The New Morning Routine

It is insanely hard trying to find the right skincare routine. Every brand now offers copious amounts of moisturisers, serums, eye creams and it's pretty daunting on knowing where to start, never mind what will actually work for you. My first piece of advice is to actually listen to your skin and work out what it needs. From working on a counter I know first hand that every claims to be either 'oily' or 'dry', are you really though? If you would like a break-down of skin types then please let me know, this may help a lot of people out there who aren't entirely sure. I personally am mostly normal but occasionally dehydrated - not dry, dehydrated. What I have found is that I was applying far too much onto my skin that not only took forever in the morning, it really wasn't working for me and was actually making my skin work. I have now stripped everything back and have quite a basic routine.

First up, cleanse. I prefer a balm/ cleansing oil type for this and do use different ones day and night. For the morning I love to use Clinique 'Take the Day Off' Balm which I have used for almost a year now, this is my third tub - love the stuff! This could be used at night as it also removes makeup, but I like the feel for the morning to wipe off any excess dirt and oils from the previous nights sleep. To apply, take a small blob, rub into face - including eye area, take a flannel or muslin cloth and wash off. 

I then move onto a face wash. Clarins Wake-Up Booster is what I have been using recently, would I say it's wow factor? No, but it is nice enough and refreshing for the morning. This too is a cleansing wash and could be used as first in your routine. I am not a fan of foaming face washes, each to their own but wouldn't recommend. Personally, they strip my skin and I believe that's what caused the change in my skin in the first place! This says on the website 'foaming' but it's definitely not, it has a gel consistency which I just pop onto my hands, rub into skin and again remove with flannel.

Where I used to tone, I no longer do. I honestly feel like toner is just flavoured water and does nothing for the skin. I use a Clarins one at night after my make-up remover to take off any remaining makeup that may still be hanging about, and that is it! Instead, I go pop on a pump of Clarins Cleansing Milk, the salon sizes are absolutely amazing value and has lasted me a whole year! One pump, and apply to the face and I just leave it, you can also tissue off but I love the extra hydration. I have used this product consistently for over a year now and won't remove it from my routine. Ever. 

Now that the face is thoroughly washed and cleansed I move onto the good stuff. First up eye cream. How many of us apply serum and/or moisturiser first? The reason for applying eye cream first is due to it being the thinnest layer of skin and so applying any products first creates a barrier, which makes it harder to get to the source. This will also make a heavier moisturiser and could cause puffiness. Moral of the story? Apply eye cream first! I love Benefit's It's Potent Eye Cream. It contains Burnett, a Chinese remedy, which helps with smoothing out any unwanted lines and wrinkles and also Cocoa Extract to counteract against darkness - exactly what I need! 

Then to serum, Serum is so incredibly important and I feel everyone really should invest in one. This is the only skin we get so please respect it! I was using Benefit's which I do love but have recently moved onto Clarins Double Serum for daytime. I do like it, it leaves my skin feeling refreshed, plumped and smells gorgeous but I have found that it runs out really quickly and I only use one pump of it in the morning. Not impressed with that considering the price tag! I haven't yet found my perfect serum so any recommendations are welcome. 

Then last but certainly not least I apply moisturiser and my choice goes to Clinique Moisture Surge Intense. I cannot recommend this moisturiser enough to anyone who suffers from dry and/or dehydrated skin. This is what I believe to have seriously helped in taking away that tightness to my skin. It contains Olive Extract which allows the skin to retain moisture making it much healthier! Especially good during the colder months when our skin needs extra moisture!

There we have it, my morning routine! It may seems loads to other people but it's really not, it takes me 10 minutes tops and it is so, unbelievably important to not only have a skincare routine but to get the right one for you! We have all wasted money on products that have sat in our drawers so please get a sample first. 

Are you a fan of any of the above products?

- Lori x

New Release: Benefit Puff Off!

Puff Off £22.50 (here)

Today I come to you with a brand new release due to launch on Saturday 31st of January - or can be found online now - and it comes in the form of Puff Off - not to be confused with an insult! Puff Off is an under-eye gel which helps with puffiness and/or darkness around the eye. To me, it is almost a skincare/ makeup hybrid and can be applied over or under makeup (I've tried both). My personal preference is actually before as it's gel formula makes it feel almost like a primer and allows any concealer to sit beautifully throughout the day.

Firstly, lets all take a second to (once again) congratulate Benefit on their innovative packaging. If ever there was a prize for cutest products , Benefit would win it with no fear of competition. The biggest selling point for this new launch is it's iron-shaped tip, exclusive to Benefit. It is the perfect size and shape to get right into the corner of your eye and allows you to smooth out any unwanted fine lines there too! Not only the size and shape but it is absolutely freezing cold which is ideal to blast away those puffies! For extra effect, pop it into the fridge at night.

