Ok this week (the penultimate edition) of Best of Beauty Blog Challenge looks at your Favourite Beauty Treatment, be it waxing, facial, massage, etc. In this instance, it was no contest for me, I definitely prefer a relaxing facial. There's nothing like it as far as I'm concerned. It's relaxing, it's rejuvenating, it brings your skin back to life. I don't know, I just feel properly looked after once I've had a facial. And there's usually a massage element in it for your face, neck, arms and sometimes even hands. It's just uber relaxing and you feel incredibly replenished afterwards (I promise all the alliteration isn't intentional).
As I have dehydrated skin, I love how soft and supple my skins feels after a good facial. This post along with the pamper products post, made me realise I do need to pamper myself a bit more. So I expect to book myself in somewhere in the coming weeks. Since I was really happy after getting my hair done at Burgundy Beauty, I may get something extra done with my next hair appointment.
I have actually done a recent DIY pampering evening myself, so I'll pop up a post about that tomorrow, be sure to check back! If you want to see everyone who is taking part, be sure to check out the post on Samantha's page over on All The Buzz.
So that really sums up my favourite treatment. What about you, what's your favourite treatment to have done at a salon?
20 March 2014
16 March 2014
Week in Pictures # 1
So I see these posts around and think they're a great way to catch up on the week, especially when you're like me and you don't necessarily remember to update everyone as you go on the various social media sites. Sometimes I may just plain forget to share, so I'm going to try to do one of these posts each week.
Hopefully they might appeal to anyone who likes to have a nose at what everyone is up to, or give them ideas for places to go/things to do/try. I can also use it to keep track of what I have gotten up to!
It will also give me an excuse to try get a bit more active with Instagram, I've barely used it all. If you're not already following me, you can find me here.
So without further ado, my week in pictures...
Carmina Burana @ National Concert Hall Sunny day in Dublin city centre

George Orwell's 1984 New accessories from @PinkSugarOnlineStore
Hopefully they might appeal to anyone who likes to have a nose at what everyone is up to, or give them ideas for places to go/things to do/try. I can also use it to keep track of what I have gotten up to!
It will also give me an excuse to try get a bit more active with Instagram, I've barely used it all. If you're not already following me, you can find me here.
So without further ado, my week in pictures...
Carmina Burana @ National Concert Hall Sunny day in Dublin city centre

George Orwell's 1984 New accessories from @PinkSugarOnlineStore
Essie Polish - Bond with Whomever Cocktail: Zombie
Mini Pixy Haul Wet n Wild Haul
I was also at Des Bishop in the Draiocht on Thursday, but they don't allow photographs and the 6 nations was the highlight of the week for sure, but a picture would have only been of the television since I wasn't in Paris to see it!
Hope you had a good week, what did you get up to?
14 March 2014
BeautyBaggage Competition | Mega Lip Giveaway
Ok so I've been trying to think of a way I could say thanks to everyone who has supported me and my blogging endeavours. After some thought, I've decided to go with a Mega Lip Giveaway. So all the prizes are (as you've probably guessed) lip related. They're all products I have owned and loved, so I hope you will feel the same about them. So let's get straight to the point, one lucky winner can win:
- 3 x MAC Lipsticks
- 2 x Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquers
- 2 x Bourjois Shine Edition Lipsticks
- 1 x Lush Lip Balm
- 1 x Lush Lip Scrub
That's over €100 worth of products for your lovely lips. You have all the products you need to look after your lips and make them fabulous. What's better, you'll notice I didn't mention any shades (or in the case of Lush, flavours), that's because the winner can choose ANY shades/flavours they want. So do you have any colours you wanted to try out, but have been too afraid or perhaps you just need a couple more colours to finish off your collection? Now's your chance!
Terms & Conditions
1. This competition is open internationally
2. Winner will get to choose the shade for each prize (I am happy to offer recommendations)
3. The closing date of the competition is Sunday 30th March 2014
4. The winner will be announced on BeautyBaggage Twitter & Facebook pages later that day, so make sure to check back.
To make it fair, I am using Rafflecopter. The more ways you enter, the better the chance you have of winning.
Good luck everyone!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is no way sponsored, or in connection with, any of the above brands
13 March 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Budget Bargain
These weeks really are flying, week 6 of the challenge already? Hello again to any regulars and welcome to any new readers. This 8 week challenge was set up by the beautiful Sam over at All The Buzz.
So this week I had to pick one bargain buy, be it skincare or makeup. It will be interesting to see if this answer is the least original of them all. Since this product is incredibly hyped in the beauty blogging world (and for good reason). Without further ado, I present to you, Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer.
