (great for de-puffing) and is great for younger skins or if you are just starting out with an eye cream and don't want anything too heavy.


La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +

My skin saviour! A few months ago I was having a bit of a traumatic time with my skin, its not fun getting spots in your late twenties (to be fair its never fun, no matter your age!) Since using this every night before I moisturise, I have seen a dramatic improvement in my skin and now only suffer from the occasional spot (touch wood, touch wood!) I have lost count of how many tubes I have got through now!


Nivea Daily Essentials Double Effect Eye Makeup Remover

If I remember rightly, I gave this eye makeup remover a bit of a shitty review initially but since I haven't been wearing waterproof mascara it actually works really well. The bottom line, great for removing non waterproof eye makeup.


Yes to Carrots Nourishing Exfoliating Facial Cleanser

Another Yes To product, this time from their Carrots range. I really like to use a traditional gritty exfoliator in the shower so my skin feels really clean and the fact that this contains 99% natural ingredients is even better.


NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

I really think this concealer is over rated. Its too light  for decent spot coverage but not brightening enough for under eye coverage. I would pick the Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection concealer over this any day and its about a third of the price!


Illamasqua Brow and Lash Gel

God I love this brow gel. Keeps your eyebrows in place all day.


L'Oreal Lumi Magique Light Infusing Foundation

This foundation has now won its way into my foundation hall of fame. It gives your skin the healthiest glow and feels lovely and light, not heavy at all. One of my all time favourite foundations. 


Burberry Lip Cover in English Rose

Lipstick is my thing. I feel naked without it and English Rose is my all time favourite, my perfect 'nude'. Of course I have already repurchased a fresh tube!


Hand Chemistry Heel Hydration Complex

This is definitely a case of TMI but I do suffer with dry feet! I saw this on a new display in Boots and was intrigued enough to give it a try. What appealed to me is that this promises to re balance below surface hydration, rather than focusing on removing the hard skin. This is quite pricey for a foot cream but is definitely the best I have tried. I have already bought a new tube.


Maison Martin Margiela Replica Beach Walk

If you have read my blog for some time you will know how much I love Maison Martin Margiela's Replica line of fragrances. Beach Walk is the perfect Summer scent and the name describes the scent perfectly. 


Soap & Glory Clean On Me

I do love the smell of this Soap and Glory shower gel and I love taking the minis away with me on holiday.


Bobbi Brown Almost Bare 

This is my signature scent, I've lost count of how many bottles of this perfume I have got through and if Bobbi Brown ever discontinued it, there would be some serious tears before bedtime. 


Lush Ocean Salt Face and Body Scrub

I was seriously impressed with this body scrub from Lush. It worked so well because it was really gritty, my skin felt so smooth and soft after using this. It also smells like the beach, which makes it a winner for me. I would definitely buy this again. 


Zoya Remove +

My favourite nail polish remover and the only one I use because other brands just dry out my nails too badly.


Aussie Mega Shampoo

One of my favourite shampoos. Perfect if you are a greasy hair sufferer and want a shampoo that leaves your hair feeling really clean, without stripping out the moisture. 


Bumble and Bumble Hairdressers Invisible Oil Travel Set

I have actually used up two of these travel sets now. In the set you get a travel size shampoo, conditioner and primer. The shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling so soft and bouncy and the primer acts as a detangler, leave in conditioner and heat protector all in one. I have already purchased the full size of the primer and will definitely buy the full size shampoo and conditioner at some point.


Lee Stafford Original Dry Shampoo

Having dark hair I struggle with dry shampoos, as I find they always make my hair look ashy. This Lee Stafford dry shampoo is one of the better ones I have tried and its also available in different shades depending on your hair colour.


Sanctuary Spa Body Butter

I think this was a left over smelly from Christmas! 


Vaseline Spray & Go Body Moisturiser

This is my new favourite body moisturiser, its not overly moisturising but its so quick and sinks in straight away. Ideal for people like me who find the whole moisturising process a chore!


Nivea Body Lotion Express Hydration

This was fine as body moisturisers go but I will be sticking to my Vaseline spray for the time being.




Friday, 8 August 2014

Beauty Graveyard

Do you know whats more satisfying than buying a new beauty product? Using one up! 
Here are some mini reviews on all the beauty products I have finished recently.

