Roaccutane - 3 Month Update and Foundation Routine

Now that my third month on Roaccutane is finished, I should be half way through my treatment hopefully. The dermatologist has predicted 5/6 months in total.

My side effects have stayed the same, extremely dry lips, dry eyes and itchy, dry skin. The eczema on my back and hands is manageable with the creams I have been prescribed as well.

The only annoying part of this month has been my dermatologist appointments. One of the team has retired, leave the rest of the team struggling with work. My appointments haven’t been with my usual dermatologist and have been moved about a few times. This makes it difficult to get time off work to attend them. I’m hoping I’ll only have 2 more check-ups and then my treatment will end.

I thought as I don’t have much to report on side effects, I thought I’d chat through my foundation routine. All of my beauty products were centred around oily skin before the treatment started, so it’s been a case of trial and error to find things that work on extremely dry skin.

I’m still using my Cetaphil Rich Lotion after cleansing, this stops the itching and keeps my skin moisturised. I have also been reaching for Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentre, which is a lighter option that still delivers a moisture hit. Following on from these, I use the Too Faced Hangover X Primer, which is a recent discovery for me.

I’ve swapped heavy, matte foundations for this Laura Mercier Silk Crème Moisturising Photo Edition one. As the name suggests it has a light, moisturising finish. You do look shiny when you apply this but I dust over some of the Laura Mercier Translucent Powder to create a satin finished.

I’ve noticed that the tablets have really dehydrated my under eye area, creating fine lines, so I use my Origins Eye Doctor Eye Cream religiously. I’ve had to switch out my beloved Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer for the Laura Mercier Candleglow Concealer. It’s much more forgiving on the area but with this comes a lighter coverage, so not one for those who suffer from purple toned eye bags.

These products last all day on the skin, with only minimal creasing or wear which is very impressive considering the condition of my skin.

I’d love to know what makeup favourites you have for dry skin!

Festive Red and Gold Makeup Edit

When I imagine of Christmas makeup, I instantly think gold and red shades. I've created an edit of my favourite makeup pieces to create a sparkly gold eyeshadow and matte red lip combo, finished with either a gold or red nail.

Starting with the eyes, I would reach for my Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Memorise in Jean and pat this all over the lid, it's a one wash wonder. The cream eyeshadow gives a lovely sheen but also creates a base for glitter to stick to. I have a pot of loose glitter from Topshop, which I pat over the top using a flat brush. A less messier option is the Collection Glam Crystals Glitter Eyeliner in Funk. It's a liquid that you can pack onto the lid and it creates a wonderful sparkle.

When you need the perfect red matte pout you have to turn to MAC, this lipstick is in the shade, Russian Red. I do also love Ruby Woo and Lady Danger from MAC, so pick a shade to suit your style. I perfected the edges with my Essence Lip Liner in Femme Fatale, you can neaten the cupids bow and fix any little mistakes.

Not forgetting the nails, I picked three of my festive favourites. For a bit of sparkle, I would either opt for Model's Own Disco Inferno, which can be layered or worn on it's own, or Barry M's Texture Nail Polish in Dutchess. Be warned these are a b*tch to remove but well worth the hassle. If gold nails aren't for you, I adore this Marc Jacobs red polish in the shade Jezebel.

These pieces should leave you feeling festive and glamourous ready for Christmas Day!
What are your festive makeup picks?

Warming Up Winter Skin - Bronzers for Pale Skin

Winter skin can often look dull and tired, especially when you have pale skin. I look ghostly over the winter months, without any colour to my face I look ill. A bit of bronzer can work wonders and will bring your face back to life. Here are my tried and tested bronzers for pale skin.

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Bronzer

The Holy Grail of bronzers for pale skin. This buttery soft, matte powder is so blendable that it's impossible to go wrong with it. Plus it smells like chocolate.

Benefit Hoola Bronzer

I always thought this bronzer would be too dark as Benefit only sell one shade, I picked up the mini to give it a go and fell in love. Like the Too Faced option it blends effortlessly, it is however a little darker than the Soleil Bronzer. 

