Friday, June 29, 2012

Review: The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion

Review: The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion..



A lightweight, soothing gel-crème for blemished skin.
• Replenishes moisture overnight
• Leaves skin looking matte
• Antibacterial action
• Clinically proven to give clearer-looking skin




It feels like such a long time since I last wrote a review. I guess it's about time that I gave you my opinion on The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion that was featured in my "What's New" post in March. I mentioned that there was a lot of positive feedback about their whole Tea Tree range with the Blemish Fade Night Lotion being the most talked about and it truly deserves every positive review it gets!





I used to take biotin tablets which broke me out on both cheeks. I didn't realise it was the tablets that were giving me spots until I started doing some research so I stopped taking it and my spots more or less vanished. I do not pop my spots but for some reason they left my cheeks with dark marks which I've been desperately trying to get rid of as my skin wasn't like this before. 





I started using The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion and I have to say this product has worked wonders in fading the marks. The thing is, I don't even use it daily anymore and I've seen results. When I first got it, I used it daily for maybe about two weeks then I became lazy and daily became once/twice a week, sometimes I wouldn't even use it at all. The marks haven't faded completely but they are definitely a lot less apparent than they were a few months ago. Maybe if I start using the product properly, they may fade completely? Who knows? I am just happy that my skin is looking a lot more even.  





It is said to be a night lotion but to be honest, I don't see why it cannot be used during the day too. It is not a greasy lotion at all. In fact, after 5 minutes of application, my skin appears very matte and feels a bit on the dry side and I prefer a richer cream before bed. For those with dry skin, you may have to apply a moisturiser that is more rich after you've used this.





The Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion is also said to help those with acne breakouts but I'm not sure how well it works for that but I guess for those of you who suffer from acne, there's no harm in trying.



Packaging: The product is dispensed through a pump which I find to be a hygienic way to package the product especially because of what it is used for.
Size: 30ml
Price: Usually £8.00 but is currently on offer for £4.00!!!
Availability: Available from any Body Shop store and online
Overall thoughts: If you have blemishes that you are trying to get rid of, I think this is a good product to start off with as it is very affordable in my opinion and The Body Shop always have offers. You will only know if it will work for you if you try it yourself as everyone differs. My friend also uses it and I have seen a big difference in her skin. Don't expect miracles and airbrushed skin but I'm sure you will see a major improvement and good results. I'm going to try and start using it more regularly in hope that my dark marks fade even more!




Twitter  Bloglovin

Review: The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion

Review: The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion..



A lightweight, soothing gel-crème for blemished skin.
• Replenishes moisture overnight
• Leaves skin looking matte
• Antibacterial action
• Clinically proven to give clearer-looking skin




It feels like such a long time since I last wrote a review. I guess it's about time that I gave you my opinion on The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion that was featured in my "What's New" post in March. I mentioned that there was a lot of positive feedback about their whole Tea Tree range with the Blemish Fade Night Lotion being the most talked about and it truly deserves every positive review it gets!





I used to take biotin tablets which broke me out on both cheeks. I didn't realise it was the tablets that were giving me spots until I started doing some research so I stopped taking it and my spots more or less vanished. I do not pop my spots but for some reason they left my cheeks with dark marks which I've been desperately trying to get rid of as my skin wasn't like this before. 





I started using The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion and I have to say this product has worked wonders in fading the marks. The thing is, I don't even use it daily anymore and I've seen results. When I first got it, I used it daily for maybe about two weeks then I became lazy and daily became once/twice a week, sometimes I wouldn't even use it at all. The marks haven't faded completely but they are definitely a lot less apparent than they were a few months ago. Maybe if I start using the product properly, they may fade completely? Who knows? I am just happy that my skin is looking a lot more even.  





It is said to be a night lotion but to be honest, I don't see why it cannot be used during the day too. It is not a greasy lotion at all. In fact, after 5 minutes of application, my skin appears very matte and feels a bit on the dry side and I prefer a richer cream before bed. For those with dry skin, you may have to apply a moisturiser that is more rich after you've used this.





The Tea Tree Blemish Fade Night Lotion is also said to help those with acne breakouts but I'm not sure how well it works for that but I guess for those of you who suffer from acne, there's no harm in trying.



