Dr. Ceuracle Vegan Active Berry Range

I received these products for free from Picky and Dr. Ceuracle in exchange for my honest review.

Dr. Ceuracle Vegan Active Berry First Essence: it is formulated with encapsulated resveratrol and upcycled berries to improve elasticity and achieve a plump complexion. 

This clear Essence has a low viscosity texture with the encapsulated particles floating inside, evenly distributed.

I apply a moderate amount (around 7 drops) of this Essence onto my clean, damp skin and can immediately feel my skin becoming very soft. 

It is absorbed easily into the skin and leaves it hydrated and glowing, while helping any following products get absorbed more easily as well.

The spheres of encapsulated Berry Active dissolve without leaving any residue on the skin.  It has a mild clean and fruity scent that doesn't linger.

I like that it also contains soothing and moisturising ingredients like Centella Asiatica Extract, Beta Glucan, Ceramide NP and Postbiotics. 

I love the packaging: the glass bottle makes it feel very luxurious, while the lilac colour scheme makes it very aesthetically pleasing. 

Full ingredient list:

Water, glycerin, 1,2-hexanediol, methylpropanediol, glyceret-26, centella asiatica extract, fig extract, kelp extract, eclipta leaf extract, cranberry extract, eclipta extract, neem leaf extract, hydrogenated lecithin, sodium hyaluronate, grape seed oil , olive oil, essential oil of fragrant pelargonium, essential oil of angustifolia lavender, essential oil of Roman chamomile, essential oil of orange, essential oil of Mexican juniper, diglycerin, isononyl isononanoate, octyldodecet-16, carbomer, tromethamine, adenosine, disodium EDTA, fructooligosaccharides, butylene glycol, Guar Gum, Agar, Beta Glucan, Betaine, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Xanthan Gum, Titanium Dioxide, Moringa Seed Oil, Resveratrol, Collagen, Leuconostoc Lactobacillus Fermented Radish Filtrate, Squalane, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Hydroxyacetophenone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol .

Dr. Ceuracle Vegan Active Berry Lifting Cream: it is also designed with encapsulated resveratrol and upcycled berries to improve elasticity and plump the complexion. 

This anti-ageing moisturiser has a lightweight gel-cream consistency and it is easy to apply onto the skin. I use it as the last step in my routine to lock in hydration. It effectively moisturises and in the morning my skin looks plump and feels so soft and supple, even without any previous exfoliation. 

It has a light, fruity scent that compared to the Essence, is a bit stronger and sweeter, however, it's not overpowering and does not linger. 

The only thing I didn't like about this cream is that the capsules are quite hard to dissolve when applying and I've found them all over my face after I have finished my routine, which is not ideal. Massaging the cream is not enough and sometimes the capsules will not burst even when pressed between 2 fingers, which is disappointing given how easily they dissolve when using the Essence. 

Full ingredient list: 

Purified water, propanediol, glycerin, cyclohexasiloxane, 1,2-hexanediol, betaine, polyglycerin-3, hydrogenated poly(C6-14 olefin), isonylisononanoate, dika Prilyl carbonate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, polyglyceryl-10 stearate, hydrogenated polydecene, kelp extract, nasturtium leaf extract, cranberry extract (230ppm), nasturtium extract, indian mulberry leaf extract , Grapeseed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Olive Oil, Scented Geranium Flower Oil, Lavender Oil, Chamomile Flower Oil, Orange Peel Oil, Mexican Juniper Oil, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vpico Polymer, C14-22 alcohol, vinyl dimethicone, dimethicone, C12-20 alkyl glucoside, acrylate/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, tromethamine, polyquaternium-51, disodium EDTA , adenosine, fructooligosaccharides, butylene glycol, guar gum, agar, beta-glucan, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, glucose, vegetable squalane, xanthan gum, titanium dioxide, collagen, drumstick seed oil , Leuconostoc root fermented filtrate, resveratrol, ceramide NP, triethoxycaprylylsilane, aluminum hydroxide, ethylhexylglycerin, caprylyl glycol.

I really enjoyed using both products and how plump, hydrated, soft and supple they made my skin feel.  

Have you tried any Dr. Ceuracle skincare products?

xo

Revolution 5D Whip Lift Mascara

Revolution & Superdrug kindly sent me the 5D Whip Lift Mascara to test and review. This Mascara is designed to provide salon-lifted lashes at home thanks to its vortex brush which "grabs every lash and directs them upwards".