Givenchy Les Saisons Healthy Glow Powder in 03 Ambre Saisons

I'd purchased this after seeing Susie from Hello October mention it in the summer. This lightweight powder has a slight sheen, which helps provide the glow. It works wonderfully in summer but it also helps to brighten and bronze tired winter skin.

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow 

This cult CT product is a mix of the Soleil Bronzer and the Givenchy Healthy Glow, the base of the bronzer is matte but it has a tiny bit of shimmer running through it. Don't worry, it doesn't leave you looking like a disco ball, it's more of a subtle sheen, which you can amp up with the highlighter from the palette.

Which bronzer do you reach for in the winter?

High End Christmas Wishlist

We all have a little dream about finding high-end fashion and beauty items under the Christmas tree. I wouldn't expect anyone to buy me anything from this list, (to be honest, I'm happy with a box of chocolates and a bottle of fizz) but in case someone wins the lottery and feels generous...

What's on your wishlist?

13 Reasons Why I Love Christmas

1. It’s acceptable to eat chocolate for breakfast.
2. Christmas PJ’s – the louder and cheesier the pattern the better. Primark do the best ones.
3. I can belt out Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas’ – favourite Christmas song by the way.
4. Spending more time with the family, Christmas is the best excuse to get together.
5. Demolishing Christmas buffets – pigs in blankets and cheese and crackers are my favourites.
6. Christmas lights on the houses – we used to take a tour of the village in the car with my parents looking at all of the decorations.
7. Childhood handmade ornaments that your mum refuses to throw out – you wouldn’t believe I went on to study art by looking at my DIY Santa and angel for the top of the tree.
8. When you find a gift for someone and you know they will LOVE it!
9. Christmas drinks at coffee shops accompanied by slabs of cake.
10. Themed displays in shop windows – Selfridges always have the best!
11. Ugly Christmas jumpers.
12. Festive red makeup – nails and lips.
13. Buying presents from yourself – from me, to me!

 What's your favourite thing about Christmas?

Roaccutane - 2 Month Update

So month 2 of my Roaccutane treatment is over! My first month was on a dose of 30mg and last month I was bumped up to the full dose of 60mg. With this change, I have noticed an increase in my symptoms.

In the first month it was mainly my face and hands that suffered with dry, itchy skin but in this last month the skin on my body has dried up too. I have patches of eczema on my back and arms. It’s manageable, I just have to apply cream every day to the affected area.

My lips have dried further and I have a terrible habit of biting my lips making them sore. I apply lip balm like it’s going out of fashion. I have one in my car, at my desk, in my room and one in my handbag.

I mentioned having terrible headaches in the first month of treatment but this symptom has stopped. However, in replacement, I have blurred vision. I went for an eye test believing my eye sight had become worse but the practitioner assured me that my eyes were very dry, which was the cause of the blurriness. I had already started using eye drops at the end of month 1 but now I use them a few times a day as I look at a computer screen for work.

Like the first month, I have only had 2 or 3 small spots and no cystic breakouts, which is amazing. I’m still using Cetaphil as my main moisturiser for my face, along with prescribed creams from the dermatologist. I have a thick cream for my lips which I apply overtime, plus a cream for the areas affected by eczema. 

I've found a few people on Twitter who are also on Roaccutane, so it's been nice to chat to others through the treatment. If you are thinking about going on the medication or have any questions, just tweet me @cherriesbeauty . You can see my other blog posts on Roaccutane here.

Skincare You NEED To Add To Your Christmas List

A good skincare routine is an investment worth making, so why not put these luxurious products on your list to Santa.

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel

This is a favourite of Lily Pebbles and Anna from The Anna Edit, anything they recommend immediately have to purchase. This cleanser is both simple but also luxurious at the same time. The packaging makes for easy application and the consistency is a wonderful mix between a balm and a gel.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

I've mentioned my love for this product a few times, it's my all time favourite cleanser. It melts away makeup in seconds and leaves the skin feeling incredibly soft.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

In a sea of moisturisers available in department stores, it's hard to find a product that wows you, but this one certainly does wow me. It feels incredibly sumptuous but light in texture at the same time. If I want to create an at home facial, I will always reach for this.