Living Proof Prime Style Extender

A primer for your hair might sound weird but I actually really love this stuff. I find it gives my hair some style without doing much else to it. If I do curl my hair however, I'm convinced the curls last longer with this. I also like to use this like a serum and will rub a blob through my hair once its curled to smooth any frizz. I will definitely go back to this but at the moment I am using Bumble and Bumble's new hair primer which is amazing as well. I think hair primer is definitely the new thing!

VO5 Refresh Me Quick Dry Shampoo

As a rule, me and dry shampoos don't generally get along but I have been on a mission to find the best one. This one by VO5 is my favourite so far, mainly for the smell alone. Although this is quite white and powdery, its a light powder so blends easily into my hair and doesn't leave it looking ashy. 

Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray

My favourite sea salt/wave spray. Gives my hair those real beachy waves that I crave but doesn't leave your hair feeling crispy or matted like other sea salt sprays.

Charles Worthington Volume and Bounce Texturising Spray

The best of the budget texturising sprays. This gives volume but also gives your hair some hold, not something I would use on a daily basis but good for a night out or on second day hair that needs a bit of oomph.

Moroccanoil Treatment

I have been using Moroccanoil for a number of years now and its definitely earned its holy grail status. I use this every time I wash my hair and simply rub one pump into the ends of my towel dried hair. Without this my ends are all frizzy and nasty, which is why I don't think we can ever be parted. Although its pricey, a bottle lasts me around 6 months and that's using it every other day. 
I have already repurchased this but in the lighter version, which so far I am loving.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray

Although the Oribe spray is my all time favourite, the Bumble and Bumble is my current favourite ;) 
I spray this through my hair when its towel dried and then go to bed. When I wake up and brush my hair through its got so much more volume and natural wave. Brilliant for people like me who don't heat style their hair on a daily basis.

Oribe Dry Texturising Spray

Unlike the Charles Worthington this doesn't have any hold to it, so I tend to use this more like a dry shampoo and just use it on my hair when its looking a bit limp. Like all Oribe products, its eye wateringly expensive so i don't know if I could justify buying this again!

Vatika Naturals Sweet Almond Moisturising Shampoo and Conditioner

My mum likes to try natural beauty products and she found this shampoo and conditioner for me from Vatika which is an Indian brand. This left my hair feeling so sleek and shiny that I could not stop touching it! 

Lush Big Sea Salt Shampoo

I haven't used this shampoo for ages but I was reminded of it recently and wanted to try it again. This is a really gritty shampoo with lumps of salt that you can feel and touch but don't let that put you off. This gives my hair some serious volume and its so nice and refreshing to use. 

Bumble and Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo

My favourite shampoo and conditioner. This leaves my hair feeling bouncy and soft. As you can probably tell, I gravitate towards any hair products that promise a beachy wave!

Aussie Mega Instant Conditioner

I love the Aussie Mega range as its clarifying, so leaves my greasy hair feeling squeaky clean without it feeling stripped or dry.

Soap & Glory One Heck of a Blot Pressed Powder

I wasn't overly fussed with this powder. It wasn't bad but I don't think it was the best at controlling shine.  On the whole I find Soap & Glory to be pretty expensive for a high street brand and the Rimmel Stay Matte which is less than half the price does a better job. I wouldn't buy this again.

Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF30

This is one of the best foundations for Summer as its a) waterproof and b) has a really high SPF. I also like that its light and not heavy on the skin. I would definitely look at buying this again next Summer.

MAC Opulash Mascara

This is in limited edition packaging but this is a permanent mascara in MAC's range. The brush is massive but it gives good volume and this has to be one of the most long wearing mascaras I have ever tried. Its not waterproof, but on me will last all day without smudging or flaking. 
I have found other mascaras I prefer since, so I don't think I will be repurchasing this anytime soon. 

Benefit They're Real Mascara

Possibly my all time favourite mascara, I just don't know if I'm ready to make such a sweeping statement. Also this mascara gets better after you have been using it for a couple of weeks and its dried out a little so if you are unsure at first, persevere!

Hourglass Hidden Corrective Concealer 

This is an amazing thick but creamy under eye concealer, which will give you some serious Kim K highlighting. Its great for touching up at the end of the day because it instantly makes you look brighter and more awake. 

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

This is a real cult beauty product but it just didn't wow me. You apply this before your makeup and its meant to brighten and tighten your skin. As tightening isn't a skin concern for me at the moment, I just don't think I could really appreciate it. 
I wouldn't buy this again, not for a few years at least!