Apologies for not having a better photograph, I'm doing this week's post on the go! There isn't much I can say about this concealer that hasn't already been said. Other than literally, if you don't own it, change that. Honestly, you won't regret it. It's only €6.49 in Boots, that's certainly a budget bargain. I rank it up there beside my NARS creamy concealer, which is over 4 times the price.
You know what to do ladies....
What's your favourite concealer, do you own this one?
11 March 2014
The Tag of All Knowledge
Ok so I was tagged by the fabulous Cat over at Big Blonde Girl to do the Tag of All Knowledge the other week and I'm finally getting around to doing it. So lets jump straight in...
1. If you were a rockstar what items would you demand on your rider?
My realist answer would be comfy PJs, cosy slippers and a mega fast laptop. However since I'm now a rock star and thus am allowed to be a diva, I'm going to choose chilled sparkling elderflower water, white roses, peanut butter M&Ms and Lisa Eldridge (I figure if I'm going to be on the road all the time, she'd be the only one capable of making me look stage ready)! By the way, if you don't know who Lisa Eldridge is, you need to head on over here now!
2. If you could afford any designer piece, be it clothing, shoes or accessories, what would it be and how would you style it? If you can, post a picture.
Well I've always always always wanted a Michael Kors Rose Gold watch, so I plan on getting that as a gift to myself when I finish college this summer (for good this time I promise, I think 3 qualifications and 8 years later, I'm done with University)! So next on my list (and sure I may as well aim high) would definitely be a Chanel 2.55 handbag in black. I think it would look perfect with anything you might choose to wear on a night out. It's something you would have forever and would never go out of fashion (so really it's an investment more than anything)!
3. What kind of teenager were you? Goth? Princess? Nerdy?
I was fairly run of the mill as far as teenagers go. I was pretty easy going, wasn't into anything goth-like. Since I had a part time job from age of 14, it excluded me from being a princess as I bought any bit and pieces I wanted with my own money. So I guess if I had to pick one it would be Nerdy. Mind you I wasn't particularly nerdy as a teenager (I'm WAY more of a nerd now - haha). But I kept my head down and just hung out with my own friends, didn't cause any hassle and sorted of just drifted through my teenage years without causing my parents too much heart ache!
4. This one is a bit morbid. If you could have any quote as your epitaph, what would it be and why?
Hmmm this is an interesting one, I had to think about it. I've decided on...
Just something simple, I think if we all showed more love to one another, we'd all be happier in the long-run.
5. What fictional character would you most like to have dinner with and why?
Walter White. I would be so scared no doubt, but it would be amazing to meet the man in person, try get inside that brain!
6. Tell me about your first ever makeup purchase.
I'm quite surprised I can actually still remember this, it was a peach/bronze coloured eye shadow. Just a single shade, it was either 17 or No.7 or Rimmel or some such. I remember I picked it up while out with my sister, I must have been about 11 or 12 at the time. I remember my mam was concerned, oh no she'll be living in makeup know and I don't think she was too happy with my sister. If I recall correctly I used it a couple of times and completely forgot about the whole thing and didn't properly start wearing makeup then until I was about 16. Again I think it was a birthday gift from my sister that got me started, Elizabeth Arden foundation was what began it all for me.
7. It's the year 2020, where do you hope to be in life?
Ok so 6 years from now? Hmmm let me think, I would possibly be married by then (well considering I'm in a relationship 8 years at this stage, just need to wait until we're both finished college and officially grown ups - haha). I would like to have some further experience working in a field I love, trying out a whole new sector since November of last year, so watch this space. Perhaps kids will be on the horizon by then too. Not sure I'll have had them yet, but I'm sure we'll be planning at least by then! Essentially hoping to be fulfilled in my home life as well as my career. I will definitely have gotten a lot of travel under my belt by then, that's for sure!
8. What is your drink of choice when you go out?
Well my hands down favourite drink is a Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri, but since you can rarely get a decent version in most places, my usual go to drink is Corona.
9. We all have a "Dirty Sexy Crush", so tell me, who is yours?
I don't know about dirty sexy, but I do have many a crush! The likes of Zachary Quinto, Chace Crawford, Ewan McGregor, Jake Gyllenhaal, etc. etc.
Ok so I'm supposed to tag 5 people, but instead I've decided if you're reading this, I tag YOU! Go on, you know you want to!
Make sure to put your link below, so I can see your responses...
1. If you were a rockstar what items would you demand on your rider?
My realist answer would be comfy PJs, cosy slippers and a mega fast laptop. However since I'm now a rock star and thus am allowed to be a diva, I'm going to choose chilled sparkling elderflower water, white roses, peanut butter M&Ms and Lisa Eldridge (I figure if I'm going to be on the road all the time, she'd be the only one capable of making me look stage ready)! By the way, if you don't know who Lisa Eldridge is, you need to head on over here now!