Pixi Glow Tonic

A bestseller from Pixi, mainly thanks to Caroline Hiron's rave reviews. This is a quick pick me up for tired and dull winter skin. Add it to your routine twice a week to notice the difference in your skin's texture and appearance.

Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist

Central heating zaps my skin of any moisture in the colder months, a few spritzes of this mist can bring your skin back to life. It's also amazing for reviving cakey makeup, leaving it looking fresher with a slight glow.

Origins Clear Improvement Face Mask

There hundred of clay masks on the market but this Origins option trumps them all. I apply this once a week and my skin looks instantly better, smaller pores and any spots have reduced in size.

Sunday Riley Luna Night Oil

For those who suffer from acne scarring and textural issues, this has to go on your Christmas list. The blue oil works it's magic overnight and your skin looks noticeably clearer in the morning.

Clarins Lotus Oil

Oily skin can often still be dehydrated, this oil solves the problem without overloading your skin or making it more greasy.

Skin Chemists Advanced Caviar Facial Serum 

If you want to amp up your skincare routine and make your moisturiser effective, opt for a serum like this one from Skin Chemists. It has a light gel texture which sinks into the skin quickly, ready for the next step in your routine.

Skin Chemists Advanced Caviar Night Moisturiser

How stunning is the silver sphere packaging? You could display this moisturiser on your bedside table with pride. This night option feels beautifully rich and nourishing on the skin.

I have an amazing discount for my readers on Skin Chemists products, which means you can get a whopping 70% off! Just enter the code CAVBLOG1 at the checkout, ends 1st Jan 2017.

What skincare have you added to your Christmas list?

*This post contains PR samples

Warming Winter Fragrances

When winter rolls around, I opt for warming and slightly sexier fragrances. I stash away my floral fragrances like Viktor an Rolf Flowerbomb and Chloe's signature scent and replace them with these winter warmers.

Paco Rabanne Lady Million and Olympea
I can recognise Lady Million on someone else within seconds, it's a classic heady perfume and Olympea is it's sweeter sister version. Both contain notes of jasmine, but Lady Million has deeper notes of patchouli and neroli, where as Olympea has sweeter notes of vanilla.

YSL Black Opium
This fragrance seems to be having a moment and I can see why, it's sweet but warming. Coffee, patchouli and cedarwood create a dark base, with pops of vanilla and orange blossom bringing in the sweetness.

Jo Malone Mimosa and Cardamon 
I haven't smelt anything like this Jo Malone perfume before, which is why I was drawn to it. The cardamon is very comforting and the mimosa brings an element of sexiness.

House of Fraser have a wonderful selection of fragrances, including my favourites, plus a Fragrance Guide to help you find something that suits you!

What fragrances do you like to wear in the winter?

John Frieda Frizz Ease #CurlCollective Review

I have used the John Frieda Smoothing haircare range for years. I'm guilty of trying to flatten and straighten my naturally curly hair but when John Frieda sent me their Frizz Ease Dream Curls range, I was ready to embrace them again. I thought I'd share my thoughts on the range and whether the products helped to enhanced my natural curls.

Starting in the shower with the shampoo and conditioner. The shampoo cleaned my hair well without drying it out and the conditioner helped to smooth the hair without it feeling weighed down. I usually squeeze out the excess water out with a towel and then wrap my hair up in my Turbie Towel. I find letting my hair dry a little in the towel cuts time of the natural drying time.

Once my hair was starting to dry, I combed through a little bit of the Daily Styling Spray and the Air Dry Waves Styling Foam. The foam was a little drying on the hair, so make sure to brush any tangles out. I couldn't feel either of the products in my hair once it had dried completely, which is a thumbs up from me.