It comes out in a translucent peach tone which is suitable for all skin tones. You just smooth the product under the eye area (first few times I used it I squeezed far too much - we will all learn!) and pat in any excess with my ring finger. It also allows light reflecting particles to shine through and give an instant lift, so for any of you sufferers of dark circles (like me) then this gives you that illusion of a full nights sleep!

This has been a welcome edition to my routine, it's cooling iron tip is very enjoyable to my grumpy eyes in the morning. As previously stated, I love to apply this just before my makeup, but if you feel you need a perk up throughout the day then certainly pop some above makeup for an instant lift!

Will you be trying Puff Off?

- Lori x

#BrowGame

Benefit High Brow // Gimme Brow // Browzings 'Light'

I get asked nearly everyday how I do my brows. It's only over the last few months that they have really came into their own and I am finally happy with their shape and width. Brows are an extremely important part to the face - well, my face anyway. The add instant shape to my overall face-shape adding a defined brow can give and instant eye and cheek lift as well as slim the nose. Benefit, for me, are completely on point when it comes to brow products, I mean, they are number one. Through lots of trial and error, I've finally found three products which work as the perfect trio to bring my #BrowGame.

First off, I apply 'Gimme Brow' to my eyebrows. This tiny bottle is my saviour. The fibres of the brush latch onto the hair you have already and add volume and shape to your brow, as well as a little colour. I can see why it is loved by many a Granny. Everyone is now after fuller, thicker looking brows a-la Cara Delevingne. However, back in the day, everyone had over-plucked, thin lines (we've all been there!). This is perfect for those of you looking for something quick and effortless in the morning, a very natural brow. For me, there isn't enough definition and anytime I try to leave it just there, I always find i'm reaching for my 'BrowZings' kit within 10 minutes.

Ah, my good friend 'BrowZings'. These kits are the business - seriously! I've had mine since last September and you can see from the photo above that it looks hardly touched. Trust me when I say it has, I use it everyday! I switch between the Light and Medium palette, depending on how dark/light my hair looks and how defined I want them. Using a hard angle brush, I tap a little of the wax then powder and apply this on top of the 'Gimme Brow' from the high arch point. I try to leave the start of the brow with as little product as possible to give a gradient/ natural effect. I usually elongate the end and have my finishing point at the edge of my eye. I find that is you use this above the 'Gimme Brow' you use less product and avoid any form of Scouse Brows - Not. A. Good. Look. Ladies.

To finish off I use my favourite and completely underrated 'High Brow'. A bright white pencil that I apply under the arch to really exaggerate my arch. I wasn't blessed with high-rising brows so mine have to be make-shift. A white eye-shadow or a lighter shade of concealer can both work just as well, I personally just love this pencil and don't feel my brows are complete without it. You can also use this in your tear-ducts to create brighter, whiter eyes!

So there we have it - the secret to my brows! Are you a fan of any of these products? Or are there any others you would recommend?

Lori x

Skincare Routine | Serums

Benefit Instant Comeback Serum // The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum and Oil

We have all heard of serums. Almost every brand, if not all, have one but how many of us actually understand them and their purpose? Probably not a lot! Serum helps to preserve your youthful skin and works from the inside out. It acts as a booster to the rest of your skincare routine i.e applying this before moisturiser, eye cream etc helps them to really lock in and work their magic. To some, it may not seem like such an important step but ever since I started using serum it has made such a difference to my skin. It looks fuller, healthier and is the best my skin has ever looked. Most serums come in at ridiculous prices ranging from £70 up. The two of my preferred products both come in under the price of one. Here are the two which I use personally and have done religiously for the last however many months. I find that these two work best for me and I finally feel I have used them long enough to give you all an honest report.

Morning - Benefit Instant Comback Serum £36

I look for an instant boost in the morning, something to help waken up my tired skin. Benefit's Instant Comeback Serum works wonders for me. Not only does the fresh cucumber scent give a burst of energy it also provides an instant radiance and glow. Containing the infamous Tri-Radiance Complex (exclusive to Benefit) it helps to lock in the moisture. This is also deemed as an anti-aging product, which I have to admit, isn't exactly what I'm looking for (I am 21 afterall) however, for any older ladies interested in investing this helps to soothe, smooth and firm the skin to hide any visible lines. Two pumps of this is more than enough and I most certainly have noticed a huge difference to my skin. 