Packaging: The product is dispensed through a pump which I find to be a hygienic way to package the product especially because of what it is used for.
Size: 30ml
Price: Usually £8.00 but is currently on offer for £4.00!!!
Availability: Available from any Body Shop store and online
Overall thoughts: If you have blemishes that you are trying to get rid of, I think this is a good product to start off with as it is very affordable in my opinion and The Body Shop always have offers. You will only know if it will work for you if you try it yourself as everyone differs. My friend also uses it and I have seen a big difference in her skin. Don't expect miracles and airbrushed skin but I'm sure you will see a major improvement and good results. I'm going to try and start using it more regularly in hope that my dark marks fade even more!




Twitter  Bloglovin

Invitation Only Pop Up Boutique Event at BECCA London

Invitation Only Pop Up Boutique Event at BECCA London..



Hey beauts,
I know it's short notice but for those interested, I wanted to let you know about an event taking place tomorrow at BECCA London. Invitation Only will be opening their pop up boutique for one day only where they will be showcasing silk pieces, leather accessories and bespoke jewellery. They will also be doing a 15% discount on their items and providing free makeup sessions.
If anyone is interested, below is an invite which entitles you to the discount. Unfortunately I'll be unable to make it but if anyone attends, let me know how it goes!
For more information on Invitation Only, visit their website http://invitationonlylondon.com/




Invitation Only Pop Up Boutique Event at BECCA London

Invitation Only Pop Up Boutique Event at BECCA London..



Hey beauts,
I know it's short notice but for those interested, I wanted to let you know about an event taking place tomorrow at BECCA London. Invitation Only will be opening their pop up boutique for one day only where they will be showcasing silk pieces, leather accessories and bespoke jewellery. They will also be doing a 15% discount on their items and providing free makeup sessions.
If anyone is interested, below is an invite which entitles you to the discount. Unfortunately I'll be unable to make it but if anyone attends, let me know how it goes!
For more information on Invitation Only, visit their website http://invitationonlylondon.com/




Monday, June 25, 2012

Quick Tip: Quicker, easier and cheaper alternative to lipsticks!

Quick Tip: Quicker, easier and cheaper alternative to lipsticks..


Hello beauts!
Many people are not aware that you can actually use a lip pencil to fill in your entire lips without the additional use of lipstick over it. If you don't find a lipstick shade that you like or even if you find lipsticks messy, why not try looking at lip pencils? Lip pencils are not just for lining the outer edge of your lip before your lipstick application, they can also be worn alone. If you're on a budget and don't have money to splash out on lipsticks, then you may find this beneficial as lip pencils tend to be much cheaper and often last much longer. You can even add any gloss over the top to alter the finish!
Do make sure your lips are well moisturised before applying your lip pencil though, as it may possibly accentuate any fine lines you have. 


This is just a quick post to show you how I've used my NYX lip pencil in '808 Deep Purple' to fill in my lips for a pop of colour.





What do you think?

I'm sure quite a few of you already do this but to those who don't, I hope you've found this quick tip useful!



Quick Tip: Quicker, easier and cheaper alternative to lipsticks!

Quick Tip: Quicker, easier and cheaper alternative to lipsticks..


Hello beauts!
Many people are not aware that you can actually use a lip pencil to fill in your entire lips without the additional use of lipstick over it. If you don't find a lipstick shade that you like or even if you find lipsticks messy, why not try looking at lip pencils? Lip pencils are not just for lining the outer edge of your lip before your lipstick application, they can also be worn alone. If you're on a budget and don't have money to splash out on lipsticks, then you may find this beneficial as lip pencils tend to be much cheaper and often last much longer. You can even add any gloss over the top to alter the finish!
Do make sure your lips are well moisturised before applying your lip pencil though, as it may possibly accentuate any fine lines you have. 


This is just a quick post to show you how I've used my NYX lip pencil in '808 Deep Purple' to fill in my lips for a pop of colour.





What do you think?

I'm sure quite a few of you already do this but to those who don't, I hope you've found this quick tip useful!