The Revolution 5D Whip Lift Mascara also promises no crumbling, no drooping and no smudging.  

Because of its drier texture as soon as I applied it I knew it would be a crumbly mascara, however, it wasn't a lot and only happened after a couple of hours. Also it did not smudge at all and the drooping was minimal. 

I like that it provided lots of volume with just one or two swipes (any more than that and it starts to get clumpy), and it contains nourishing Castor and Argan oils, plus Panthenol which can help condition and potentially improve lash growth.

Didn't love that the brush twists in a vortex style as you have to turn it when applying to ensure even coverage, as this causes the longer bristles to touch the eyelid, staining it with product. 

As this mascara doesn't dry hard it will not make lashes feel "sore" when removing.

It is quite easy to remove (which I attribute to the drier formula), which I really like as when using mascaras I always regret it when it's time to take them off because it takes so long.

The Revolution 5D Whip Lift Mascara features a sturdy hot pink plastic tube packaging with a gold R detail on the top of the lid, contains 12 ml, has a PAO of 6 months and retails for £9.99.

I would recommend the Revolution 5D Whip Lift Mascara if you are looking for an affordable non-smudging mascara that easily adds lots of volume and does not smudge. 

Find the Revolution 5D Whip Lift Mascara at Superdrug, Revolution Beauty, Asos and Look Fantastic.

xo

New in: January & February 2023

Versace Dylan Purple

@skincarestationery Versace Dylan Purple perfume unboxing 🏺 #versace #dylanpurple #unboxingperfume #versacedylanpurple @Versace #veganperfume ♬ Beautiful - Soft boy

Last week I received a bottle of the new Versace Dylan Purple perfume which I was kindly gifted in return of my honest review.

Love the packaging: the magenta box and raised gold accents, with the bottle inside matching the colour scheme perfectly. The heavy glass bottle features the classic Versace amphora shape with a contrasting gold mirrored cap, which is topped with the fragrance name engraved into it. The top of the bottle, also with the mirrored gold finish, features the Versace name on it in raised form, the letters playfully arranged like on the box. On both cap and bottle, the brand's face logo is added in 3D form. 

The perfume bottle is well protected with cardboard padding inside the box, which is sealed in translucent cellophane. 

Versace Dylan Purple opens with fruity and juicy warm citrus notes provided by Orange, Bergamot and Pear.

It quickly turns into a floral harmony comprised of Freesia and Mahonial, with a touch of sweetness added by the Pomarosa note, which is reminiscent of crisp fruit and fresh roses. 

It finally settles into a warm, woody base thanks to Belambre, Iso Super E and Cedarwood. 

The vegan formula replaces Ambergris with Ambrofix, which together with Silkolide add a soft musk tone. The sweetness of the top and middle notes remains throughout as Silkolide keeps it fruity.

Versace Dylan Purple is a very long lasting fragrance (I could still smell the perfume on my clothes the next day even when I only applied 2 sprays on my wrist) that could be classified as a skin scent once it has dried down thanks to what I would call a "modern musk" base, which is comprised of soft and creamy woods with a sweet edge.

As I love wearing sweet fragrances I will continue to use Versace Dylan Purple. I also enjoyed learning about the synthetic notes in this perfume.

The only things to note were that the pump sprayed a bit too much perfume, at least the first couple of times I used it. Also I found it a bit hard to hold when applying due to the shape of the bottle which may take a bit of time to get used to.

Overall, a beautiful feminine and youthful fragrance that I really enjoy and will continue to use through spring and summer. 

If you like sweet, sharp fruity scents with a creamy base that last all day then Versace Dylan Purple is definitely for you! 

Find Versace Dylan Purple at Superdrug, Selfridges and Escentual. 

xo

On Valentine's Day

On Valentine's Day this year, my gorgeous Dotcito got me a card (not pictured), some flowers, chocolate and Le Labo Santal 33 Perfume, as well as Byredo Gypsy Water Hand Cream. They both smell amazing so expect a review very soon!

The weekend prior we also went out for dinner. We don't usually do anything on Valentine's day so it was nice to be able to spend some time alone, together.

xo

They're back at Lush!