Sleeping on curls often flattens them, so in the morning I used a tiny amount of the Calming Creme to de-fizz and the Curl Reviver on patches where the curls looked like they needed a refresh. Both products helped to revive the style and keep my curls bouncy.

Overall, I love the range, they are simple but effective products which smell incredible. The John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls range has helped me fall back in love with my natural curls, perhaps I put the straighteners away for a little while...

Christmas Party Fashion Picks

With party season fast approaching, I go into panic mode and scour the online shops for the best outfits and accessories.

Christmas is the best excuse to embellish yourself with glitter, sequins, velvet, fur and splashes of festive red. Here are some of my Christmas party picks, you can click the products you like and shop straight away. I'd suggest grabbing the Gucci-esque snake bag before it sells out!

Cafe Rouge Autumn Winter Menu #RougeAWIssue #AutumnEdition

My sister and I wrapped up warm and headed out on a horrible rainy evening to our local Cafe Rouge restaurant in Chester. The weather had me craving warm and comforting food, luckily their new Autumn/Winter menu had plenty of options!

We skipped starters, I'm more of a pudding kind of girl, and went straight to the mains. I opted for the Beef Bourguignon and my sister chose the Confit de Canard (duck leg).

Our meal arrived quickly and we got stuck in! The beef in my bourguignon was so tender and melted in the mouth, plus the red wine sauce complemented the rich meat wonderfully. I, of course, had to try my sister's duck and it was safe to say it was delicious!

We ended with two scrumptious desserts; I tucked into the Tarte Aux Pommes, a wonderful mix of buttery but crisp pastry with warm apples and cinnamon, completed with a scoop of ice cream. My sister had the Fondant Aux Chocolats, a chocolatey, melt in the middle pudding. However, she didn't want to share this with me and I don't blame her!

I haven't had such delicious food from a restaurant chain before and the Chester team were so friendly, plus service was quick. Can't recommend Cafe Rouge's A/W menu enough!

*Complimentary meal provided but opinions are honest

Beauty Haul - Laura Mercier, Too Faced, Kiehl's and Armani

As my skin type has changed dramatically, from oily to dry, during my course of Roaccutane, I thought it would be worth investing in some new products that were more suitable.

I had to start from scratch with my base makeup, as all my long wearing foundations like Double Wear and All Nighter started to look cakey. I popped into Space NK to see if the beauty consultants could help me find some new products. I was recommended the Laura Mercier Silk Creme Moisturising Foundation and the Translucent Powder from the same brand.

I was a little scared of using a foundation that was labelled as moisturising, as previously with my oily skin I avoided them all costs. The foundation is extremely dewy but when set with the powder it creates the perfect base.

To go under my new Space NK purchases, I picked up the Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily SPF and the Too Faced Hangover X Primer. You'd think I was mad for buying SPF in the winter but Roaccutane makes your skin extremely sensitive to the sun and I want to prevent premature ageing. The moisturiser is a lovely light texture that doesn't leave a white cast on the face like most SPF's.

The Too Faced Hangover X Primer has been raved about on YouTube, and with good reason. It creates a wonderfully moisturised base to apply makeup over - a must for anyone with dry skin.

While at a consultation with Armani in Chester, I picked up their High Precision Concealer, which has the tiniest brush on the end, even smaller than liquid liner brushes. I thought this would be amazing to pin point conceal scarring, but it also can be used for the under eyes as it is easy to blend.

I also kindly recieved a Lip Maestro and Lip Magnet from Kate at the Chester Armani counter, you can read about my experience here.

I love all my new beauty bits, it's so nice to try things I wouldn't have been able to use with oily skin.

Roaccutane - 1 Month Update

I’ve been taking Roaccutane/Isotretinoin for over a month now, so I thought I’d update you guys on how I’ve been getting on and the side effects I have experienced.