Vaseline Spray & Go Body Moisturiser Cocoa Radiant

As you can see I'm still in that lazy mood when it comes to body moisturising! This is lovely to use in the summer as well because its so cooling when you spray it. Definitely not the most effective of moisturisers but the most painless.

Yes to Carrots Hydrating Shower Gel

I'm so excited that Yes to is becoming more widely available and that you can now buy the range in Boots. I hope this is just the beginning of more natural brands becoming more easily available. 
Yes to have given their packaging a bit of a revamp so they are looking a bit sleeker these days, still the amazing all natural, nasty chemical free goodness inside though.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +

I don't like being dependant upon things but I fear I am now dependant on this for keeping spots at bay. I use this every night before I moisturise and the improvement in my skin has been really noticeable. I still suffer from breakouts around that particular time of the month but for the other 3 weeks my skin is clearer than ever. Already stocked up on a new tube.

Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel

My favourite makeup cleanser. Its so quick, I just rub it all over my face and rinse off with a muslin cloth or flannel. It removes your eye makeup as well as your face makeup and doesn't irritate my eyes at all, unlike my current cleanser. I will definitely be coming back to this. 

That sense of achievement when you finish a beauty product, you cant beat it! I am considering doing a  "project pan" for those of you non beauty bloggers, this is where you have to use up a certain amount of makeup before buying anything new. If you have managed to successfully complete such a thing let me know and pass on your words of advice!

Tuesday, 27 May 2014

Beauty Graveyard

My Beauty Graveyard posts are where I give mini beauty reviews on all the products I have used up recently. The past couple of months I seem to have used up loads of stuff, some good, some not so good! I should also explain that the *'s represent how many times a product has featured in one of my Beauty Graveyard posts before. The more *'s the more I love it!

MAC Face & Body Foundation - One of my favourite foundations, ultra lightweight and ultra runny in consistency. This doesn't feel like you are wearing anything and looks really natural on the skin. I would definitely buy this again.

Guerlain Terracotta Moisturising Bronzing Powder in 00 Makeup Artist - Beautiful matte bronzer, in fact I have been a bit naughty and already bought a new Guerlain bronzer (eek).

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Blemish Control - While this primer did nothing in the way of blemish control, I probably would buy it again because it really did prolong the wear of my makeup. Overall I think Smashbox make some of the best primers on the market, so would definitely recommend them if you are looking for a new one.

Maybelline Big Eyes Mascara - Not one of Maybellines best mascaras. I did initially really like the lengthening effect this had, but I found it dried up quite quickly and started to flake during the day. Not a mascara I would buy again or recommend.

MAC Prep & Prime Highlighter in Light Boost - One of my favourite under eye brighteners. I also like to use this to highlight, I apply it on the centre of my forehead, down the bridge of my nose and the middle of my chin, then blend in with my foundation brush. I have a few other concealers I am using at the moment but will definitely buy this again in the future.

Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil in Soft Brunette ** - My favourite eye brow pencil, easiest product to use to give you full but soft brows. I have already repurchased this.

Benefit Stay Don't Stray - A perfectly good eye primer but sadly the packaging is so crap you should never, ever buy this. First of all the pump dispenses way too much product and you waste a ton every time you use it, second of all, as I got nearer the end, my primer started to separate. Every time I pumped it out ,there was this excess oil which I would have to tissue off before I could use it. Not impressed. Its a shame because I did like the eye primer itself, but for £20.50 it needs better packaging.

Boscia Self Defense Vital Antioxidant Moisture SPF 30 * - I love this moisturiser because its lightweight, doesn't irritate my skin and has a high SPF. Sadly its only available in America :(

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo + - My new obsession, I apply this before my moisturiser at night and it has really helped to clear my skin up and reduce my breakouts. I'm on my second tube already.

MooGoo Blemish Cleansing Moisturiser - MooGoo are a natural skincare company from Australia, they specialise in products to treat specific skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. I was seriously impressed by their Blemish Cleansing Moisturiser and will definitely be trying some more of their products in the future.

REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask - This mask contains natural fruit acids which are designed to remove dead skin cells, leaving your face looking brighter and healthier. I did notice a difference in the appearance of my skin when using this, but one thing I really struggled with was the smell of this stuff. Its pretty pricey at £30.00 and I wouldn't buy again.

