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● Laura Thornberry ●

Stuck at home? Me too! We're back in lockdown again, but that shouldn't stop you from taking time out of your day and do some things to help pamper and look after yourself. Self care is a must have and extremely valuable in this current climate of a global pandemic, and is definitely something to incorporate into your daily routine. Feeling isolated can really get you feeling low, unmotivated and start making you feel a little unhappy, but doing something to make you feel better, no matter how big or small, can really boost your mood and cheer you up during these uncertain times. Here are 5 lockdown beauty hacks that I've been adding into my day to day life and are 5 things I recommend you do to!
  
at home pamper essentials

Since we're all staying at home, one thing that is super important is letting your skin breathe. None of us are really wearing any/much make up and this gives us the opportunity to focus on our skincare goals and make some sort of routine. For me, I've made sure to really try and stick to a skincare routine, cleansing properly, exfoliating my skin and weekly face masks to keep my skin glowing throughout the colder months.

A goal of mine in 2021 is to take much better care of my hair, keep it in healthy condition, and ultimately attempt to grow it longer. Throughout the previous lockdowns, weekly hair masks have been a thing, and will continue making an appearance into my haircare routine, in a bid to keep my hair healthy, soft and shiny, even during this extreme cold weather. During the winter months, coconut oil has become my best friend. I like to use this as an overnight treatment, massaging the oil from root to tip, in order to deeply condition and nourish my hair, and simply rinse out in the morning.

Coronavirus and lockdown has us washing our hands countless times a day followed up by hand sanitiser gel, walking outdoors to get our daily exercise, but all this will definitely take a toll on your hands and fee. It's super important to take care of them also! Moisturising hand creams and cuticle oils are the perfect combination to keep your hands looking and feeling nourished. And for the feet, I've been opting for moisturising foot masks and luxurious lotions to keep my feet soft and smooth.

Another lockdown beauty hack I've been using is skin dermaplaning. This is something that I've been doing every 3-4 weeks to improve the appearance and texture of my skin. Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment that removes peach fuzz and dead skin with the tiny scrape of a scalpel. I like to make sure my skin is well moisturised before treatment to help the blade glide over my face, without causing any injury. For this, I simply use a hydrating facial oil to keep my skin lubricated throughout. I picked up my dermaplaning tools from Amazon, and have noticed a big change in health of my skin. From the very first use, my skin was definitely softer and smoother, more radiant and glowy.

Finally, body care. Body exfoliation and moisturising can be quite the chore, but with a lot more time on our hands during lockdown, it's definitely something we should consider to help lift our spirits during these times. A simple beauty hack of regular exfoliation increases the skin's radiance, clarity, and youthfulness, and that's just the start. There are so many benefits from a couple minutes scrubbing in the shower, and of course you'll be left with the silkiest, softest skin possible! Followed up by your favourite body moisturiser or lotion, and you're good to go!

What lockdown beauty hacks are you using? Will you be adding any of the beauty hacks mentioned above into your daily routine?

10:00 1 comments

If you've not heard of Estrid then I don't know where you've been hiding. It's the sustainable razor subscription service that EVERYONE'S been talking about, and I just had to give it a try. After reading a whole load of amazing reviews, I decided I needed to see that all the fuss was about. I wanted to see why Estrid was so popular and why everyone was raving about the subscription service. 

No fuss! No cuts! No more bad shave days? You got it!

Vegan Razor Subscription Estrid

"Hair removal should be optional. Great hair removal shouldn’t. That’s why we’ve created Estrid." 

First of all, the Estrid razor is pretty sharp. Featuring 5 blades for a closer, smoother finish. From the very first use, I was super impressed and my legs had never felt softer. The blade itself features a completely vegan moisturising panel, encased in Cocoa Butter, Aloe Vera & Shea Butter, helping to avoid any shaving rashes or bumps too. I found that the cartridge was super easy to clean, and any hair that was removed didn't get stuck within the blades like it can with some disposable razors. The steel handle is made to such a high quality without the expensive price tag. It feels heavy in your hand, and makes me feel as though I have greater control over my shaving and the direction of movement from the razor. No cuts, no scratches and definitely no razor burns.

Vegan Razor Subscription Estrid

In terms of cost, the pricing for the first subscription is super affordable. The £7.95 starter kit includes; 1 steel handle, 1 wall holder and 2 razor head cartridges. Then by continuing with the subscription, you'll get sent four replacement cartridges for £9.95 in the post as often as you want. No strings attached - cancel anytime! This is the perfect razor service as I'm so forgetful, and never seem to purchase new razors when I need to, so the fact they come direct to my door is game-changing!