For those of you who haven’t heard of Roaccutane/Isotretinoin it’s a medication prescribed by dermatologists to combat serve acne. It contains a retinoid/vitamin A which dries the skin and body over the course of the treatment, hopefully resulting in less oil being produced and the skin cells being renewed. I have previously had a course of Roaccutane when I was in high school but as I got older my hormones changed again so I needed another course.  

Before my course of tablets started I had a pregnancy test taken, as well as a liver function check, Roaccutane causes birth defects and can affect the liver so it’s important that both are checked.

One of the first side effects I noticed that 2 or 3 days into the first set of tablets was dry lips and they have been dry ever since. This is one of the most common side effects to the medication.  My skin soon started to dry up after the first week, I have switched from my matte moisturisers to Cetaphil Lotion, which is super moisturising. My skin just feels tight after cleansing and sometimes needs a top up of moisturiser towards the end of the day, but I haven’t experienced any peeling or flaking so far.

The skin on my body hasn’t started to dry out too much yet but I am expecting it will over the next month. However, I have developed eczema on my hands, I’ve just been prescribed a heavy duty cream a few days ago and it’s already helping.

One of the side effects that I have found the most difficult to deal with is the headaches. I work in an office at a computer from 8.30am until 5pm. I try and keep as hydrated as possible and try and get enough sleep to try and ease it. Linked to the headaches is eye pain as well as having dry eyes, I’ve bought eye drops to help combat this.

I’m really happy with how my skin is improving, I am feeling impatient but I have around 4-5 months left of treatment, so it’s a long course. I often chat about my side effects and any changes on my Twitter so check for regular updates in between these monthly posts. You can also see what products I have been using to keep my skin in good condition in my Skincare Update.

Armani Chester Beauty Experience

Other than Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation, the Armani range has completely new to me. The wonderful Kate from the Chester counter, booked me in for a one to one meeting to help me discover the history and feel of the Armani brand, and of course try some of the products out.

Giorgio Armani himself designs and approves all products, the line came after the success of this fashion line, hence the focus on textures feeling like fabrics – Luminous Silk Foundation, Sun Fabric Bronzer, Fluid Sheer Illuminator.

Kate stripped me back to bare skin using their luxurious skincare range, before we discussed the makeup products and I had a mini makeover.

My base comprised of the Maestro UV Primer, Armani Designer Cream Foundation, High Precision Concealer and the Micro-Fill Powder. With being on Roaccutane, my skin needs extra protection from the sun, even in winter, so SPF50 in the primer makes a perfect base.

The foundation has a lovely moisturising formula with plenty of glow, this worked well with my very parched skin. It’s not very high coverage so Kate used the High Precision Concealer under my eyes and on my acne scarring. A light dusting of the powder set the base but didn’t leave the skin looking cakey.

Next up, we moved onto eyes, one thing I learnt from Kate was that Armani love the Egyptian eye make-up look. Imagine the eyeshadow being pulled out, away from the crease and not upwards towards the brow bone, this extends the eyes and creates a sultry look. We went for a neutral smokey look using Eye Tints in Suede Smoke and Spice Smoke, as well as the Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in #1. The Eye and Brow Maestro in Ambre and Eyes to Kill Excess Black Mascara were used to complete the look.

I loved the look of the bronzers and blusher, Kate chose the Sun Fabric Bronzer in #200 and the Cheek Fabric Blusher in #506 for me. The big fluffy brush she applied them with was incredibly soft, I can highly recommend checking out the brushes if you are at a counter. Finally for the cheeks, Kate dabbed a touch of the Sheer Fluid Highlighter in #2 to add dimension. 

We used a lovely pink lip colour, the Lip Maestro in #508 to add a touch of colour to my lips. I did get a sneak peak of the new Lip Magnets too. The shade #200 is Armani’s signature red shade that is attended to suit all. You’ll find this colour in each of the lip ranges.

Kate also talked me through the exquisite fragrances on offer at the counter. Amber is listed as a note in lots of popular fragrances but it actually doesn’t smell of anything. The scent we know as amber is created on what people think the amber stone should smell like. The Armani Amber fragrance is on the top of my Christmas list.