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner ** - My favourite exfoliator, this is a very gentle acid exfoliator which is much more effective than your traditional scrubs. I apply this with a cotton pad at night after cleansing and can notice a visible difference in my skin by the morning. Another product I have already repurchased.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo and Conditioner - The first Living Proof product Ive tried that's disappointed me, full review here. Needless to say, I wouldn't buy again.

It's a 10 Miracle Leave in plus Keratin - I bought this leave in hair conditioner in America and it was bloody amazing. It left my hair silky smooth but didn't weigh it down or leave it feeling greasy at all. I would definitely buy this again when I'm in America but if I cant wait that long Ive noticed you can buy it online from Amazon.

Lee Stafford Original Dry Shampoo - I'm not usually a fan of dry shampoo but this is one of the better ones Ive tried. This also blended in quite well with my hair and didn't leave it looking ashy. Much better than Batiste in my opinion.

Bioderma Crealine H20 ***** - I love Bioderma as its the quickest, easiest and most gentle way to remove your makeup. Loads of different brands have bought out their own micellar water now and I am currently using the Garnier version which is pretty fab too.

Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel *** - When it comes to cleaning my face, I use a micellar water in the morning and then at night I like to properly cleanse my face. This Clarins cleanser is one of my favourites because it removes all my makeup, even waterproof mascara and feels really luxurious. I just rub a dollop all over my face and rinse off with some warm water and a flannel.

Neal's Yard Rose Facial Wash - For some reason I seem to have got through a load of cleansers these past couple of months! This was a really nice, gentle cleanser which didn't irritate my skin at all and like the Clarins cleanser, removed all my makeup in one go. I would definitely buy this again in the future.

Clarisonic Refreshing Gel Cleanser - This is just one of the mini cleaners which came with my Clarisonic, good way to get you started!

This Works Clean Skin Moisture Scrub - A pretty good facial exfoliator but nothing special.

Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover - A really good eye makeup remover, will remove the most stubborn waterproof mascaras but its just too expensive and I could think of much more exciting things to spend my money on than eye makeup remover. 

Yes to Carrots Hydrating Shower Gel *** - You know how much I love anything from the Yes to range and now you can buy Yes to in Boots (woohoo) I was so excited I actually took a picture of the stand, sad I know!

Jergens Ultra Healing Extra Dry Skin Body Moisturiser - I haven't used such an unpleasantly sticky body moisturiser in a long time *shudder*

Bobbi Brown Almost Bare Perfume * - My signature scent, this smells exactly like how I imagine Jennifer Aniston smells, a clean beach!

& Other Stories Plush Balm - This is a multi purpose balm which you can used for dry patches, scars, cuticles and a billion other things. Very similar to Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream but without the smell, seriously impressed with this.

The Body Shop Almond Nail and Cuticle Oil - This click pen is handy for keeping in your bag but I actually prefer Solar Oil for moisturising my cuticles and wouldn't buy this again.

Zoya Remove + ***** - My favourite nail polish remover, doesn't dry my nails out and extends the wear of my polish.

Vaseline Cocoa Radiant Spray & Go Body Moisturiser - This is what you call pure laziness. I hate body moisturising, it feels like such a chore so I was intrigued to try the new Vaseline Spray & Go moisturisers because they made the whole process look a bit more bearable. Now these aren't particularly hydrating, they do the job and take away that horrible tight feeling in your skin when you first come out the shower but if you have particularly dry skin this probably wont be enough for you. The other thing is that they really don't last long at all, as you can probably tell by the 4 cans I have got through! But at the moment out of pure laziness I am loving them because they get the job done! 

What was the last beauty item you used up and can you beat my 4 cans of Vaseline Spray? ;)

Friday, 21 March 2014

The Beauty Graveyard

Time for a round up of all the products I have used up lately. If you haven't read one of my Beauty Graveyard posts before *'s indicate how many times a product has featured in previous Beauty Graveyard posts.

Bumble & Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo **
I am a massive fan of the Bumble & Bumble Surf shampoo and conditioner. They leave my hair feeling squeaky clean and bouncy, plus help me achieve the tousled effect I love.

Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray **
This stuff is sickeningly expensive but it works so good I cant be without it! This gives me that tousled bed hair I love without any stickiness. In fact when I use this it doesn't even feel like I have anything in my hair at all. Plus it smells amazing and I always get compliments on my perfume when I use this!