@skincarestationery Back at @LUSH self-preserving vegan skincare: Grass #showergel King of Skin #bodybutter and Karma Kream #bodylotion #lush #lushcosmetics #lushcommunity #vegan #skincare #skincarehaul #lushhaul #veganskincare ♬ Strangest Things - Sweet After Tears

Lush kindly sent me these products which have come back into the permanent Lush catalogue by popular demand:

Grass Shower Gel: infused with fresh wheatgrass juice and bergamot to uplift and refresh. It also contains Sandalwood essential oil, known for being calming and soothing on both mind and skin; and Neroli which is proven to increase serotonin levels, resulting in a better, more positive mood. To me it smells quite warm, and reminds me of PlayDoh! for some reason, but then the warm, sensual sandalwood comes through. The green colour comes from the Wheatgrass, the bottle is not tinted as I initially thought. What I really like about this cleanser is how smooth and soft it makes my skin feel, plus a small amount goes a long way. 

Karma Kream Body Lotion: this perfumed moisturiser contains Lush's signature blend of sunny orange, patchouli and fir and claims to last all day. It is inspired by summer days and hippy vibes of the 1960s. It is very lightweight but nourishing at the same time thanks to the Almond Oil, Glycerin and Cocoa Butter in the formula. The scent truly last all day long and if you are a lover of patchouli and warm citrus fragrances then this is definitely for you. 

King of Skin Body Butter: back after a little break, this solid in-shower moisturiser is designed to be hydrating and softening with oat milk and fresh organic fair trade banana. It also contains Cocoa and Shea Butters, fresh Avocado; plus Coconut, Jojoba and Almond Oils. Out of the 3 product scents, this one was definitely my favourite with its delicious orange and chocolate notes, even when I don't usually fancy a chocolate orange, the scent is just irresistible and I wish it was stronger and lingered on the skin for longer. It is very nourishing and easy to use. One to try if you can't be bothered to moisturise outside the shower.

Have you tried any of these products?

xo 

All Used Up #20

Welcome to the 20th edition of All Used Up!

Authentic Biotics Pro-Aging Natural Skincare Capsules*: contains 100% naturally sourced ingredients including Vitamins C, D3, E, K2, B3 and B7, as well as Zinc, Flavanols, Glycosylceramides, and Superoxide Dismutase. While taking this supplement for only 30 days might not be enough to see a very noticeable difference, I found my nails seemed to grow faster and my skin felt soft, moisturised and had barely any breakouts while taking them. Unfortunately I found the capsules quite big and difficult to take (they even got stuck a couple of times which was a bit traumatising), and while there was no aftertaste, I did experience repeating it a few minutes after taking it, with a strong herbal scent. 

Iunik Propolis Vitamin Synergy Serum: this hydrates and lightly moisturises the skin, while giving an extraordinary glow to the skin in two ways: skin reflects light because it is moisturised and hydrated but also seemed to give the most subtle sun-kissed look to my skin. I feel like it helped reduce some pigmentation I have had for years while being gentle on the skin. Would repurchase. 

Neogen Real Bakuchiol Firming Serum*: contains 10% Phyto-Retinol complex which is comprised of Bakuchiol plus Blackberry Extract and Squalane. I also liked that it contains Peptides ( Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) to further help smooth and firm the skin; plus Vitamin C and E, and Guaiazulene. When using this serum my skin felt softer and smoother. 

Nivea Cashmere & Cottonseed Oil Care Shower*: infused with vitamins C & E, plus nourishing oils of Cottonseed and Grapeseed Oil, it cleanses well and leaves skin feeling soft with a baby powder/candy-like scent. The bottle was a bit flimsy as every plastic container seems to be these days and the scent wasn't my favourite but it does the job and it's affordable. 

Iunik Propolis Vitamin Eye Cream: this nourishing cream smells amazing and feels very light on the skin. It helped achieve a smoother look on my eye area thanks to Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide. It also contains soothing Probiotics, Centella, Rosemary and Chamomile Extracts, plus it is amazing value for money. Would definitely repurchase. 

Paco Rabanne Olympea EDP: a long lasting, sweet and warm fragrance. With top notes of Jasmine and Tangerine, Heart Notes of Ginger Flower and Ambergris, and Base Notes of Vanilla and Cashmeran Wood. The most noticeable notes for me are the Vanilla one which is reminiscent of Salted Caramel and gives it a gourmand quality. While it is a really nice perfume I don't think I would have it again as it didn't amaze me.

Have you tried any of these products?

xo

Shapewear for Spring at Shapellx

 *This is a sponsored post

With only a couple of weeks to go, Spring will finally be here and with that a great reason to update our wardrobes. Gone will be the days of having to wear multiple layers (around 4, in my case!) when going out and soon we will be swapping all of that for lighter knits, maybe a jacket, and hopefully dresses and short sleeves when it gets sunny outside!