Vegan Razor Subscription Estrid

"Every purchase makes a difference. Estrid feels different and makes a difference, too. For every purchase you make, we donate a portion to Kvinna till Kvinna, Medica Mondiale, or the Fawcett Society, all of which work to support women and gender equality around the world."

Have you tried Estrid yet?

10:00 No comments

 Women's perfumes and fragrances are the ideal gifts for anytime of the year, but especially Christmas. I know I've always got at least one or two on my list to add to my ever-growing collection. From YSL to Ghost to Primark, I've built quite the collection with a range of scents, there is always the perfect perfume for any occasion. But as always, I have perfumes on my wishlist, and Christmas is the perfect time to get some new ones. So here's the 6 women's perfumes on my christmas wishlist this year!

1. Ariana Grande - Cloud
"This addictive scent opens with a dreamy blend of alluring lavender blossom, forbidden juicy pear and mouth-watering bergamot. The heart of the fragrance is a whipped touch of crème de coconut, indulgent praline and exotic, vanilla orchid. Sensual musks and creamy woods add a cashmere like feel that seduces the senses."

I've been a huge fan of Ariana's perfume range. I've previously worn both ARI and Sweet Like Candy, and for celebrity perfumes, they are absolutely lovely and super affordable. This perfume would be perfect for everyday use, the scents itself are so fresh and fruity, it would be a stand out fragrance in your collection.

2. YSL - Black Opium Intense
"Blue absinthe, flavoured with wormwood, and aromatic herbs combines with anis and sweet blue boysenberry; jasmine sambac absolute fuses with orange blossom absolute, making up the sensual heart of the fragrance. At the base, the sultry coffee note that underpins the Black Opium iconic olfactory signature is accompanied by licorice, sandalwood and creamy vanilla for a deliberately daring, ultra-feminine scent."

The original Black Opium perfume from YSL is my absolute all time favourite. It's my go-to signature scent. I just can't get enough! But when I noticed there was a newer, more intense version of this, I knew it had to be mine. YSL fragrances never disappoint. They are so long-lasting, they make you smell incredible and they'll have you getting compliments all day long!


3. Thierry Mugler - Alien
"Distinctive and mysterious, yet comforting and soft, Alien by MUGLER conveys passion sensuality and the essence of absolute femininity. Alien Perfume is a rich floral woody amber fragrance containing jasmine sambac, cashmeran wood and white amber it is a fragrance whose magic trails awakens your emotions. A scent like no other it is irresistibly appealing and totally out of this world..."

I've purchased Alien previously, so I have included this as this is such a great perfume for anyone, regardless of age. It's unlike any perfume that I've tried before. It has a very strong, deep scent, slightly musky and mysterious, that really lingers on the skin all day long. No need for top ups!

4. Hugo Boss - The Scent for Her
"Inspired by a journey of powerful seduction, 'Boss The Scent' for her exudes a sublime feminine elegance, warmth and seductiveness that unfolds gradually over time drawing the BOSS woman and the BOSS man closer."

Another perfume that I've worn previously but have now ran out of. The Scent by Hugo Boss is very light and fresh, with a sweet floral fragrance. It's a perfect perfume to take from day to night. So sophisticated yet delicate, it's definitely one to add to your collection.


5. Gucci - Bamboo
"Gucci Bamboo perfume for her by Gucci encourages confidence and strength. A woody, floral women’s perfume that is beautifully feminine and natural. Warming woody notes flow through the women’s fragrance; deep sandalwood and amber combined with sweet Tahitian vanilla. A complementary contrast of exotic floral notes balances the perfume with coft undertones of Casablanca lily, orange blossom and ylang-ylang."

One brand that I'm yet to venture towards when it comes to perfumes is Gucci. I've added this one to my wishlist not only to test the Gucci scent, but also because it's more of a sweet floral scent that I don't really have in my collection.

6. Giorgio Armani - Si
"Chic, sultry, intense and soft at the same time, Sì is a chypre scent reinvented, lingering on the skin and captivating the senses. It combines an inflection of three accords: blackcurrant nectar, modern chypre and light musky wood."

Again, Giorgio Armani is another brand that I haven't come across yet in terms of perfumes, but I've heard so many good reviews and recommendations of theirs, that I know I need to give it a try. The classic perfume 'Si' seems to be a firm favourite from the Armani fragrance line and is one that I would really love to try. The mixture of notes that are combined within the perfume sound absolutely lovely. Fruity and musky sounds like the perfect combination, and I know that I'll need to purchase this one soon!