I thoroughly enjoyed my mini makeover and chatting to Kate about the brand, I learnt so much. I have a few products to try so I’ll make sure to let you know my thoughts in future.

Autumn Boots Wishlist

My summer sandals have been packed away in the bottom of my wardrobe and now it's time to embrace Autumn fashion with some new boots.

I've picked some of my favourite ankle boots from the high street, some would be ideal for everyday wear and some can be worn on a night out to make an outfit more fitting with Autumn weather.

Clarks Black Ankle Boots via Brantano
These classic style boots will see you through Autumn and could be paired with any outfit!

River Island Glitter Block Heel Ankle Boots
Sometimes you just wanted to dress up an all black outfit, these boots would look incredible for the party season.

Next Suede Western Boots
I've been lusting after a pair of Ash western style boots and came across these dupes at Next, costing a fraction of the price.

Ego Zina Heeled Ankle Boots
These sock boots would look so stylish with a roll neck chunky jumper dress, to be dressed up or down for day and night.

Which boots have caught your eye?

*Sponsored Post

Skin Update and Product Switch Up

I am down two weeks into my course of Roaccutane and I've already started to see changes in my skin. The first thing I noticed was my lips drying out, then my t-zone started to feel tight after cleansing. 

I've already started adapting my skincare routine. I have stopped using acne fighting products and any exfoliating ingredients and swapped them about for simple skincare that combats dry skin.

My routine is now down to just three products after I cleanse, Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion, Dr Lipp Nipple Balm for Lips, and Origins Eye Doctor Eye Cream.

I would thoroughly recommend Cetaphil to anyone that suffers from dry skin, it doesn't contain any strong fragrances and it deeply nourishes the skin. It's been keeping flaky patches of skin in check.

I have noticed my eye area has become extremely dry, Origin's Eye Doctor is the only thing that seems to soothe them. I find my eyes are really dry and itchy so dotting some of this on soothes the skin instantly. 

The final step of my current routine is slapping on as much lip balm as possible. Roaccutane dries your lips out completely so Dr Lipps Nipple Balm for Lips has been a saviour. It's a very thick jelly consistency that creates a barrier from the cold weather and helps heal any cracks.

I'm currently trying out the Seven Sea Perfect 7 supplements, they aim to help with skin and nails, as well as energy and hormone activity, I'm enjoying taking them so far. You can find out more about the Perfect 7 on their website.

On my first month of Roaccutane I have been prescribed 30mg per day, this will be upped to a full dose of 60mg at the end of the month. So I'll keep you updated on side effects and the products I've been using.

*Sponsored post

Estee Lauder Double Wear vs Urban Decay All Night Foundation Review and Comparison

It’s a battle of the heavy weights today, I’m talking high coverage and long lasting foundations going head to head. Estee Lauder Double Wear versus Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation.

Before we get to the nitty-gritty of the comparison, a quick background on my skin type is needed. I have very oily skin, with acne and acne scarring, so as you can imagine I like full coverage, long wearing foundation. I apply both foundations with a damp Beauty Blender for an even finish. I always moisturise then apply a primer and finish with a matte powder after applying the foundation.

Estee Lauder has been my Holy Grail for a few years now, I was unable to find anything that matched its long wear time. Could Urban Decay’s new All Nighter Foundation knock Double Wear off the top spot?

PACKAGING

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Urban Decay’s offering is a lot edgier and more contemporary looking than the Estee Lauder foundation bottle. One of the biggest flaws that Double Wear has it that it doesn’t have a pump, although I have heard you can buy a MAC pump and it fits onto the bottle. I often just pour the foundation onto the back of my hand and end up with too much! The All Nighter foundation has a handy pump making it easier to dispense the amount you want. Both contain 30ml of product, so a draw on that front. I do think the Urban Decay version wins on packaging though.
Winner: Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation

FORMULA

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I’m going to be honest and say that both have a heavy, mask-like feel but the Urban Decay is ever so slightly lighter. I think this is down to the fact you need less of the UD option to cover the skin, so it does feel fractional better.