Evening - The Body Shop Overnight Serum and Oil £12:

Applying oil to my skin has never been appealing to me. I can imagine the horror to those of you who suffer a shiny complexion. However, it is so quick absorbing and non-gready that there really is no fear. This is 8 hours sleep in a bottle. My skin looks much fresher and plumper in the morning. I always notice a huge difference when I don't apply it! Skin looks recharged and well rested. I also love the dropper applicator, one is more than enough for me, maybe two if I was feeling adventurous. I rub into my fingers then onto the face and down the neck. This makes make-up application for the next day much easier. It applies more evenly and gives a gorgeous finish. The only problem is that it is slightly fragranced which some may not like. It doesn't break me out and I haven't personally had any problems with that but be sure to test it out first. I don't think I could recommend this serum anymore if I tried.

I now wouldn't go without a serum. They have completely changed the way my skin looks and I feel such a difference if they aren't applied. They are definitely an investment but these are two of the best products and prices out there!

Lori x

Weekly Loves #10

Mac Concealer Palette Light // Lush Toner Water // Benefit Porefessional

Why Hello strangers! Sorry it has been a while but I've been having a bit of a blogging/ internet cleanse over the last few weeks. After an amazing holiday to Barcelona and the Benicassim Festival, I enjoyed having a complete internet free holiday that much I decided to extend it for a little while on returning home. Alongside that, I've also started a brand new job where I now in management and so comes a lot more responsibility. I wanted to give myself a few weeks to settle in and let my lovely little blog take a back seat. So, apologies for the break but I am back and ready to bring you lots of new fun posts!

Starting with my weekly favourites and this week brings some new loves to the table.  First off comes from Mac and it is their Pro Concealer Palette in the shade Light (obviously). I've been meaning to buy this for ages but cannot stand the customer service (or lack of) in the Glasgow store and wasn't sure if it would be too dark. Thankfully, when in London I popped into the boutique and the staff couldn't have been any nicer. The palette is absolutely fantastic and has everything you need for correcting and concealing. I have been used the salmon colour with NW 15 for under the eyes. The yellow for highlighting and lately i've been playing with the darker shades to work as a contour - jury's still out on that one!

With all the changes going on in my life at the moment, sleeping has been pretty non-existent. From time to time I can suffer from insomnia (if you have you will know how horrific it is!) and when my Mum and Dad returned home from their jet-setting holidays they brought back a little lavender pillow parcel to help you drift off. I found this to be immensely helpful in the old shut-eye department and decided to hunt down a pillow spray. Now I know some may think it weird as this product is technically a toner for your skin however, the rose and lavender infused scent really helps me to drift off. Have only used this a handful of times but I have to say it has been making a difference. Just a few spritz on my pillow and job done!

Lastly, I have recently found myself getting right back into using primer. I am one of the fortunate people to have relatively normal skin. Primer for me was always an unnecessary step added to my make-up routine. After rummaging around my drawers I found this deluxe sample of The Porefessional and decided to really put it to the test. Turning my No.7 mirror to the 5X zoom (scary! eek!) I popped the product over my T-Zone and watched my pores disappear! This has now became a staple in the morning and makes my make-up not only sit better, but lasts all day!

Thank you all for sticking around! I know I've been gone a little while but I'm definitely back.

Lori x

Weekly Loves #9

Benefit Dream Screen // Estee Lauder BB Cream //
Mac Cremesheen Glass 'On The Scene'

I was incredibly lucky with my days off last week. I managed to see the sunniest day of the week, Tuesday, and sat out the back catching some rays. Not for too long though as my pale skin can't take the heat! With the sun finally making an appearance, it was time to pull out some sun-protecting products.

I have been dying to try out Benefit's 'Dream Screen' since I was fortunate enough to get my hands on one. I haven't wanted to waste it though as my daily moisturiser and most of my day-wear foundations have SPF in them already, don't want to go onto overload! After reading many great reviews I was hoping this wouldn't let me down and it hasn't! SPF 45++ keeps you highly protected, a matte finish which makes it perfect for applying over or under makeup - Perfect for you oilier skinned ladies. . I love this especially as it doesn't have that horrible thick feeling most suncreams do. Oil and fragrance free, everyones a winner. Plus, the packaging is just the cutest, who wouldn't want to show this off!

I have been loving wearing the Estee Lauder Double Wear BB Cream for a lighter base in the hotter weather. Yes, I included this a few weeks ago, but I seriously can't get enough! I have averted applying powder on top this week and have been seriously loving the gorgeous glow it is giving my skin. SPF 30 which is perfect for my holidays - next week, eek! - and super lightweight on the skin. For anyone looking for a healthy glow this summer, you have got to try this!

My makeup has been incredibly understated this week, less is more and all that. So a nude, glossy lip has been my go-to look. Not a known lover of lipgloss, I am doing a complete 180 and using it most days. I have been wearing Mac 'On the Scene' for a natural pinky lip colour with some added shine! I love the vanilla scents of Mac products, one of my favourites, and also the packaging on these glosses is so beautiful. Lipglass might not be for everyone as it can be quite thick and sticky however, it does last on the lips.This was part of their limited edition Christmas sets, not sure if you would still be able to find them - sorry to be that guy!