What perfumes are on your wishlist? What are your favourite fragrances?


09:00 1 comments

How long has it been since you've had a relaxing pamper night? Especially with the current lockdown and everything going on in the world, it's extremely important to take a step back and enjoy some time to yourself, and there's nothing better than a self care pamper evening. Obviously one of the most relaxing and unwinding things to do is have a nice hot bath/shower, but there are a few other steps you can take for the ultimate pamper. So treat yourself today by checking my list of self-care tips to get inspired.

winter drugstore skincare

1. First things first, skincare. Is there anything better than taking your makeup off after a long day, and just feeling extremely refreshed and revitalized. I like to use a hot cloth cleanser to take off any makeup, as its extremely gentle on the eyes for those who wear mascara, eyeliner or eyeshadow. I would then opt for a facial exfoliator, or a face wash with my cleansing brush, for a deeper clean, even followed up by a face mask for that super skin detox. This leaves my skin feeling super soft and smooth. Finishing up with any products that I would use in my skincare routine, depending on my current skin needs. During the winter time, I'm ALL about hydration and getting that skin glow. Moisturising creams, serums, oils are winter essentials, and don't forget that lip balm!

winter haircare

2. Next up, haircare. Washing, drying and styling your hair can seem like such a chore, but applying a luxurious hair mask beforehand makes it so much more worthwhile. Hair masks that make my hair silky, smooth and shiny are my absolute must haves, as well as leaving my hair smelling delicious. I make sure to brush my hair thoroughly before applying my hair mask, and make sure each strand is covered from root to tip, and leave it to get to work for as long as possible, sometimes even overnight! I've also recently added the OGX Kukui Oil duo and The Hair Boss Overnight Serum to my haircare routine, and my hair has never looked better. So soft, nourished and super shiny.

3. After having a nice warm, relaxing bath/shower, it's a must have to put on some super cosy and comfy loungewear/pyjamas. Oversized is a must have as there is nothing worse than tight, uncomfortable clothing. I recently posted some super comfy loungewear finds from FemmeLuxe - think oversized joggers and cute matching co-ords!

4. Creating a cosy environment is an essential part of making your evening super relaxing and calm. Make sure to be lighting some candles, grabbing all the fluffy blankets and cushions, you could even hang up some cute fairy lights. Having a cosy environment around you can help to de-stress and give you a break from your daily routine.

organic india teas

5. Something that I've been including recently in my pamper routine is making a warm, relaxing drink. I've really been enjoying the Organic India Teas* and found these to really help destress and unwind during the colder evenings. My favourite is definitely the Tulsi Pomegranate Green Tea*. Infused with Pomegranate and Hibiscus flowers and the tangy flavour of Raspberries is a delightful combination and the perfect drink to have in the evenings. Tulsi is a great addition as it rich in antioxidants and can help to boost your immune system. The Organic India Teas are extremely relaxing, warming and delicious, and a must try for those who love green tea or even if you want a break from the usual coffee, tea or hot chocolate!

6. One part of your self care evening should be treating yourself to your favourite foods and drinks. There's nothing more comforting than ordering/making your favourite dishes, followed with a glass of your favourite drink to lift your spirits. There's so many great choices, whether you're a lover of pasta, pizza, Chinese, Indian, Mexican, the options are never ending, and there is always food to fit your mood.

7. Finally, get comfy and sit back and watch your favourite films/series. Whether you pick something from Netflix, Disney+, Youtube or just something on the TV, it's the perfect way to spend the rest of your evening. I'm currently watching Orange Is The New Black, and I'm hooked!

What are your self care pamper essentials?

ad* | Products marked * have been gifted for review purposes/feature

09:00 1 comments

 If you're an avid Primark shopper, you may have noticed their recent beauty range that hit the shelves earlier this year, featuring celebrity hair stylist Andrew Fitzsimons. This collaboration has created an affordable haircare range that delivers amazing results for your hair. The collection includes everything from the shampoos and conditioners to styling sprays and accessories, there's so much choice, you'll want absolutely everything! 


I knew that I definitely wanted to try lots of products from the AF range, but the one haircare piece that really stood out to me was the Luxe Hair Oil. I absolutely love hair oils and I don't know what I would do without them, so I really wanted to give this one a go and see how well it works for my hair.

“Everyone deserves amazing hair without having to pay celebrity prices” - Andrew Fitzsimons

From the first use, I knew I was really going to love this product, and would definitely repurchase again when needed. The oil itself feels thick and luxurious, just be sure to go carefully, as a little goes a long way. I have medium length hair, and found just one pump is enough to coat my mid-lengths and ends, without leaving any greasy residue or weighing your hair down like some other oils can.