2. If you could afford any designer piece, be it clothing, shoes or accessories, what would it be and how would you style it? If you can, post a picture.
Well I've always always always wanted a Michael Kors Rose Gold watch, so I plan on getting that as a gift to myself when I finish college this summer (for good this time I promise, I think 3 qualifications and 8 years later, I'm done with University)! So next on my list (and sure I may as well aim high) would definitely be a Chanel 2.55 handbag in black. I think it would look perfect with anything you might choose to wear on a night out. It's something you would have forever and would never go out of fashion (so really it's an investment more than anything)!
Photo courtesy of featherfactor.com
3. What kind of teenager were you? Goth? Princess? Nerdy?
I was fairly run of the mill as far as teenagers go. I was pretty easy going, wasn't into anything goth-like. Since I had a part time job from age of 14, it excluded me from being a princess as I bought any bit and pieces I wanted with my own money. So I guess if I had to pick one it would be Nerdy. Mind you I wasn't particularly nerdy as a teenager (I'm WAY more of a nerd now - haha). But I kept my head down and just hung out with my own friends, didn't cause any hassle and sorted of just drifted through my teenage years without causing my parents too much heart ache!
4. This one is a bit morbid. If you could have any quote as your epitaph, what would it be and why?
Hmmm this is an interesting one, I had to think about it. I've decided on...
"Let love be the leading role in the tale of your life"
Just something simple, I think if we all showed more love to one another, we'd all be happier in the long-run.
5. What fictional character would you most like to have dinner with and why?
Walter White. I would be so scared no doubt, but it would be amazing to meet the man in person, try get inside that brain!
6. Tell me about your first ever makeup purchase.
I'm quite surprised I can actually still remember this, it was a peach/bronze coloured eye shadow. Just a single shade, it was either 17 or No.7 or Rimmel or some such. I remember I picked it up while out with my sister, I must have been about 11 or 12 at the time. I remember my mam was concerned, oh no she'll be living in makeup know and I don't think she was too happy with my sister. If I recall correctly I used it a couple of times and completely forgot about the whole thing and didn't properly start wearing makeup then until I was about 16. Again I think it was a birthday gift from my sister that got me started, Elizabeth Arden foundation was what began it all for me.
7. It's the year 2020, where do you hope to be in life?
Ok so 6 years from now? Hmmm let me think, I would possibly be married by then (well considering I'm in a relationship 8 years at this stage, just need to wait until we're both finished college and officially grown ups - haha). I would like to have some further experience working in a field I love, trying out a whole new sector since November of last year, so watch this space. Perhaps kids will be on the horizon by then too. Not sure I'll have had them yet, but I'm sure we'll be planning at least by then! Essentially hoping to be fulfilled in my home life as well as my career. I will definitely have gotten a lot of travel under my belt by then, that's for sure!
8. What is your drink of choice when you go out?
Well my hands down favourite drink is a Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri, but since you can rarely get a decent version in most places, my usual go to drink is Corona.
9. We all have a "Dirty Sexy Crush", so tell me, who is yours?
I don't know about dirty sexy, but I do have many a crush! The likes of Zachary Quinto, Chace Crawford, Ewan McGregor, Jake Gyllenhaal, etc. etc.
Ok so I'm supposed to tag 5 people, but instead I've decided if you're reading this, I tag YOU! Go on, you know you want to!
Make sure to put your link below, so I can see your responses...
08 March 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Princess Product
Welcome to Week 5 of the #BOBBlogChallenge. Over the half way mark now, only 3 more weeks to. So another relatively short one this week as it only focuses on 1 high end product (whether makeup or skincare) that you would consider a princess product.
So if you saw my recent haul post, you will recognise this Chanel Hydra Beauty Serum. So I've been using it for about 3 weeks now and I'm in love!
After I've cleansed my face with Clinique Cleansing Balm, I put 2 pumps of this onto my face and let it soak in before applying my moisturiser. As the name would suggest it's for hydrating your skin, I have always said I have dry skin, but I've discovered it's quite possible I just have dehydrated skin. My skin has literally never felt so good, I don't have the same tightness or my makeup drying into my skin in patches anymore. This product has honestly changed my skin like no other has before.
Now as the title suggests, it is a princess product, so as far as serums go, it's pretty expensive. You can pick this up at a Chanel counter for €78. But I think it's worth every penny.
Have you ever used this serum?
Perhaps you have some great recommendations for a hydrating serum at a more affordable price?