Living Proof Full Discovery Kit
I have used up everything in this kit except the thickening cream. I did a full review on the kit here and I would highly recommend trying it, as its really good value for money. One thing I would add to my original review though, I didn't really rate the shampoo and conditioner but when used in conjunction with the thickening cream and root lifting spray, I really did notice a major difference in the volume of my hair!

Garnier Body Repair Anti-Dryness Restoring Lotion *****
One of my favourite body moisturisers. 

Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion*
I really don't like the smell of this moisturiser, I think it must be the oat in it. Its not a bad moisturiser but the bottle is too small I use it up in no time at all. I probably wouldn't buy this again.

Clarins Body Shaping Supplement
I nicked this off my Mum as she wasn't using it. First of all I don't believe that any cream or lotion will shape your body in any way shape or form but as this is an oil you mix in with your normal body lotion, I thought it might be nice to use when your skin is drier in the Winter months. 
I don't have anything good to say about this, of course I noticed no "body shaping" results and it wasn't even particularly hydrating. Don't waste your money!

The Body Shop Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow and Body Mist
I definitely think these kind of products are used as a placebo but it was quite enjoyable spraying this on my pillow before bed and smelling the calming scent. I am a bit of a sucker at times, so I probably will purchase something similar to this again one day.

Indeed Laboratories Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Masks
I did a full review on these masks in this post but I have to say I wont be repurchasing. In this pack you get 4 masks for £20.00 and I would just rather buy a tube of hydraluron for the money.

Yes to Cucumber Soothing Daily Calming Moisturiser *
You know I love the Yes to range because of their natural ingredients. I have tried all their moisturisers now, Cucumber, Carrot and Tomato. They feel nice and light on my skin, which is good for me as I cant stand heavy moisturisers on my face.

Neal's Yard Rehydrating Rose Toner
I really liked using this toner after cleansing as it left my skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. It didn't feel at all stripping or drying, just very gentle. I would definitely buy this again.

Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel **
I forgot how much I loved this cleanser. For one reason or another, when I used up my last tube I didn't repurchase it. Then the other month I remembered how much I loved it and since then I have bought 2 tubes! I use this with a muslin cloth, it takes my makeup off so easily and feels really luxurious on the skin.

L'oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation
I really loved this foundation. It gave a light to medium coverage and felt really light on my skin. I would definitely buy another bottle of this. More in depth review here

L'oreal Miss Manga Mascara
This mascara really grew on me the more I used it. I felt like it really lengthened my lashes and gave volume but wasn't at all clumpy. I have done a full review here and again I would definitely repurchase this.

Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder
Crappy packaging aside, this is a really good setting powder. It kept my oil at bay for the whole day which is important for me, as apart from lipstick I don't tend to touch up my makeup during the day. You do need to be careful with this though, as if you apply too much it can look a little cakey.

Givenchy Hydra Sparkling Magic Lip and Cheek Balm *
My all time favourite lip balm. This was in a limited edition peachy shade which they released a few years ago. I wish they would release more of these in different shades. 
This is a staple for me and I will forever be repurchasing it.

Illamasqua Brow and Lash Gel **
Another staple, the best brow gel I have found. Not only does this groom your brows and keep them looking natural. It also has amazing hold, I like to brush my brows upwards and this keeps them in place all day.

Wednesday, 5 February 2014

The Beauty Graveyard

I have a whole new bag of used up beauty products to review for you!

*'s indicate how many times a product has been in one of my Beauty Graveyard posts, the more *'s you see, the more I love it!

Tesco Pro Formula Radiance Hot Cloth Cleanser
I was really surprised at how much I liked this cleanser. I used it with a muslin cloth and it removed all my makeup, even waterproof mascara. For less than a fiver you cant complain! Would definitely buy again.

Bioderma Crealine H20 ****
The original micellar water, love this stuff. Easiest and quickest way to remove your makeup, pour on a cotton pad and wipe all over your face. Removes both face and eye makeup and is a lot more gentle on your skin than a face wipe, no stinging eyes here! I do love Bioderma but L'oreal's Micellar water is just as good.

Champneys Spa Skin Super Rich Cleansing Balm
As the name suggests this is a super rich cleansing balm! Its actually a bit gritty so doubles as an exfoliator. I really grew to like this but you have to use a cloth or flannel to remove it. A few times I used this in the shower and tried to rinse with my hands, but because it is so rich you need some form of cloth to wipe it away. My mum loved this and I have already repurchased another pot for her, so I'm sure I will be dipping into that too!