Double Wear takes a while to set and feels a little sticky until it dries, I haven’t found this at all with All Nighter. When I have very long days in London, both foundations feel heavy on the skin and by the end of the day I can’t wait to cleanse them off but I think you have to compromise with foundations like this to get the longevity.

I don’t have dry skin but I can imagine the heavy formulas of both would stick to dry patches so maybe get a sample first if you are worried about this. I have noticed that the Urban Decay Foundation does stick to the dip in my chin and sets oddly sometimes. My advice on this is to blend into the creases of your face, like chin and around the nose well.
Winner: Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation

WEAR AND LONGEVITY

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Double Wear gained its Holy Grail status previously as it didn’t slide off my face by lunchtime like most other foundations. It still does let some oils through, so blotting is needed occasionally. The Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation does last a few hours longer before I start to notice oils coming to the surface.

Both options do need a blot and show signs of wear after a few hours but nothing you can't easily fix.

Winner: Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation

I think Urban Decay’s All Nighter Foundation has knocked Estee Lauder’s Double Wear off the top spot! It’s little added things that have made it a winner. If you aren’t sure which to purchase for oily skin, I would recommend All Nighter!

Have you tried these foundations? Which one is your favourite?

Summer's Last Hurrah - Tatton Park

I spent what felt like the last day of pure summer sunshine in Tatton Park with my two best friends. I took my Olympus Pen along to capture some of the beautiful features within the gardens.

Tatton Park has a country manor house, animal petting zoo and stunning gardens. There is so much to see and do, you can easily spend the whole day there.

Have you ever visited Tatton Park?

Lush Liverpool Blogger Event and Halloween Collection

Last Thursday, I met up with the lovely Holly and visited the Liverpool Lush Spa for their Blogger Event. I'd previously been to a few of the Lush events at the Chester store, so I knew to expect lots of demonstrations of products and updates on the new Halloween collection.

The event had a huge turnout, bloggers split up into groups to make their way around the store, stopping at points where staff were on hand to give demos. We were also given small pots to gather samples with.

The first station was a hands on one, bloggers donned rubber gloves and got their hands stuck into ingredients to create the Comforter Bubble Bar or the Cupcake Face Mask. Next up was the make-up station, I picked up a sample of the Jackie Oats colour suppliment, which Becca Rose always raves about.

Two members of staff were on hand to help with your skincare needs, covering the fresh masks and pots of facial skincare. I went for the Million Dollar Moisturiser as I have heard Victoria from In The Frow speak about it, as well as the Ultrabland Cleanser, which is one of their cult status products.

As you may know, the Lush Halloween collection has been released this week so I just had to check it out. They have brought back classics like the Lord of Misrule Bath Bomb and Shower Gel, plus the Sparkly Pumpkin but the new additions also looked amazing. Boo Bath Melt, Autumn Leaf Bath Bomb, Pumpkin Bath Bomb and Monster's Ball seemed to be very popular with the other bloggers, I'm a sucker for anything novelty. The range also included two soaps, Fireside and Magic Wand, plus a cute Shimmer Bar called Goth Fairy.

Finally, we visited the Lush Spa upstairs, I'd been dying to see what the treatment rooms were like and what type of spa treatments they offered. The Spa is styled like an old English cottage, making it very inviting. The staff talked us through the rooms and what the treatments were inspired by. I really want to book a visit in, they all sound amazing.

I had such a lovely time at the Lush Liverpool Blogger Event. Make sure you pay them a visit while in Liverpool.

Using Aloe Vera in your Skincare Routine

I've never been one to check the ingredients list of a beauty product, but while trying to tackle acne and sore skin, I started to research further into what natural ingredients are good for the skin. I found the aloe vera cropped up in articles claiming to fix most skincare compliants.

"Aloe vera gel contains two hormones: Auxin and Gibberellins. These two hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation. Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells." - mindbodygreen.com

SUNBURN

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You will almost always find aloe vera in after sun products as it soothes and cools instantly. The Dr Organic Aloe Vera Gel or Body Butter would be ideal to pack when planning a break in the sun.