Sunday, June 24, 2012

What's New: Black Opal, MAC, Clinique, ecoTools

What's New: Black Opal, MAC, Clinique, ecoTools..


Hey beauts!
Okay so during my exam period I actually didn't do much makeup shopping; in fact, I did very little as you can see from the picture above. I just picked up a few basics. Nothing extraordinary (apart from that Black Opal powder lol).

1. MAC Lip Liner - Cork

I've always wanted to try a MAC lip liner. Can you believe I didn't own one? The MAC ones just seemed pricey so I'd always just stuck to my NYX ones but now that I've tried out the MAC lip liner, I think I much prefer it! Well MAC 'Cork' is much better than my NYX 'Toast'. The MAC 'Cork' pencil is a lot softer than the NYX 'Toast' at least so it is much easier to apply. I think I'll be investing more in MAC lip liners. I guess you get what you pay for!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £10.50


2. Black Opal Invisible Oil Blocking Powder


Please believe that I am not exaggerating when I say this is the best setting powder I have come across so far; better than my Laura Mercier Invisible Setting Powder and we all know I loved that powder (until it ran out and I decided that I'm not paying that amount for a setting powder again). I was looking for a cheaper alternative to my Laura Mercier Invisible Setting Powder so when I came across a YouTuber's instagram and she mentioned how good it was, it was time for me to try it out! Bear in mind that it isn't a white powder like most setting powders. This powder is particularly good for women of colour because of its colour so if you have problems looking ashy with the white powders, give this a try. Don't worry, I will definitely write up a full review for you all!
Availability: PAK Cosmetics
Price: £6.99


3. Clinique Superfine Liner for Brows -04 Black/Brown


So I've changed my eyebrow pencil! Shocking I know! For some reason MAC were out of stock of their 'Stud' eyebrow pencil for absolutely ages. I was losing my patience and all I had was my Rimmel eyebrow pencil which I use as a backup when MAC acts up but I was even fed up of using that. I remembered that Clinique did an eyebrow pencil just like the MAC one so I decided to give it a try. Believe it or not but I actually prefer the Clinique pencil to the MAC one because the pencil is not as soft which gives a less drawn on look. I also prefer the colour of the Clinique pencil. I bought the darkest one which is lighter than MAC 'Stud'. It may be similar to MAC 'Spiked' if I can remember clearly. If you're looking for a change, definitely try this pencil out! 
Availability: Any Clinique counter
Price: £12


4. MAC Studio Finish Concealer - NC45


I only bought this to sharpen up my brows when I've filled them in but now I also use it as an under-eye highlight for that Kim K look as it is a fuller coverage concealer. It will settle into fine lines horribly if you do not set it!!!!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £13.50


5. ecoTools Angled Eyeliner Brush


I really needed an angled brush for applying concealer around my brows and I bought this in a rush. It's quite useless for doing that because the brush is not stiff but I don't know how well it works as an eyeliner brush (which is its actual use).
Availability: Boots or Boots online
Price: £5.49


6. MAC Mineralize Foundation Loose - Dark Deep


I bought this because I wanted to try something new (oh and a YouTuber uses it and she looks amazing!). It's meant to be quite similar to the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish but in a loose powder form. The MAC assistant also mentioned that this product is more fine. So far I do like it but maybe I could have gone for the shade before which is 'Dark'. I don't know why I bought 'Dark Deep' anyway because I use MAC MSF in 'Dark'. 
This powder is great for the warm months because it can be used alone and if you have any blemishes, just apply concealer first or maybe even a tinted moisturiser if you need the extra coverage. It's got quite a good coverage as it is a powder foundation but if you apply too much then obviously you will look very powdery. 
 It also gives off a similar glow to the MSF powder!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £23.00


7. MAC Prolongwear Concealer NC45


Before I purchased the MAC Studio Finish concealer, I bought this to be used under my eyes for a highlighted look. I usually use MAC Prolongwear concealer anyway but I decided to go for a shade darker than what I usually buy. The coverage is not as much as the 'Studio Finish' concealer so these are for those subtle makeup days.


Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £13.50


Not much but what do you think of my recent buys? Does anyone own the Black Opal powder?