Have you tried any of these products?

Lori x

Benefit's They're Real Push-Up Liner | Review

They're Real Push-Up Liner* // They're Real Remover*

Everyone and their Granny have been firing up posts about the brand new launch from Benefit Cosmetics. I decided to wait and give this product a fair trial and not give in to the hype. I received my very own liner and remover over a month ago now and, as a liquid wearer myself, was very excited to try this out. Benefit really know how to market products and they have thrown everything at this new launch. After the success of the original member of the family, They're Real Mascara, I could only imagine great things for it's sister.

First off, let's discuss the packaging. I love the fact that they have solved all us gel liner wearer's woes and finally created a travel friendly gel product. Then there is the Acu-Flex tip which is exclusive to the brand, the perfect applicator for those ladies who are not quite liner pros. This took me a good few times and some trial and error to work with, I am so used to a tiny nib that having a flexible tip was just awkward. If you are going to purchase this, be sure to have a practice! Now that i'm used to it, I'm loving the ease and how the product just glides on the lid. The tip hugs and pushes the lashes out of the road to get the gel right into the lashline, no more missed lines - horrah!

My only problem with the genius product? It claims to be smudge proof, however, having slightly oiler lids I do notice a transfer a few hours in. Nothing that can't be solved with a good eye primer and/or powder and really, I can live with that. The formula is thick and dries in pretty quickly so you do need to be a little quick, however it is such a fool-proof product that it's applied at the speed of light. This baby has shed an amazing ten minutes off my current make-up routine, now that is impressive.

The budge proof part? You are correct, it does not move. Even after a bath, now that really is some stubborn product! Benefit have finally solved the much noised complaint from the original mascara, and created the Remover to go alongside the family. An oil-free fragrance free remover that is ideal for those of us with sensitive eyes. You lather the balm into your lids and rinse with water. I think this is a fantastic remover, not what I was expecting at all. A whopping 50ml and a squeezey, travel friendly tube - no more unhygienic tubs. 

Overall, I do really like the product and love the fact it is now practical to carry around a gel liner. The remover is also a winner and you could double it up as a cleanser all over due to its slightly thick, balm-like texture.

Will you be trying the They're Real Liner?

Lori x

Weekly Loves #8

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator // Kate Moss '22' //

They're Real Liner*

I love looking back over the previous week and rounding up my favourite products from the last seven days. My skin is very up and down at the moment so my base make-up menu has pretty much stayed the same, so I've been looking to other avenues to change it up.

Does anyone else's skin break out just before an event or holiday? It's like my face goes 'Yeah. you can have nice skin all the time. What's that? Your holidays in a few weeks? Here's a spot'. When this does happen I tend to up the anti with exfoliating. It took me a while to find the right exfoliator for my skin, using very harsh ones that stripped my face until I eventually found Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. This is exactly as it says, a gentle exfoliator. The beads are so soft it hardly feels like an exfoliator at all. I also love the orange extract scent (any surprise?), so refreshing to use in the morning. This is only the travel size - brilliant size, I know - however, I'm beginning to run low so will be taking a quick trip to Clarins to purchase the full size.

I haven't worn a red lip in months. I wore one religiously for ages and then seemed to turn to lighter shades of coral and pink. However, over the last week I have been loving the Kate Moss for Rimmel in shade 22. A gorgeous pinky red colour that goes to a matte formula, whilst still adding a hint of shine. I do prefer a matte lip as I find them to last longer and this certainly does the trick. I only topped this up once after lunch and it lasted the full day. Must admit, I never tend to wear a lip liner, I just find it an unnecessary step and had no problems with bleeding. Think I'll need to have a rummage at some of the other shades in this range as I really enjoy the formula.

Last up for this weeks round up comes from Benefit Cosmetics and their much anticipated new release; They're Real Push Up Gel Liner. I will be popping up a full review of this during the week so don't want to go into too much detail but I have been loving this little pen. It does take a few goes of getting used to but after that, it whacks off around ten minutes of my makeup routine. Anything that can do that is a winner in my eyes.

Are you a lover of any of these products?

Lori x

Weekly Loves #4

Benefit Gimme Brow // Mac Pro-Longwear Concealer //
Origins Charcoal Mask

Another week has come and passed, and now we find ourselves into June! Half way through the year and I honestly couldn't tell you where it has went. This last week has been incredibly busy for myself with birthday, events, balls and work, Lord knows how I got through! Thank goodness I'm now off work for a whopping ten days - well deserved I would say!