DE-PUFFING

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Again, the cooling sensation that aloe vera has makes it ideal to de-puff tired eyes. Tap the Dr Organic Eye Gel around the orbial bone gentley to awaken the eyes in the morning.

CLEANSING

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Aloe vera is ideal for cleansing as it's very refreshing and smells amazing. The Dr Organic Face Wipes are perfect for when you are in a hurry and the body wash provides a clean but moisturised feel.

CHAPPED SKIN

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Aloe vera is well known for it's healing properties, making an aloe vera lip balm the best way to heal Autumn and Winter chapped lips. You could also use this on chapped skin like elbows too.

The Dr Organic Aloe Vera range is available at Holland and Barrett. Do you use aloe vera in your skincare routine?

*This post contains PR samples

Clarins Must Haves and FEED 10 Charity Gift with Purchase

Well knowledgeable and passionate counter managers and staff are worth their weight in gold, Stephanie from the Chester Clarins counter in Debenhams is one of those people. A few days a go we sat downstairs in the quaint Tea Press café and nattered about the latest must have products.

Playing with and testing with the latest releases, Stephanie explained with important ingredients and the concepts behind the products.

First up was the Extra Firming Mask, this lilac coloured cream works to soft and smooth fine lines in just 10 minutes. It felt very luxurious on the skin making it ideal for more mature skin. The Super Restorative Replenishing Comfort Mask is also excellent for drier, mature skin.

I was also introduced into two of their most popular masks, the Truly Matte Pure and Radiant Mask and the Hydra-Quench Cream Mask. The Truly Matte is ideal for my acne prone skin, and the Hydra-Quench is perfect for those with very dehydrated skin.

The next trio of products are called the Boosters, helping to amp up your skincare and customise it to suit your needs at the time. The options are Energy, to perk up dull and tired skin, Repair, to soothe and heal and Detox, to purify and renew troublesome skin. You simply add a few drops into your normal moisturiser to customise it.

Lastly, Stephanie informed me about Clarins’ work with FEED who work to provide meals to school children in third world countries. Clarins are offering each customer, who buys two Clarins products, a gift cosmetic bag filled with their hero products. Each one will equal 10 nutritious meals through the charity. So you can give back by shopping! The charity FEED 10 bag available until the 1^st of October 2016. There are generous samples of the Moisture Rich Body Lotion, Relax Bath and Shower Concentrate, Gentle Refiner, Hydra-Quench Cream Mask and the Hand and Nail Treatment Cream.

What Clarins hero products do you use?

Autumn Wishlist

I haven't created a wishlist in months and thought the change of season would be the perfect time to invest in some pieces that will help me transition into Autumn.

ChloBo Luna Soul Rose Gold Star Necklace
I usually don't wear much jewellery but when I saw this rose gold star necklace, I knew I needed it. Love at first sight!

Kat Von D Liquid Lipstick in Outlaw
I've already fallen in love with the Kat Von D liquid lipstick formula after my sister brought me two shades back from Las Vegas. You just slick on a thin layer and it lasts all day, even through most food and drinks. I love this classic red shade, I think it would be perfect to brighten up dull Autumn days!

L'Occitane Ambre Eau de Parfum
In Autumn, I like to change my fragrances up to something more warming. This Amber and Vanilla perfume from L'Occitane fragrances sounds amazing.

Topshop Blossom Embroidered Boots
When I want to mix up my monochrome outfits, I would reach for a pair of statement boots like this. Miss Selfridge and ASOS also have similar styles, so shop around for an embroidered pair of boots to suit your budget.

New Look Embroidered Across Body Bag
I saw this embroidered number in a haul by Lily Melrose and fell in love with it instantly! It's the perfect piece to add to your wardrobe to incorporate the embroidery trend without breaking the bank.

What's on your Autumn wishlist?

*Sponsored post