Yes to Grapefruit Correct and Repair Daily Facial Scrub
Another one of my American purchases all used up :'( 
I love, love, love the Yes to range because every one of their products is made with at least 95% natural ingredients. Sadly I think the Grapefruit range is only available in America, but if you have access to this definitely try it. Lovely exfoliator, not too harsh or abrasive. I used this in the shower when I wanted more of a deep clean.

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream *
I do love a multi purpose balm and I have to confess to using this on my feet in recent months, yes they are that dry! If its good enough for horses hooves, its good enough for my size 6's! I would definitely buy this again and would probably try the unscented version next time. I'm currently trying out & Other Stories Plush Balm, which is another great multi purpose balm.

Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate
Since discovering facial oils I haven't looked back and use one every night. Midnight Recovery Concentrate was the first oil I tried and remains one of my favourites. I like that its light, doesn't feel heavy on the skin and after a few weeks I felt my skin looked much healthier. 

Aussie Mega Shampoo ****** 
My favourite shampoo, if you suffer from greasy hair like me you need to try this!

Herbal Essences Moroccan My Shine Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner
I cant believe how quickly I have got through the beauty products I purchased in America, guess it proves I made good choices ;) If you have dry hair or frizzy hair you will love this shampoo and conditioner. Its so hydrating and left my hair so sleek and shiny. Not the greatest choice for me though, as it was a bit too heavy for my grease ball hair.

Lee Stafford Poker Straight Dry Shampoo
I will never be a massive dry shampoo fan, I hate how dirty they make your hair feel, but the Lee Stafford version is one of the better ones I have tried and I liked having this little can in my bag in case of emergency!

Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray
I never used to like Bumble and Bumble's Surf Spray but I think that's because I was spraying too much in my hair. Go easy on this, leave your hair to air dry and you get perfect beachy, messy waves. I still prefer my Oribe Wave spray to this but the Bumble and Bumble works well to add texture when I have curled my hair.

Bvlgari Jasmin Noir Perfume
If like me you are a fan of more masculine scents like Tom Ford Black Orchid, you will love this perfume. A very sexy, winter scent. I will definitely buy this again.

Lancome Hypnose Star Mascara
A good mascara for adding volume and drama to your lashes. I probably wouldn't repurchase though as I'm pretty fickle when it comes to mascaras.

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation Sample in Sante Fe
I loved this sample so much I bought the full size. Full review here but I can honestly say this is now one of my all time favourite foundations.

Garnier Body Repair Anti Dryness Restoring Lotion ***
When it comes to body moisturisers I don't like to spend a lot of money as I get through them pretty quickly. This has been relieving my dry skin in these harsh Winter months and I love that it sinks in quickly.

Yes To Carrots Hydrating Shower Gel **
99.8% Natural ingredients, that makes me very happy! I will forever repurchase this.

Argan 5 Argan Oil Super Creamy Bodywash
I got this for Christmas and as much as I love my Yes To shower gel it was so nice to use something a bit more creamy and luxurious. I think I will  have to check out the rest of the Argan 5 range now.

L'Occitane Hand Cream *
The one beauty product I hate is hand cream, they are always sticky and I cant bear how they feel. The L'Occitane version is the most bearable I have found and I always get one when they are a magazine freebie!


Sunday, 29 December 2013

The Beauty Graveyard

Time for me to do some recycling and write up my mini reviews on all the beauty products I've used up recently.

If you see a * next to a product that represents how many times that product has appeared in a Beauty Graveyard post. The more *'s the more I love it. 

Garnier Body Intensive 7 Days Ultra-Replenishing Lotion - I wasn't keen on this, very sticky and this definitely did not leave my skin feeling hydrated for 7 days. I wouldn't buy this again.

Garnier Body Repair Anti-Dryness Restoring Moisturiser * - My new favourite body moisturiser, instantly leaves my skin feeling much more hydrated and sinks in reasonably quickly. I have already gone through a few bottles of this.

Duchy Originals All Over Body Baby Lotion - In case you hadn't noticed, I'm not actually a baby but I had run out of body moisturiser and wanted something that was reasonably natural. This is made from 83% organic ingredients and if I had a baby I would be very happy using this on them. Its not bad for grown ups either ;)

Fearne Body Polish - This was from one of Fearne Cottons Boots sets last year. Was actually a really nice exfoliator.