Now as the title suggests, it is a princess product, so as far as serums go, it's pretty expensive. You can pick this up at a Chanel counter for €78. But I think it's worth every penny.
Have you ever used this serum?
Perhaps you have some great recommendations for a hydrating serum at a more affordable price?
27 February 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Pamper Products
Can't believe we're already onto week 4 of #BOBBlogChallenge, time is flying in! Ok this week's post made me realise I need to have a little more "me" time... I genuinely have nothing to put in here. Perhaps that's a little sad. I don't even have a bath in my apartment, so no relaxing soaks for me anyway. I genuinely cannot remember the last time I used a face mask or gave my hair a conditioning treatment...
If I have some extra time before heading out at the weekend, I'll try a little harder with my makeup or I might try a new style in my hair, but I just point blank do not "pamper" myself with little treatments. This week I have definitely realised that needs to change.
I did however recenrly pick up a conditioning treatment from LUSH for my hair, so I'll be giving that a go tonight. I will report back on what I think.
I think from this week's challenge, what I'm mostly looking out for is ideas from fellow bloggers. What suggestions do you have for me and my pampering starter kit?
If I have some extra time before heading out at the weekend, I'll try a little harder with my makeup or I might try a new style in my hair, but I just point blank do not "pamper" myself with little treatments. This week I have definitely realised that needs to change.
I did however recenrly pick up a conditioning treatment from LUSH for my hair, so I'll be giving that a go tonight. I will report back on what I think.
I think from this week's challenge, what I'm mostly looking out for is ideas from fellow bloggers. What suggestions do you have for me and my pampering starter kit?
20 February 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Make Up Must Haves
Week 3 of the #BOBBlogChallenge already? This week the focus is Make Up Must Haves, those essential items you just can't live without! I also recommend heading over to All The Buzz to check out Samantha's post and to see all the participants in the Challenge!
So I've rounded up the troops and I think I'm left with the following essentials...
First up is the Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum, not to be confused with the foundation, the serum has a nice light, velvety feel to it. I have mentioned this foundation time and time again on my blog, so instead of boring you, here is a full review. I wear it day and night, I love it!
Next up is the Bobbi Brown Corrector. It's perfect for on the go, it covers under your eyes well, with a tiny hint of highlight. I have my one quite a long time now and I still haven't hit pan, so while it's not super cheap, it definitely is lasting a lot longer than any concealer I have ever owned. To top it all off, it has a little mirror in, which saves me carrying around an extra item in my makeup bag, perfect!
I have five of these Maybelline Colour Tattoo 24hr Cream Shadows in total and I love them all. They're great as an eyeshadow themselves, but even more commonly I use them as a base for other shades. I find using these stops all other shadows from budging, even after hours of wear. I also find whenever there is some wear, it's great to have a lasting shade underneath (which is why I have 5 shades, I will try to match the cream shadow base with the colour I am actually wearing).
Finally I have the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Endless. I love this mascara for really separating and lengthening my lashes. Then if I want dramatic eyes I will usually layer it with another volumising mascara. It's perfect on its own for everyday wear as well as for nights out!
So that's it for another week, do you own any of these products, what do you think of them?
What are your make up must haves?
So I've rounded up the troops and I think I'm left with the following essentials...
First up is the Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum, not to be confused with the foundation, the serum has a nice light, velvety feel to it. I have mentioned this foundation time and time again on my blog, so instead of boring you, here is a full review. I wear it day and night, I love it!
Next up is the Bobbi Brown Corrector. It's perfect for on the go, it covers under your eyes well, with a tiny hint of highlight. I have my one quite a long time now and I still haven't hit pan, so while it's not super cheap, it definitely is lasting a lot longer than any concealer I have ever owned. To top it all off, it has a little mirror in, which saves me carrying around an extra item in my makeup bag, perfect!
This is definitely my "go to" lipstick. I think it's great for everyday wear, while also having enough colour for nights out too! I'm rarely without this Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick. So much so, it's almost finished at this stage. Would you believe it'll be the first EVER lipstick I completely used? I usually lose a lipstick or grow bored of it before I could ever possibly reach the end. So I don't think it could come with a stronger endorsement from me!
I have five of these Maybelline Colour Tattoo 24hr Cream Shadows in total and I love them all. They're great as an eyeshadow themselves, but even more commonly I use them as a base for other shades. I find using these stops all other shadows from budging, even after hours of wear. I also find whenever there is some wear, it's great to have a lasting shade underneath (which is why I have 5 shades, I will try to match the cream shadow base with the colour I am actually wearing).