This week has been quite a lazy one on the make-up front. As I mentioned recently, my skin has been pretty dry and dehydrated in certain areas so I've been trying to wear less make-up and drink plenty of water - both seem to be really helping. One of the things I've cut half the time down on is my eyebrows. Usually I wear wax and powder to give me that definition on the brows however, that always takes a bit of time to get them looking nice and even. This week I've been reaching only for my Gimme Brow by Benefit. A quick swipe through the brows to add a little volume a colour - Voila! Done.

My trusted Nars Creamy Concealer has finally gave up, it was an incredibly sad affair! A while back I had purchased Mac pro-longwear concealer and never got around to using it as I just couldn't part ways with my Nars. This week, after Nars untimely passing, I pulled out this new one and so far I am loving it. Is it better than my Nars? The jury is still out, but it's certainly leaving me satisfied with covering those pesky dark circles! 

I've became quite the face mask junkie over the last few weeks. I do have a mask that I use once a week, just for, although I don't ever get wowed with it and think it does much for my complexion. Last time I was at Origins and buying some of my products, I got a 4 pack trial of the charcoal mask. Last week, when my skin was being a pest, I pulled this out from the back of my drawer and I was completely converted to masks! Although it looks like I've stuck my face in a pile of cement, it certainly doesn't feel that way. It doesn't leave my skin feeling stripped or dried out, it gives my skin a refresher and new lease of life. Think I will need to head back to the counter and purchase the full size.

Are you a fan of any of these?

Lori x

Weekly Loves #2

Naked 3 Palette / Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet /
Benefit Cream Shadow R.S.V.P / Benefit Coralista Blusher

As I stated last week, this is a new style post I will be incorporating into my blog weekly. Just a round up of all of my most used and loved products of the week. What I have been loving and some mini reviews! So let me share with you my favourites from this week.

Since the sunshine has finally decided to make an appearance, hurray! I decided to start wearing some brighter and lighter eye make-up. So out came my Naked 3 palette to play! I love my Naked 2 palette, it is possibly my favourite from the range but it's very dark, cold colours and not very wearable for everyday use in the Summer. I have been loving mixing up the matte and shimmery shades and creating lots of different eye looks. The rose gold shades work perfectly with my pale skin. Let's be honest, we all know the Urban Decay create the best palettes, their shadows are so soft and easy to blend. They are every palette lovers dream!

For days when I am looking for something quick to swipe on the lids, or even when I'm looking for a light base for my shadows, I have been reaching for Benefit's R.S.V.P Cream Shadow. The light pink shade is perfect for a light base. These shadows are so creamy making them so easy to apply and blend together, plus the fact they are creaseless - perfection! Much better than the MAC paint pots - in my opinion! This is such an easy to wear shade, nice and subtle for everyday wear.

Hold the phone - I may have found the perfect lip product ever! Yes, yes I know, I may be a little late on this wagon however, the Bourjois Velvet Lipsticks are uh-mazing! The only lip product I own (and I own a lot) to stand the test of time against eating and drinking all day long. I will be popping up a full review on these bad boys in the next few days! The colour i've been wearing the most is 04 Peach Club - a gorgeous peach shade, perfect for spring/summer.

Last of my weekly faves this week comes from Benefit again and it is in the form of blush, my ultimate favourite, Coralista! This is my summer cheek shade. The perfect coral, peach blush with some shimmer through it to add a gorgeous highlight. I honestly thought I would hate this shade against my pale skin but in fact, I find it very warm on my skin adding some much needed colour and lift! Some may find this a little too shimmery for their liking but being a highlighter queen myself, it's perfection in a box!


Do you love any of these products?

Lori x

The Re-Purchase Test

Ghost Deep Night Perfume // Benefit High Beam //

Origins GinZing Moisturiser // Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

How many of us use up a full product and then go and repurchase it? Let's be honest, I know I'm guilty of thinking 'maybe I should try something else, it might be better'. Who's with me? However, in amoungst thinking of all the products I might be missing out on there are some products that just work. Things that you know you can't cope without, and when they are coming to an end you feel like your world is ending... Just me? Today I bring you The RePurchase Test, things that can't be replaced, only rebought!

Let's start with my signature scent: Ghost Deep Night. I have worn this perfume since I was about 14. Anyone who knows me can confirm. It's a gorgeous floral and fruity perfume without being overly sweet. A beautiful blend of vanilla (my absolute favourite), apricot and peach, not too over-powering making it perfect for everyday. I honestly couldn't count the amount of bottles of this perfume I have went through.

Another staple in my drawer comes from Benefit and can be the one and only High Beam. No matter how many highlighters I try, nothing will compare to my beloved High Beam. This was one of the, if not the first Benefit product I got and it is one of the only products that will be a constant in my make-up bag. Incredibly illuminating and perfect for my pale, translucent skin. Don't get me wrong, this may be a little too 'white' for people with more sallow/ tanned skin tones and may prefer Sun Beam instead. However, this is gorgeous multi-purpose product whether you want to use it one the highest points of the cheek bones, the bridge of the nose, on the lids to brighten the eye area, this product will not let you down! 

