A few months back I illustrated this Morpho Butterfly in watercolour. Finally edited and uploaded the digital version yesterday so if you like it you can purchase prints, apparel, stationery and more with this design on my RedBubble shop.
xo
28.7.20
Simple Age Resisting Facial Wash
A few months back I purchased the Simple Age Resisting Facial Wash as I was in need of a new cleanser.
This cleanser promises to fight premature ageing and contains no artificial perfume or colour, harsh chemicals that can upset skin, parabens or animal derived ingredients.
With a "special blend of active ingredients", the Simple Age Resisting Facial Wash is meant to remove all impurities and leave complexion visibly clearer while being suitable for even sensitive skin.
The back of the packaging claims to have Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E, Green Tea Extract, Mushroom Extract, Oat Extract, Shea Butter, Allantoin and Chamomile Oil, however I cannot find the Shea Butter or the Allantoin in the ingredient list .
The rest of the aforementioned ingredients are present in the list and it still is a good product nonetheless. The Simple Age Resisting Facial Wash is a mild cleanser without any perfume (it smells faintly of green tea) and the Oat and Chamomile make it very gentle.
It lathers lightly and the cleansing power is OK, but I find it very good value and the skin-soothing and anti-ageing ingredients make it worth it. Something I also want to mention is that it seems to leave a residue that builds up throughout several days worth of use, so I recommend that you use some sort of exfoliant to get rid of any build up that may have accumulated during the week.
All in all, it is a good mild cleanser that I would recommend you try if you are looking for a face wash with anti-ageing capabilities that is also suitable for sensitive skin and is very affordable.
xo
23.7.20
Secret Garden
Some pictures from the day we shot my most recent outfit post, Dot took some of these in between my outfit changes. If you liked the Marigold Planter or the Darner Dragonfly pictures, there are prints, apparel, stationery and home accessories available in my Redbubble Shop.
xo
21.7.20
Suqqu Framing Eyebrow Liquid Pen
A while back I received the Suqqu Framing Eyebrow Liquid Pen in 04 (Gray) to try out. My first impression was that the packaging is very sleek and chic, as well as compact and easy to travel with.
On the Suqqu official website it says that this product has a fine brush tip that allows you to "draw delicate lines and create a natural looking brow". It is also water and oil resistant, so it provides a "long lasting, beautiful finish with a colouration that looks natural on skin".
I have used the Suqqu Framing Eyebrow Liquid Pen a few times and can definitely agree on the fact that it is long lasting and also smudge resistant because it is water and oil proof. Also the colour of the pen looks quite natural on me (I have dark hair) and it is quite useful to fill out any gaps without it being very noticeable.
One thing that I struggled with was the fact that the tip is a very flexible brush, which I found hard to control - you need to be extremely careful so you barely add any pressure because if you do the lines will turn out very thick and therefore not very natural looking. I would have preferred if it featured a fine felt tip as I think it would be easier to use but that is just my preference.
All in all, it is a great quality, long-wearing eyebrow pen with a natural looking finish and colour that would make a great addition to any makeup bag.
Find the Suqqu Framing Eyebrow Liquid Pen in Selfridges and Harrods.
xo
16.7.20
14.7.20
Cien Tropical Summer Mango Face Mask by Lidl
A while ago I saw this Tropical Summer Face Mask in Lidl, they had 2 versions in my local one: Strawberry and Mango, and I opted for the latter one.
This face mask is a "smoothing gel mask with vitamin B3, papaya enzyme and mango fresh cells for noticeable smoother skin". Although I'm not exactly sure what they meant by "mango fresh cells" I still wanted to try it because of the B3 or Niacinamide and exfoliating papaya enzymes.
The Cien Tropical Summer Mango Face Mask has a very sweet mango scent and a light gel consistency that is easy to apply. I just smooth it on and leave it for about 10 minutes then rinse off - it does mention that it can be just wiped off with a tissue but I like to make sure the products I apply afterwards will get into my skin.
After rinsing it off my skin feels smoother and softer. I really like the smell and also the affordability of this mask, which is why I would definitely recommend it if you want to try out a gentle exfoliating product for your face.
This is a limited edition face mask however it seems to make a come back each summer, so if you see it definitely snap it up, otherwise take a look at the Naturally Radiant range from Superdrug or the Botanical Lab Pumpkin & Papaya Enzyme Daily Exfoliator.
xo
9.7.20
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Poppy
For Valentine's Day Dot got me some skincare and beauty items, including the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Poppy.
The Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment is a tinted lip balm with SPF 15 that claims to "moisturise, protect, and smooth the lips while leaving a deep pink red tint, offering sheer coverage or buildable colour."
The ingredients include Jojoba, Grape, Avocado, Passionflower, Meadowfoam, Blackcurrant and Sunflower Seed Oils, as well as Vitamin E and Vitamin A.