Finally I have the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Endless. I love this mascara for really separating and lengthening my lashes. Then if I want dramatic eyes I will usually layer it with another volumising mascara. It's perfect on its own for everyday wear as well as for nights out!
So that's it for another week, do you own any of these products, what do you think of them?
What are your make up must haves?
18 February 2014
Mini Haul | MAC, Chanel, Bourjois...
Ok so I couldn't entirely resist the shops this weekend. I might have no money, but that didn't seem to stop me last week. Sure isn't that what credit cards are for? So I thought I'd share with you the few bits I picked up....
So I made a quick lunch time trip down Henry street and somehow within 30 minutes managed to drop into MAC, Arnotts and Boots. So from MAC I picked up Plumful from the Lustre range. Which I've been meaning to pick up ever since I heard Estée from Essie Button mention it in one of her videos a few months back. It's such a pretty shade and it feels so nice on the lips.
Next it was into Chanel where I initially went in to pick up their pressed powder, as I heard great things about it for someone like me with dry skin. I had a good chat with the lady in Chanel about dry skin, dehydrated skin and the difference between the two. She was fairly confident my skin was just dehydrated. So instead I left the powder and picked up the hydrating serum (the price tag is not for the faint of heart). But after using it for a couple of days, my skin feels much softer and all the breakouts I've had for the last few months seem to finally be clearing (breakouts are apparently a by-product of dehydrated skin I'm told). I will definitely do a proper review, once I've been using it for a few weeks...
Next up I went to boots and picked up a moisturiser, if I'm being totally honest I have yet to land on a specific brand here. I swap and change all the time. I'm completely committed to my cleanser, but I jump from moisturiser to moisturiser. It's one area, I need to give a little more care and attention. So I've tried this one before and it seemed okay, so I'm back again to No7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream.
Then I picked up one of all time favourite foundations, Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum. If you want a full review of this foundation, you can look back to a previous post here. Although now I use the Real Techniques buffing brush to apply it for a much more even, flawless, finish.
I also then picked up these two sprays from V05 which I've heard a bit about through the blogging world, I have never tried any texturising sprays before ever, so I look forward to reporting back on how I find them. I have heard a lot of buzz about the Oribe texturising spray, but I wasn't ready to part with €50 for a type of product I've never used before. I will however give this pair a try at only €7 for the 2 of them, what a bargain!
And the final product is a cult favourite, which needs no introduction, the Batiste dry shampoo. I always get the original one as I am not a big fan of scented hair products. But of course you couldn't fault it and I need not go into any detail here, as everyone is fully up to speed and obsessed with Batiste!
So guys and gals, do you have any of these products?
Or have you been hitting the shops lately?
So I made a quick lunch time trip down Henry street and somehow within 30 minutes managed to drop into MAC, Arnotts and Boots. So from MAC I picked up Plumful from the Lustre range. Which I've been meaning to pick up ever since I heard Estée from Essie Button mention it in one of her videos a few months back. It's such a pretty shade and it feels so nice on the lips.
Next it was into Chanel where I initially went in to pick up their pressed powder, as I heard great things about it for someone like me with dry skin. I had a good chat with the lady in Chanel about dry skin, dehydrated skin and the difference between the two. She was fairly confident my skin was just dehydrated. So instead I left the powder and picked up the hydrating serum (the price tag is not for the faint of heart). But after using it for a couple of days, my skin feels much softer and all the breakouts I've had for the last few months seem to finally be clearing (breakouts are apparently a by-product of dehydrated skin I'm told). I will definitely do a proper review, once I've been using it for a few weeks...
Next up I went to boots and picked up a moisturiser, if I'm being totally honest I have yet to land on a specific brand here. I swap and change all the time. I'm completely committed to my cleanser, but I jump from moisturiser to moisturiser. It's one area, I need to give a little more care and attention. So I've tried this one before and it seemed okay, so I'm back again to No7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream.
Then I picked up one of all time favourite foundations, Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum. If you want a full review of this foundation, you can look back to a previous post here. Although now I use the Real Techniques buffing brush to apply it for a much more even, flawless, finish.
I also then picked up these two sprays from V05 which I've heard a bit about through the blogging world, I have never tried any texturising sprays before ever, so I look forward to reporting back on how I find them. I have heard a lot of buzz about the Oribe texturising spray, but I wasn't ready to part with €50 for a type of product I've never used before. I will however give this pair a try at only €7 for the 2 of them, what a bargain!
And the final product is a cult favourite, which needs no introduction, the Batiste dry shampoo. I always get the original one as I am not a big fan of scented hair products. But of course you couldn't fault it and I need not go into any detail here, as everyone is fully up to speed and obsessed with Batiste!
So guys and gals, do you have any of these products?