Moving on from my two greatest love stories throughout the years, comes my most recent affairs. Origins GinZing Moisturiser. I know, I know, i'm mentioning this again but this really is amazing stuff. I love it that much I have now just purchased my second tub, a first for myself and moisturisers. This means business! To hear more than jump over and read my full review (here).

Last, but certainly not least, is the Clarins Beauty Flash Balm. This cult favourite was first purchased last year after reading Anna's review of it (I swear that girl could make me buy thin air). Having never failed on a recommendation before I took the plunge and have never looked back. This takes dull skin and turns it into the brightest, healthiest glow ever. I use this as a primer and/or mix it in with my foundation and it works absolute wonders. Late nights? Let me be havin' ya! I am now onto my second bottle of this lovely and doubt I'll ever switch from it. You can catch my full review of this product (here). 

What makes your repurchase list?

Lori x

Weekly | What I'm Loving

Bobbi Brown Foundation // Benefit Hoola Bronzer //

Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask

I have been swithering over adding a new section to my blog for a while and have finally made my decision - it is happening! As of this week I am going to start doing a round up of what products I have been loving and using the most. Little mini reviews and reasons to why I have been loving them. I personally love reading these type of posts as it gives me an insight into 1. the blogger and 2. products I may be interested in. So let me show you what I have been loving this week.

If you watched my April Favourites video (here) then you would have heard me talking about Benefit's Hoola Bronzer. Bronzer has never been a product I have used, in fact, whenever anyone ever mentioned bronzer I ran to the hills! This may seem hard to believe but I actually enjoy being pale and I hate counters trying to 'give me a bit of colour' by colour matching me to and way too dark foundation or putting on so much bronzer I need a chisel to take it off. However, over the last month, with it coming up to summer, I've decided to start playing around a bit more with the product I once thought of as the devil! Hoola seems to be the one that works best for me, with no under tones and/or glitter it doesn't highlight the fact that I am wearing any and it doesn't make me look dirty! 

Do you ever notice that all of your make-up seems to run out at once? Firstly my Bobbi Brown Corrector, then Nars concealer, my Maybelline mascara went next quickly followed by YSL Foundation! Let's just say I've been having a nightmare! On YSL spitting out it's last few ounces I decided to rummage through my stash and found an old favourite of mine - Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation. Why I stopped using this I will never know?! It is the perfect match for my skin tone - 00 Alabaster - although, this one is also on it's last legs and on looking on the website it seems they have discontinued this colour? Somebody please tell me this is a lie! Such a lightweight feel yet a medium, dewy finish. Enough glow in there for that healthy skin finish, yet not shiny enough to look like you are wearing make-up. A re-discovered favourite.

After scraping the remnants out of my sample size I finally ran to my nearest Origins counter and picked up the full size of the Drink Up Intensive Overnight mask. This stuff is my skin saviour! Pop this on once or twice a week (depending on how dry your skin in) and allow this gorgeous avocado scented mask to work it's magic! On applying this you don't need to do your full routine as this does everything you need and you wake with your skin looking more plump and feeling refreshed and replenished. This is a must have for everyone! 

What do we think of this style of post?

Lori x

Dry and Dehydrated Skin | Skincare Series

For the next installment of my skincare series I am going to look into dry and dehydrated skin. Over the last few weeks my skin has taken a severe turn for the worst. I'm not entirely sure of the cause of it whether it is to do with the constant changing of weather, the air conditioning in my work or maybe just my skin is changing in general. Either way, my skin has started to become more dry and dehydrated. I have never suffered from dry skin before and took time to look into products I felt would help combat against this. Into my lovely stash I went.

I started using the Clarins HydraQuench Cream when my skin was at it's complete worse. May I also state I was suffering a severe cold and had been constantly blowing my nose so that area was particularly sensitive and flaky. This bad boy was an absolute saviour! Applying morning and night to my face and focusing a lot on my sensitive, poor nose this cleared up the flaking in no time and helped to keep my skin feeling much more hydrated. 