This gorgeous tinted lip balm feels amazing on the lips, it has a buttery consistency that melts on contact and leaves a beautiful reddish pink tint that can, as described, be anything from sheer or more solid depending on how much you apply.
Definitely a treat for dry lips, I really enjoy using the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Poppy to help moisturise my lips, add a wash of colour and feel more put together in an instant.
Find the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment collection on Cult Beauty.
xo
7.7.20
10 Ethereal Summer Pieces
Inspired by an ethereal aesthetic I wanted to create a collection of summer items with puff sleeves, pastel colours, printed dresses and floaty fabrics. I wouldn't mind having all of these in my wardrobe right now haha!
xo
2.7.20
Rainy Summer Style
Floral Umbrella £8 // Beige Sporty Wellies £22
Holographic Rain Mac £25 // Pink Trim Transparent Mac £20
Heart Print Head Scarf £15 // Chunky Chelsea Rain Boots £20
So you spend half the year hoping it will get warm and sunny already, wearing layers upon layers waiting for summer, and then it arrives - bringing with it lots of cloudy days and rain! But don't despair as you can still look cute and stylish while gallivanting in the rain by accessorising with the above items (from see-through rain macs so you can still show your outfit off, to some sunglasses in case the sun decides to come back out) all hand picked by yours truly.
xo
30.6.20
Nivea Body Moisturising Mousse
Last week as the temperatures were rising I noticed that the skin on my legs was looking dry, but as it was hot I didn't want to use a heavy moisturiser, so I remembered I had the Nivea Body Moisturising Mousse I got for Christmas still waiting to be used and tried it for the first time.
The Nivea Body Moisturising Mousse is designed for dry skin and claims to provide deep moisture leaving skin softer and smoother for 48 hours. The formula is infused with "deep moisture serum" and Shea Butter and promises to be light to the touch but rich to the skin.
The product is very easy to use, you just shake the can and squirt some product onto hands, then apply to the skin. The Nivea Body Moisturising Mousse has a very light whipped texture, similar to chantilly cream. As soon as it is applied it melts onto the skin and makes it look and feel moisturised. It doesn't leave any sticky residue and feels breathable, not heavy, which is ideal for summer.
Something I didn't completely love was the scent, which I thought would be the exact same as the classic Nivea creme products, however it smells a tiny bit like an ever so slightly sour version of it, which I don't know if that was just my can or it's the normal scent it features. Other than that, it is a really nice product that I would use and acquire again.
Find the Nivea Body Moisturising Mousse in Superdrug.
xo
25.6.20
I Heart Revolution Strawberry Cheesecake Chocolate Palette
Last year Dot got me the I Heart Revolution Strawberry Cheesecake eye shadow palette for my birthday. I love the packaging and how it combines some pink and shimmery shades with a few neutrals, which makes it super versatile. If you like the first picture you can buy prints, stationery, apparel and home goods with it printed on them on my RedBubble shop.
Find the I Heart Revolution Strawberry Cheesecake Chocolate Palette in Superdrug.
xo
23.6.20
Superdrug Vitamin E Nourishing Eye Cream
Time for another beauty product review, and this time it's the Superdrug Vitamin E Nourishing Eye Cream's turn.
This eye cream says it is high in antioxidants and claims to defend skin from environmental damage as well as nourish and help improve the appearance of the eye area with its light, non greasy formulation containing glycerin and a "naturally active energising complex".
The Vitamin E Nourishing Eye Cream is meant for Normal to Dry Skin, and even though the consistency is quite rich and thicker than the eye gel I was using before this product, it is definitely not greasy or sticky. It sinks in fast and leaves the skin around my eyes feeling super soft and smooth.
It contains some really good ingredients normally found in higher end products, such as Retinol and Vitamins B, F and H, as well as moisturisers like Glycerin, Vitamin E, Squalane and Castor Oil, plus anti-inflammatory Horse Chestnut Seed Extract.
While I can't confirm I've seen any extreme changes on the appearance of the skin on the eye area other than increased softness and moisture, I would still continue to buy this eye cream because of the amount of hard working ingredients it contains and the affordability of it.
So if you are looking to buy a cheap and cheerful eye cream that moisturises, smoothes and is under £5, I would recommend you try the Superdrug Vitamin E Nourishing Eye Cream.
xo
18.6.20
The Isle Of Armor: Pokemon Sword & Shield Expansion Pass
If you like playing the Pokemon video games and enjoyed Pokemon Sword or Shield, the latest release of the franchise on the Nintendo Switch, then you probably already know that the first phase of the expansion was released yesterday.