Or have you been hitting the shops lately?
13 February 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Hair Heroes
Ok so we're on to Week 2 of the #BOBBlogChallenge started by the amazing Sam over at All The Buzz. This week focuses on Hair Heroes.
So when it comes to hair maintenance I wash my hair with shampoo and then condition (the ends) with whatever brand I have on the go. So far I have yet to be tied down to any particular brand. It's moreso the after shower maintenance where I've made some long term commitments! Once I've towel dried my hair, I spray it with Aussie Miracle Hair Insurance Leave-In Conditioner and comb it through. It's perfect as a de-tangler and helps to give my highlighted hair some shine. Not to mention it smells fabulous!
Next I use TRESemmé Heat Protector. I find it works well for me and leaves a nice finish on my hair. What I particularly like is the spray you get from the product. I have found a lot of other brands, the spray fire out the spray in a concentrated line, thus giving you spots with loads of product and other areas with none. The fine mist with this product is perfect.
When it comes to combing these products through my hair, I couldn't be without my Tangle Teezer. While I feel more like I'm combing a horse's mane than a head of hair (due to the lack of a handle), I cannot argue with the results. I absolutely love this comb. I don't know how I did without one before, as I only have it less than a year, but I certainly won't go back. The version I have here is the travel one, so it's perfect for taking with you on the go, as the little cover stops the bristles from being bent or damaged. I would recommend this to everyone, I find it much less stressful on my hair than a wide tooth comb. It is also amazing for detangling my hair, which used to be quite the nightmare as I have highlights.
So while some of the other products I use change week in, week out, these three are consistently part of my hair care routine! And I don't see that changing for some time.
So what are you hair care heroes that you cannot be without?
So when it comes to hair maintenance I wash my hair with shampoo and then condition (the ends) with whatever brand I have on the go. So far I have yet to be tied down to any particular brand. It's moreso the after shower maintenance where I've made some long term commitments! Once I've towel dried my hair, I spray it with Aussie Miracle Hair Insurance Leave-In Conditioner and comb it through. It's perfect as a de-tangler and helps to give my highlighted hair some shine. Not to mention it smells fabulous!
Next I use TRESemmé Heat Protector. I find it works well for me and leaves a nice finish on my hair. What I particularly like is the spray you get from the product. I have found a lot of other brands, the spray fire out the spray in a concentrated line, thus giving you spots with loads of product and other areas with none. The fine mist with this product is perfect.
When it comes to combing these products through my hair, I couldn't be without my Tangle Teezer. While I feel more like I'm combing a horse's mane than a head of hair (due to the lack of a handle), I cannot argue with the results. I absolutely love this comb. I don't know how I did without one before, as I only have it less than a year, but I certainly won't go back. The version I have here is the travel one, so it's perfect for taking with you on the go, as the little cover stops the bristles from being bent or damaged. I would recommend this to everyone, I find it much less stressful on my hair than a wide tooth comb. It is also amazing for detangling my hair, which used to be quite the nightmare as I have highlights.
So while some of the other products I use change week in, week out, these three are consistently part of my hair care routine! And I don't see that changing for some time.
So what are you hair care heroes that you cannot be without?
06 February 2014
Best of Beauty Blog Challenge | Skin Care Saviours
I'm very excited to be getting involved in a Blogger challenge as this is my first one ever. It is the brain child of the fabulous Samantha over at All The Buzz. It is an 8 week challenge, and as the title of this post suggests, it's the "Best of Beauty Blog Challenge". You can find everyone who is involved through Twitter via the hashtag #BOBBlogChallenge.
For this post I am going to talk about my one true Skin Care Saviour and that's the Clinique Take Off The Day Cleansing Balm. It has changed my skin care routine forever. I have been using it for 6 months now and I can't imagine how I ever went without.
I first heard about it from the YouTuber, A Model Recommends and have never looked back. As with all cleansing balms, it is quite a lard-like consistency. Once you take an amount into your hands however, it melts from the heat of your skin. So when you massage it into your face, it is more of an oil-like consistency. Fear not if you suffer from oily skin, this cleanser is suitable for all skin types. It does not leave your skin feeling oily, just incredibly refreshed.
When I've finished massaging it all over my face (including my eyes), I use a damp piece of cotton to remove the balm. I know a lot of people use cloths of various kinds, but to be honest I have an excess of cotton pads at home and the nice lady at the Clinique counter actually suggested dampening a cotton pad, so I went with it and it works a treat so far anyway. One of my favourite things about this cleanser is that I can use it to remove waterproof mascara, which means the cleansing process only requires one product instead of an extra step using eye makeup remover. In summary, I would recommend this product to everyone. It retails for €28 in boots and lasts for over 2 months. An excellent investment as far as I'm concerned!