Another amazing product to help my poor, sore skin was the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask - what a mouthful! This only needs applied once a week, twice if your skin is particularly dry. I apply this about twenty minutes before I go to sleep to allow it to dry in a little and when I wake in the morning my skin looks much more plump and feels so much smoother and hydrated. This is honestly one of the best products I have ever used and would completely recommend it to anyone! As with all Origins products this smells insane! I actually can't wait to use it each week because it leaves my skin feeling amazing. *Please note this isn't included in the photo as I've ran out and need a new one!*

When suffering from dehydrated skin I opt for a thicker, heavier moisturiser to really soak into the skin and work it's magic. On these occasions I reach for Benefit's Total Moisture Facial Cream. Super thick in consistency so a tiny amount is needed to spread over the whole face. The packaging is huge so it will last you a very long time! The fresh cucumbers smell is absolutely delicious and refreshing. It definitely leaves my skin feeling more comfortable and less aggravated, Soothing it from its dehydrated state. It doesn't leave any oily residue and when foundation is applied on top, the foundation doesn't cling to any dry patches which you sometimes find on drier areas. A winner in my eyes. I have been using the travel size lately as I have been jetsetting throughout March and it has been absolutely perfect to pop in my travel bag!

For anyone looking for a good moisturiser but are on a budget and/or don't want to spend over the odds for one then the Nivea Refreshing Soft Moisturising Cream is an absolute dream! It comes in a huge amount of 200ml, it contains Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E making it super gorgeous to apply. I wouldn't say it has the nicest scent in the world, not compared to my Origins moisturiser, but it certainly does the job! Plus with the under a fiver price tag, you can't really go wrong!

These are just some of the products I head for when my skin is feeling dry and dehydrated. What works for me may not work for you, everyone knows their own skin the best. 

What products would you recommend for dry/dehydrated skin?

Lori x

March Favourites | Video

MARCH FAVOURITES VIDEO HERE

One of my favourite posts to write has to be my monthly favourites. I love sharing with you all of the products I have been loving over the last month. As we head into April I have lots of lovely products to share with you from the month of March. This month, I decided to change it up a little and pop my favorites post into a video for you all to watch! I started up my new YouTube channel a few weeks ago and would love you all to pop over and subscribe to keep up-to-date!

Lori x

Benefit The Big Easy | Review

Benefit 'The Big Easy' £27.50

Yet another Benefit product has graced us this March (well, technically it launches in April but lets not be pedantic) and it comes in the form of 'The Big Easy'. The product claims to be 'Bigger than a BB Cream' which I have to give it to them, they certainly pulled this one out of the bag. Coming in six different shades, the first of them being 'Fair' which is two shades lighter than the 'Hello Flawless' range. Genuinely think I whooped when I discovered this! So for all those pale and interesting girls like myself, this is the perfect shade for you. The product states it will balance moisture and control shine which I can definitely see on application - certainly one to think about if you are from the oily skin family. It reduces the appearance of pores and shine as well as covering any redness on the face, all the while balancing out your skin tone. The liquid formula turns to powder on application, leaving your skin with a silky lightweight feel and an uber matte finish. It does give a light coverage, considerably more than I have found with any other BB cream, but can be built to medium if you so desire. Once I have applied this - if I am on a low-key makeup day - I just apply a little concealer around the areas it is needed and voila! Done. No need to set with powder, this bad boy does all the work for you.

I personally don't feel there is enough coverage for me for an everyday basis, I'm definitely a medium/full coverage type gal. The lights in my work are so bright and harsh I feel the need to wear a little more than I would on a day off. However, I have been applying The Big Easy as a primer and I have to say it is doing the trick! I used it originally after my primer decided enough was enough and she couldn't give anymore, thinking it could do no harm as it has a primer-type feel to it anyway. The cream gave me a beautiful flawless finish and shone through my foundation giving a 'lit from within' type glow. The amount of compliments I have received on the days I have been wearing it underneath is unbelievable so it is definitely doing something right. This will be the perfect product for summertime, especially when you are off on your holidays. Containing an SPF of 35, one of the highest I've seen on the market, it has you covered on your sun protection too! I hardly wear any makeup whilst I'm away however, at night when I am looking for a little something to perk me up I'll be throwing this on!

The Pros? The lightweight texture, the fact that they have expanded the shade range to even lighter, the high SPF, controlling shine and evening out your skin tone. The Cons? Although they have gone two shades lighter than the Hello Flawless range (which is great for me) the darker shade range is severely lacking - hopefully Benefit will expand the range for those of you with sallow skin. I have also noticed that it can cling to slightly drier patches if I don't moisturise thoroughly beforehand. Benefit do recommend moisturising prior to application and you can see why, after that though it does glide onto the skin. So if you do suffer from an extremely dry mug then this product maybe isn't the one for you! 

The Big Easy officially launches on Saturday 28th March and retails at £27.50. The bottle gives 35ml which is 5ml more than the Hello Flawless foundation so I do think this is a reasonable price, considering how long the foundation lasts! All in all, I do like the Big Easy, especially as a base for my makeup.

Will you be tempted to try The Big Easy?