Aussie Mega Shampoo ***** - My favourite shampoo, already repurchased. In fact I love this so much I included it in my 13 beauty favourites of 2013.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo and Conditioner * - I loved this shampoo and conditioner. They left my hair feeling squeaky clean and bouncy. I definitely noticed a more tousled effect when using this and will definitely repurchase these. The only downside is the price, at around £18.00 each these aren't cheap but well worth a splurge.

Lee Stafford Dark Dry Shampoo - Even though I have to wash my hair every other day to avoid looking like a grease ball, I am not a fan of dry shampoo. As my hair is dark they always leave it looking ashy and I hate how it feels in my hair. I would just rather wash it to be honest. This is one of the best dry shampoos I have tried and as its dark, it blends into my hair much better.

Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray * - Another of my 13 beauty favourites of 2013 this spray smells amazing and helps give me bouncy, wavy hair. For me its worth the extortionate price tag.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray - As I love the Beach spray so much, I felt I needed to try Oribe's infamous Texturizing spray. I'm still on the fence about this, I ended up using it in the same way you would a dry shampoo. I liked that its clear, so left no residue in my hair but it didn't give me the tousled effect I was hoping for. I only bought the mini bottle of this so I feel like I need to give this another go!

More Aussie Mega Shampoo and Conditioner - I told you I love this stuff!

Sebastian Potion 9 Lite - This used to be one of my favourite hair products and I forgot how much I loved it. I spray this all over wet hair and leave it to dry naturally. It gives it so much more body and natural movement, a bit like the Oribe Beach spray. I'm kind of gutted that I have fallen back in love with this and now its all gone again but I'm sure I will repurchase this again in the future.

Living Proof Prime Style Extender - This is a sad Beauty Graveyard post for me as a lot of my American products are in here. Luckily you can buy Living Proof from Space NK and I already have one more tube of this stuff! A blob of this through wet hair helps give my limp hair some much needed style. I definitely want to try more from the Living Proof range now.

REN Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser - Full review here I really enjoyed this cleanser and definitely think it helped control my hormonal spots! I would repurchase this in the future.

Hydraluron * - I will leave it to Caroline Hirons to explain this beauty

Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil - The best facial beauty oil I have used, I love this stuff and am seriously gutted I've finished it. I love that this is drier than most oils, so doesn't feel greasy. You cant buy Tarte in the UK but trust me I will find a way to get hold of this! 

Boscia Self Defense Vital Antioxidant Moisture SPF 30 - This is another sample I got for free with my beauty points in Sephora. After finishing my Kate Somerville Goat Milk and Tarte Maracuja oil I was left bereft and moved onto this. The problem is I loved this too and you cant buy Boscia in the UK either! (hold me). I loved that this moisturiser was light, didn't break me out and has a really high SPF. Plus Bosica products contain no preservatives, alcohol or fragrance, so thumbs up from me. If you live in America you can buy this from Sephora.

Kate Somerville Exfolikate - Another much loved Sephora product. This is an intensive exfoliating treatment which you leave on your skin for 1 to 2 minutes before rinsing. This did tingle and slightly sting my skin, but once rinsed off I immediately noticed a difference in my skins appearance and texture. I'm going to have a big shopping list when I next go back to America.

Kate Somerville Goat Milk - As I said before this is a sad Beauty Graveyard for me. This is my 4th and final skincare product I bought in America which I fell in love with and cant buy here in the UK. This is the best moisturiser I have ever used and it even made my top 13 of 2013 beauty products. If you are planning a trip to the US add the Tarte Maracuja Oil, Boscia moisturiser, Exolikate and Goat Milk to your list!

Garnier Body Repair Anti-Dryness Restoring Lotion - More bottles of this stuff!

Zoya Remove + **** - Another product which made it into my top 13 of the year the best and only nail polish remover I use.

Kat Von D Adora Rollerball Perfume - This is a beautiful, romantic scent. Kat Von D's makeup range and fragrances are exclusive to Sephora if they still make Adora I would highly recommend trying it.

Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer * - One of the best under eye concealers I have found and the cheapest.

Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil in Soft Brunette * - As my must have brow product, this made it into my top 13 makeup products of the year. I already have a new one ready and waiting for me.

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation ** - My all time favourite foundation, third bottle and counting!

Benefit They're Real Mascara *** - One of my favourite discoveries of the year, love this mascara for defined and lengthened lashes.