The Isle of Armor is the continuation of the Galar region adventure, where you will find a dojo to train your Pokemon in, as well as new Pokemon and a new Pokedex to fill up with 104 monsters.
You will get to choose from a Gigantamax Bulbasaur or Squirtle, and later into the game you will have a choice on how to train Kubfu as it can evolve into two different forms of Urshifu: one will be Dark & Fighting type, while the other will be Water & Fighting type.
I actually turned off the game before having to choose between Bulbasaur or Squirtle as I am always very indecisive, but I think I know which one to choose now ha. Also, the new rival, Avery in my case as I got Pokemon Shield, kills me with the stuff he says - I find it so funny I have to take a screenshot every time he shows some sass haha.
Will you be downloading the Pokemon Expansion Pass?
xo
16.6.20
6 Cute Reusable Face Masks
Since yesterday the shops have officially reopened here in the UK, but wearing a face mask is compulsory if using public transport. As it's become a new accessory to be worn during your commute, why not take advantage and show off your personality with a cute design on your face mask? These reusable face masks are all £11.75 and available from my RedBubble shop.
xo
11.6.20
7 Summer Wardrobe Must Haves
Straw Hat £16 // Straw Shell Bag £29
Metal Shell Headband £12.50 // Floral Puff Sleeve Dress £39
Summer is less than two weeks away, just as restrictions are loosening and we are able to go out more so it's the perfect time to update your wardrobe. Sometimes you only need a couple of accessories to completely change up your look, so take a look at my Top 7 Summer Wardrobe Must Haves pictured above.
xo
9.6.20
5 Natural Ways To Combat Hay Fever
After months of patiently waiting for it to get warmer, pollen comes along to give some of us itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose. Great, right? If you want to use something besides antihistamines there are a few other options to try that are more natural.
1. Local Honey: There are studies showing that consuming local honey can reduce allergic rhinitis symptoms. Pictured: Hilltop Honey in British Blossom.
2. Camomile Tea: Some herbal teas such as camomile have anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties. Try Twinings Camomile & Orange Tea, (which I tried recently and it's delicious).
3. Essential Oils: Lavender Essential Oil also has anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties, while Lemon Oil inhibits bacterial activity and helps with treating perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. You could diffuse it or put a couple of drops on a tissue in the same room.
4. Barrier Balm: Pollen makes it's way into the body as we breathe through our nose, so applying a balm around the nostrils will help trap pollen and stop it from entering. Try: HayMax Barrier Balm.
5. Face Mask: As mentioned before, pollen enters through the nose, so using a covering such as a scarf or face mask like the one pictured above (which I designed the pattern of) could also help mitigate hay fever symptoms as they reduce the amount of pollen getting into the nose.
Do you have any other tips? Share them in the comments below!
xo
4.6.20
2.6.20
10 Animal Crossing Inspired Home Accessories Under £50
Reversible Fruit Duvet Set £32 // Green Leaves Rug £35
Head Planter £25 // Banana Decoration £9
Monstera Bath Mat £29 // Cabbage Serving Bowl £12.50
If you haven't been playing Animal Crossing New Horizons this quarantine, what have you been doing? No, but seriously, some of the home accessories and furniture available to decorate your home and island in Animal Crossing is so cute, I took on the challenge to find some similarly adorable items you can use to furnish your real life space and bring a little cuteness into your home. Enjoy!
xo
28.5.20
L'Oreal Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo
You might have seen a recent review on a shampoo that made my hair extremely greasy, and to try to combat that and get my scalp back to normal I had to resort to buying a new shampoo.
This time I thought I'd give the L'oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo a chance. This shampoo targets oily roots and dry ends and promises up to 72 hours of purified, lightweight roots thanks to the use of fine clays. It also claims to leave lengths feeling hydrated, soft and revitalised, with shine and bounce.
The L'Oreal Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo manages to control the oiliness of my scalp effectively with the aforementioned 3 clays (argilla, montmorillonite and kaolin) plus the use of salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates and unclogs pores, making it a great option to control oily scalps and dandruff.
It has a pale green colour, light consistency and lathers gently. The scent is something that really stands out as it is more high end than high street, which I really liked. It also leaves my hair soft and very shiny (unlike the last shampoo I used), so I definitely recommend this shampoo if you suffer from dandruff and/or oily scalp.
xo
26.5.20
Something to Watch: Defending Jacob
Over the past couple of days Dot and I have been watching an Apple TV series called Defending Jacob, which is based on the best selling novel of the same name by William Landay.
It follows the case of a 14 year old boy called Jacob after he is accused of stabbing a classmate found in a park he usually walks through on his way to school.
We are currently just over halfway through the series, it is only 8 episodes and it gets more interesting as new circumstances and possible suspects are uncovered.
Will you be watching this series or have you watched it? Let me know in the comments below.
xo
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