Lori x

Video: Glamorous Red Lips

Tutorial Here

This weeks video is a makeup tutorial for pale skin and bold lips! Being a pale girl myself, it is quite hard finding pale YouTubers to grace us with lots of pale inspired makeup looks. There are loads of beauty gurus and their makeup tutorials are so inspiring and beautiful but for a lot of the tutorials I know I could never pull off with my skintone. I wasn't planning on doing tutorials at all to be honest, but after posting the above photo on Instagram (here) and lots of people commenting on how much the liked the look and asking if you would all like a tutorial I felt obliged! Make sure you check out my video and subscribe to my channel if you enjoy it!

If you would like to see some more tutorials like this on my channel then please let me know, or if there is anything else you would quite like to see please feel free to leave a comment!

Lori x

Benefit Gimme Brow | Review

Benefit Gimme Brow £17.50*

We all have those teenage girl make-up regrets. Thing that we wish we could only go back to our younger selves and scream 'WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!'. Take, for example, that time when I thought that wearing bright green, sparkly eye shadow was acceptable for school/ everyday life, and made me look super cool, when in actual fact, I looked like a really crap pixie. Or when I never knew of such a thing as colour matching. Or blending *shudders*. Lets be honest, we have all been there and all have our own horror stories. The main mistake, one that I believe most of us make in our adolescent years, is that when introduced to a pair of tweezers. Why did we ever think that tweezers and 15 year-old girls were acceptable? Never! I have spent years re-growing and shaping my brows and only now, in the last few months, can I say they are finally getting into a shape and size I deem acceptable. Oh Cara, how you tease me with them big brows of yours!

Along comes the, dare I say, saviour of the brow world. Benefit have just launched yet another new addition to their collection - 'Gimme Brow' (Is it just me or are Benefit churning out new releases left, right and centre these days?). 'Gimme Brow' is a new brow volumizer that latches onto hair to add thickness and colour, giving a natural definition to your brows. I had instant Brow Wow with this product on first application. I love the gel formula, keeping those wispy hairs at bay! The best feature is by far the teeny tiny wand, similar in size to the Clinique bottom lash mascara.. The perfect size for brushing through your brows with such ease and precision, with no worry of the fibres catching onto random pieces of hair. The pigmentation given in this product is far more than was expected. One swipe and I can see instant definition, yet it is buildable if you are looking for more volume and colour. No shimmer to be found in this product unlike that of Mac's, I mean really, who wants glittery brows? Seriously! The only downside, if there is one, is that it is only available in two shade 'Light/ Medium' and 'Medium/ Dark' however, I think that these are both quite versatile shades and will adapt to the individual. 

I will admit, I am still using my BrowZings kit beforehand as I do like my brows to be defined and statement. This is also a requirement for work so 'Gimme Brow' doesn't quite give me what I am after. Having said that, ever since I received this product it has been used everyday and has made its way proudly into my make-up bag - something that usually takes quite a while! If you are looking for something quick and simple, natural and/or some volume in those over-plucked brows then this is certainly the product for you. Coming in at £17.50 this is one of Benefit's cheapest creations and although it may seem steep for a brow product, it is definitely worth the money. I can safely say this will be getting repurchased after my current one runs out. You can all thank me later!

Will you be running to your nearest counter?

Lori x

Benefit Lolli-Tint | Review

Benefit Lolli-Tint 

Since this little beauty made it's way into my make-up bag, it's been pretty difficult not to wear it. Benefit are always on point when it comes to their packaging and advertising new products. The latest instalment to the Cheek/ Lip stains comes in the form of Lolli-tint, a candy orchid shade which promises to be the 'flirtiest flush in a bottle' - The perfect shade for Spring. I have always been a Benetint type of gal, I think it was possibly one of the first high-end products I ever had and has lasted me very well. Like all of the tints, Lolli-tint has fantastic staying power. Not a product you need to worry about fading or disappearing on a night out, which is exactly what we girls are after!

We all know I am a lover of a bold lip, so for me this has been getting worn most days for a statement lip. I have worn it on the cheeks, mostly out of curiosity as I wasn't sure how the lilac toned stain would suit my pale skin, and I was pleasantly surprised! The quick drying formula is no different to the other Benefit tints and requires a fast hand to avoid tribal stripes. For cheeks, I would recommend using the nail polish type applicator, putting some product onto a flat foundation brush and quickly swiping across the cheeks. On the lips, more is definitely better. I love layering this up to give me a strong lilac lip and I have had so many compliments when I have it on. I actually wore this out to lunch the other day and it didn't budge - definitely pasta proof!

The only downside, if I was being really critical, is that the formula is so quick drying and you do need to work instantly to avoid unwanted lines. However, once you have the knack of it, this is a beautiful product for multi-purposes. At £24.50 you really do get so much use out of the product and these bottles last you an absolute lifetime!

Will you be trying Lolli-Tint?

Lori x