What's New: Black Opal, MAC, Clinique, ecoTools

What's New: Black Opal, MAC, Clinique, ecoTools..


Hey beauts!
Okay so during my exam period I actually didn't do much makeup shopping; in fact, I did very little as you can see from the picture above. I just picked up a few basics. Nothing extraordinary (apart from that Black Opal powder lol).

1. MAC Lip Liner - Cork

I've always wanted to try a MAC lip liner. Can you believe I didn't own one? The MAC ones just seemed pricey so I'd always just stuck to my NYX ones but now that I've tried out the MAC lip liner, I think I much prefer it! Well MAC 'Cork' is much better than my NYX 'Toast'. The MAC 'Cork' pencil is a lot softer than the NYX 'Toast' at least so it is much easier to apply. I think I'll be investing more in MAC lip liners. I guess you get what you pay for!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £10.50


2. Black Opal Invisible Oil Blocking Powder


Please believe that I am not exaggerating when I say this is the best setting powder I have come across so far; better than my Laura Mercier Invisible Setting Powder and we all know I loved that powder (until it ran out and I decided that I'm not paying that amount for a setting powder again). I was looking for a cheaper alternative to my Laura Mercier Invisible Setting Powder so when I came across a YouTuber's instagram and she mentioned how good it was, it was time for me to try it out! Bear in mind that it isn't a white powder like most setting powders. This powder is particularly good for women of colour because of its colour so if you have problems looking ashy with the white powders, give this a try. Don't worry, I will definitely write up a full review for you all!
Availability: PAK Cosmetics
Price: £6.99


3. Clinique Superfine Liner for Brows -04 Black/Brown


So I've changed my eyebrow pencil! Shocking I know! For some reason MAC were out of stock of their 'Stud' eyebrow pencil for absolutely ages. I was losing my patience and all I had was my Rimmel eyebrow pencil which I use as a backup when MAC acts up but I was even fed up of using that. I remembered that Clinique did an eyebrow pencil just like the MAC one so I decided to give it a try. Believe it or not but I actually prefer the Clinique pencil to the MAC one because the pencil is not as soft which gives a less drawn on look. I also prefer the colour of the Clinique pencil. I bought the darkest one which is lighter than MAC 'Stud'. It may be similar to MAC 'Spiked' if I can remember clearly. If you're looking for a change, definitely try this pencil out! 
Availability: Any Clinique counter
Price: £12


4. MAC Studio Finish Concealer - NC45


I only bought this to sharpen up my brows when I've filled them in but now I also use it as an under-eye highlight for that Kim K look as it is a fuller coverage concealer. It will settle into fine lines horribly if you do not set it!!!!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £13.50


5. ecoTools Angled Eyeliner Brush


I really needed an angled brush for applying concealer around my brows and I bought this in a rush. It's quite useless for doing that because the brush is not stiff but I don't know how well it works as an eyeliner brush (which is its actual use).
Availability: Boots or Boots online
Price: £5.49


6. MAC Mineralize Foundation Loose - Dark Deep


I bought this because I wanted to try something new (oh and a YouTuber uses it and she looks amazing!). It's meant to be quite similar to the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish but in a loose powder form. The MAC assistant also mentioned that this product is more fine. So far I do like it but maybe I could have gone for the shade before which is 'Dark'. I don't know why I bought 'Dark Deep' anyway because I use MAC MSF in 'Dark'. 
This powder is great for the warm months because it can be used alone and if you have any blemishes, just apply concealer first or maybe even a tinted moisturiser if you need the extra coverage. It's got quite a good coverage as it is a powder foundation but if you apply too much then obviously you will look very powdery. 
 It also gives off a similar glow to the MSF powder!
Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £23.00


7. MAC Prolongwear Concealer NC45


Before I purchased the MAC Studio Finish concealer, I bought this to be used under my eyes for a highlighted look. I usually use MAC Prolongwear concealer anyway but I decided to go for a shade darker than what I usually buy. The coverage is not as much as the 'Studio Finish' concealer so these are for those subtle makeup days.


Availability: Any MAC counter or MAC online
Price: £13.50


Not much but what do you think of my recent buys? Does anyone own the Black Opal powder?