Sometimes clothing designs or fabrics can be fitted or cling on areas that we wish they didn't, but that's where Shapellx comes in: they are a women's shapewear destination where you will find products for any occasion and for every shape and size. 

With several ranges including sculpting Airslim, seamless PowerConceal, sustainable EcoSeries, supportive CoreSculpt and NeoSweat activewear, you are bound to find something to suit your lifestyle. 

If you are looking to wear an airy top or even a dress, then a backless body shaper might be the choice for you. Pictured above is the AirSlim® Lace Smooth Firm Control Full Body Shaper, which helps to smooth and lift. It comes in 3 different colour options, is fully lined, with adjustable straps and the lace fabric gives it an ultra feminine touch. 

If airy tops are not your thing and are looking forward to wearing some fitted jeans this spring you might prefer some butt lifting shapewear instead. However, there's nothing better than when something can save you not only time but also money, like the Built-In 360° Smooth Ruched Shaping Dress, which, as its name suggests, combines both shapewear and a dress in one piece. This fitted knee-length dress features removable pads on the bust, ruching on the front and back for a slimming effect and long sleeves for a modest look that shows off your figure at the same time. 

You can also head over to the Shapellx blog, where you can read more about the best tummy control shapewear that doesn't roll down. Here they explain the different ranges and products they have to offer on their website so you can find the ideal one for you this spring.

xo

NYX This is Milky Gloss

A while back I was kindly sent a set of the new NYX This Is Milky Lip Glosses to test and review:

Milk n Hunny smells amazing and buttery, like butter sweets or candies. The beautiful scent lingers for a while after applying instead of disappearing instantly. I found this product softening and moisturising and when applied lightly it looks a subtle and natural shade, very glossy, one layer was virtually non-sticky. Notable ingredients include oils of Sunflower, Jojoba and Almond; Glycerin and Vitamin E. I applied it before lunch and my lips felt soft and moisturised even after eating. 

Salted Caramel Shake smells quite similar to Milk n Hunny, but has a bit more pigment (somehow it also smelt less delicious to me). The colour sits somewhere in between the Milk n Hunny and Choco Latte Shake shades. Personally don't feel like this shade suited me very well as it washes me out but if you like a nude coloured lip then you might like this one. Also includes nourishing Sunflower, Jojoba and Almond oils; Glycerin and Vitamin E. It leaves lips feeling soft, shiny and moisturised. 

Choco Latte Shake also has a delicious buttery scent with a hint of chocolate, which I really like. The chocolate fragrance is not very strong or long lasting, with the buttery note being more persistent. It is more pigmented than the Salted Caramel Shake shade, which adds some colour to my lips. Having a "dark autumn" colour palette, I find that this shade did compliment my skin and lip tone, so it would be suitable as a nude shade if you have the same colour palette as me. Out of the 3 nude shades I tested this one would be my favourite as it did not wash me out, added a bit of a tint and evened out the colour of my lips. Like the other shades, it contains nourishing Sunflower, Jojoba and Almond oils; Glycerin and Vitamin E. It offers the same result and leaves lips soft, shiny and moisturised. 

Mango Lassi features a sweet, fruity scent, reminiscent of mango-flavoured sweets rather than a fresh fruit fragrance. It offers a warm orange tint on the lips with a shiny finish. On its own I don't believe it is a colour that suits me very well however, it layers well over other products to add more dimension, moisture and shine. I would say this shade is an ideal SS shade for anyone with a warm complexion. Like the rest of the Lip Glosses, it brings moisture to the lips thanks to Sunflower, Jojoba and Almond oils; as well as Glycerin and Vitamin E.

The This Is Milky Gloss range features clear frosted plastic packaging which makes it look like a more expensive glass tube, and also like that the lid matches the shade inside. The applicator is a flat, velvety doe foot that picks up product easily and is gentle on the lips. 

Something I find a bit confusing is the fact that the front states the product is X flavour but the back mentions "Important: do not ingest", so I assume it is meant more as a fragrance than flavour, like the French wording suggests. 

I appreciate that the products come sealed with a small sticker seal to ensure the product is new and unused. The seal can be easily broken before first use, as it is perforated along the gap between the tube and lid, and the range has a PAO of 18 months.

Find the NYX This is Milky Lip Glosses at Superdrug and Asos.

xo