Have you ever used cleansing balms, what is your favourite one?
What is your holy grail skin care product?
For this post I am going to talk about my one true Skin Care Saviour and that's the Clinique Take Off The Day Cleansing Balm. It has changed my skin care routine forever. I have been using it for 6 months now and I can't imagine how I ever went without.
I first heard about it from the YouTuber, A Model Recommends and have never looked back. As with all cleansing balms, it is quite a lard-like consistency. Once you take an amount into your hands however, it melts from the heat of your skin. So when you massage it into your face, it is more of an oil-like consistency. Fear not if you suffer from oily skin, this cleanser is suitable for all skin types. It does not leave your skin feeling oily, just incredibly refreshed.
When I've finished massaging it all over my face (including my eyes), I use a damp piece of cotton to remove the balm. I know a lot of people use cloths of various kinds, but to be honest I have an excess of cotton pads at home and the nice lady at the Clinique counter actually suggested dampening a cotton pad, so I went with it and it works a treat so far anyway. One of my favourite things about this cleanser is that I can use it to remove waterproof mascara, which means the cleansing process only requires one product instead of an extra step using eye makeup remover. In summary, I would recommend this product to everyone. It retails for €28 in boots and lasts for over 2 months. An excellent investment as far as I'm concerned!
Have you ever used cleansing balms, what is your favourite one?
What is your holy grail skin care product?
31 January 2014
Wish List | Spring Make Up Essentials
Okay okay, so they might not be "essentials" per se, but I've managed to pick out some of my favourite items that are out at the moment or being released for Spring/Summer 2014. We've managed to make it through dreary January (almost) and it's time to look forward! What better way to pick yourself up than creating your very own Spring 2014 wishlist. Essentially I am looking for justification for these purchases and if I put them "out there", no one can be surprised or shocked when I come home, bags full. You've been warned!
Urban Decay - Naked 3 Palette
MAC Viva Glam Rihanna Lipstick NARS Guy Bourd Cinematic Lip (Full Frontal)
WetnWild - Trio - Cool as a Cucumber MAC Veluxe Brow Liner
Barry M NP318 - Bourjois Violet Couture - NARS Wind Dancer
Have you already got any of these products, what do you think of them?
What is on your Wishlist for Spring 2014?
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28 January 2014
The Blogger Tag
Welcome everyone to The Blogger Tag! I decided to create a tag specifically for bloggers, I didn't come across anything similar, so I don't think it's been done already. But as with any tag post, the rules are simple:
1. Answer all the questions below
2. Tag fellow bloggers in the post
3. Link back to blogger who tagged you
4. When you post your response and you're advertising it, use the hashtag #BloggerTag
It's for a little fun and since it's January, it also touches on some of the ambitions we all have for our blogs in 2014. It is also a great opportunity to find fellow bloggers along the way. There is no restriction on the content of your blog to get involved. So let us begin...
1. When did you start your blog?
April 2013, so not even a year old yet, but the time has flown by!
2. What encouraged you to start?
I read loads of other blogs and watch plenty of beauty gurus on YouTube that I find helpful and I was always sharing tips with friends, I thought it might be nice to have a centralised place for all those tips.
3. What was the first blog you ever actively followed?
Fleur De Force is where it all began for me. She is based in England and I really like her style of blogging, she also has a YouTube channel which I'm subscribed to and watch regularly.
4. What types of things do you blog about?
Mostly about beauty (i.e. makeup, skincare, reviews, monthly favourites and that type of thing) but I do add in little bits of fashion, tv and general lifestyle
5. What has been your biggest revelation since beginning to blog?
The community spirit out there. I have only been to one meet up so far, but the encouragement and comradery is second to none. I feel I have already started to make some genuine friendships, which is something I never expected.
6. What do you find toughest about blogging?
Without doubt my biggest obstacle for me is time. I am working full time and completing a masters part time, when you include the fact I need to eat, sleep and socialise in there somewhere too, time is a rare commodity.
7. What is your favourite thing about blogging?
When you get a comment or feedback from someone that they found your post beneficial or helpful. It is great to know (and hard to believe) that some of my ramblings have helped someone out in someway. I know I'm not writing any ground breaking stuff, but it's always nice to make some kind of impact!
8. What are your blogging ambitions for 2014?
I would love to get more involved in Bloglovin' as it's an excellent platform for blogs, so really promote that social networking platform. Then outside of that I would like to release a minimum of one post per week (but ideally 2-3 posts) and really strengthen my viewership through Twitter and Facebook.
9. Recommend 5 Blogs for anyone reading this to follow...
Fleur DeForce, Tanya Burr, All the Buzz, At the Beauty Desk & Blushful Beauty
(there are of course sooo many more I could chose, but I had to stick to 5)
10. Who do you tag?
I tag Samantha Johnston, Sarah Hamersley, Avril Murphy, Filomena Kaguako, Lisa Molloy, Make Up Monster, Megan Daly & Lisa De Jong.
So that's it, even if you haven't been tagged and you want to get involved, feel free. Make sure to use #BloggerTag so everyone can see each others' responses.
Happy tagging...
26 January 2014
Brand Obsession | Cath Kidston
I was pretty late to the Cath Kidston party, but now that I've caught up I'm in love. I managed to restrict myself to only two purchases so far. But I'm always keeping an eye on the website for any bargains! As the company is celebrating their 20th birthday this year I thought I would give them a mention today. To find fellow Kidstonites and maybe convert a few others who may have never heard of Cath Kidston.
I would like to preface this post with the comment, I have no connection with Cath Kidston, this post is no way sponsored, I am just in love with the brand!
So Kidston herself was born in England in 1958. It wasn't until 1994, that the brand itself began, her first shop in London. Her vision was to merge the traditional prints of her English countryside childhood with a more modern twist. She started out just selling small items like cushion covers, ironing board covers and second hand furniture which she customised herself. Then she began to branch out and create more products with her signature prints including washbags and swimsuits. After she began attending trade fairs and selling her products wholesale, she garnered much deserved media attention and things escalated from there. Cath Kidston now produces handbags, accessories, home wear, clothing, kitchen wear and curtains. The company has grown considerably and much deserved as far as I'm concerned. Today there are 59 Cath Kidston stores across Ireland and the UK, with a further 54 across Spain, Japan, Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China.
I thought I would share with you all the couple of purchases I've made so far (stress on the "so far", I intend to buy much more on my next trip to the store...)
Daisy Rose Hand Bag
Polka Dot Washbag
As you can see the open Washbag has a hook on the top, so you can hang it anywhere from the back of the door, to hidden away in your wardrobe. It's great for travel or even as a place holder for your makeup at home. The separate compartments make it easy to keep track of everything.
Have you bought anything from the Cath Kidston range?
What is your favourite brand?
12 January 2014
Review | Úr Beauty Sponge & Mascara Wands
So I received a little package this week which was kindly sent to me from Úr Makeup*, which is an Irish make up brand created by Nichola Graham, MUA.
After giving the Beauty Sponge and re-usable Mascara Wands a go, I thought I would share my thoughts with you all.
After giving the Beauty Sponge and re-usable Mascara Wands a go, I thought I would share my thoughts with you all.
Firstly I used the sponge to apply my usual Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum foundation (which by the way I'm using year round now).
Initially I felt I had to use a little more foundation than usual, as a small bit got absorbed by the sponge (as is the nature of a sponge, so I wasn't too worried). But then I found my foundation blended incredibly naturally with this sponge and more importantly, it helped me seamlessly cover up the breakouts I'm currently experiencing along my jaw line. Then when applying my concealer, I also used the beauty sponge to blend it all in. While I am a big brush lover and usually shy away from sponges, I feel with continued practice I could get used to this sponge since I was definitely impressed with the finished result!
When it came to mascara I chose the curved wand without doubt I have to say I was in love with the results. It applied the mascara like a dream and the curve really helped with easily gliding the mascara onto the inner and outter corners lashes. It really is one of the best mascara wands I've ever used. Dare I say it, it might even trump my Rimmel Lash Accelerator wand! As the wands are re-usable I gave it a clean afterwards and was impressed with the cleaning capabilities, however it did take me quite a good scrubbing and some time. I think if I needed to use these on a regular basis with lots of different people I would need to invest in a proper cleaning brush to really take off all the product. As a comparison, the one on the left is the wand I used to apply black mascara, after a bit of a clean, this is how the wand looks. I honestly didn't think it would ever be pink again, so it's great to know the wands can handle a good clean.
Overall I am impressed with the sponge and especially the wands (particularly the curved one) and I would certainly recommend them to a friend. I am also excited this is an Irish company as I'm always eager to find Irish make up brands.
Have you tried the Úr Makeup range yet?
What are your thoughts?
04 January 2014
Favourites | The Best of 2013
Okay okay, it's been a couple of months, instead of boring you with the details, let's just get 2014 off to a productive start! What better way to begin the year than a quick look back to 2013 and what products I reached for time and time again! There are loads of products I could have included, but I really tried to keep it to the bare minimum of what I used almost everyday.
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