I've used this oil both on damp and dry hair. It's perfect for using once you've just washed your hair, simply massage a pump of oil through your fingertips and apply to the ends. Or similarly, using on dry hair just to add some life back into hair that may look dull and in need of some TLC. The luxe hair oil makes your hair so much more manageable, banishing frizz, eliminating any tangles, as well as adding shine, leaving your hair super soft and silky.

Retailing at just £3.50, this hair oil was a complete steal! I would highly recommend this hair oil as it has really done wonders with my hair. My hair feels so much softer, smoother and hydrated - even my ends look healthy! I will definitely be trying some more from the Andrew Fitzsimons range at Primark when I get the chance. There's a hair mask that's available that's calling my name!

Have you tried any of the AF haircare range? What are your favourite Primark beauty products?

10:00 No comments

When it comes to makeup, the one item I couldn't live without is mascara. Mascara has a number of beauty benefits. It instantly adds thickness, length, and a darker color to the lashes, which draws attention to the eyes and creates definition. It can really help to make your eyes pop and the main focus of your face. I've posted about a number of mascaras previously, with some of my favourites being from Rimmel and Benefit, but I wanted to test something on the cheaper end of the scale - Primarks Billion Dollar Lashes Mascara, retailing at just £3. Bargain or what?

The mascara was super easy to apply, due to the dual sided rubber brush that coats each lash, giving definition and separation without any smudging or clumping. The thin bristles on the mascara wand help you make sure you reach every single lash, resulting in a natural, fluttery finish. Billion Dollar Lashes claims to give instant volume and curl, and it does just that! My lashes stay in place and curled all day, without any transfer or flaking. 

Below I've included some before, during and afters of application of the Primark Billion Dollar Lashes Mascara to show you how I got on with it!

above - natural lashes
above - curled lashes
above - left eye curled with mascara, right eye curled no mascara
above - both eyes with one coat of mascara

Overall, I was extremely impressed with how this mascara applied and lasted on my eyelashes. Although I didn't wear it for the 16 hours that it claims to wear for, it certainly lasts the majority of the day. It definitely helped to define my eyes, giving them length and volume, and the mascara helped to keep my lashes curled all day long! For only £3, this is a definite steal and something that will be added to my makeup bag asap!

Have you tried Primark Billion Dollar Lashes Mascara? What are your current go-to mascaras?
10:30 No comments

With the cold, winter months incoming, I've been on the lookout for the perfect haircare products to add to my current routine to make sure my hairs kept hydrated. If you're not familiar with Function of Beauty, then you're seriously missing out! The products they have to offer are 100% customizable and designed to work specifically for you, all worked out with a simple 2 minute quiz which determines the formula for your hair products depending on your hair type and hair goals. 

For me, my hair type is considered slightly wavy, medium length and dry.
The hair goals I opted for were anti-frizz, deep condition, hydrate, lengthen and shine. I wanted to improve the texture and appearance of my hair, and keep it looking healthy and nourished all year round.

shampoo and conditioner. The Function of Beauty shampoo and conditioner are recommended for all hair types as each product is specially formulated to address your unique hair goals and needs. Individually formulated to give your hair everything it needs to look and feel its best. I opted for the strong pear fragrance for my hair duo and the scent is incredible! I also like that you can choose the colours for both your shampoo and conditioner, I chose the gorgeous deep blue and bold orange for my hair products. From the very first use, I felt a huge difference in my hair. Softer, shinier and more hydrated, I knew with continuous use, my hair would be in the best condition it's ever been in.

hair mask. A luxurious intensive deep conditioning treatment that helps nourish and hydrate dry and damaged, transforming it to super soft and silky. This mask has a fully customizable formula that delivers a blend of nutrients to help give your hair the moisture it. Formulated with a blend of Japanese sake extract, argan oil, jojoba ester oil, and a custom blend of natural ingredients depending on your hair goals. I like to use this mask once a week and you'll have beautifully nourished hair in no time at all!

hair serum. A lightweight oil that helps enhance hairs shine, smoothes frizz + and increases hair's overall appearance and texture. Formulated with blend of argan, jojoba, and sunflower oils, it's the perfect product to use when drying and styling your hair, for the perfect finish. I apply this to the mid lengths and ends, as this is where I need the most protection and hydration.

Function of Beauty is on the slightly pricier side of haircare, but you shouldn't let that put you off as it's definitely worth the money. My hair has never looked so good and feels so incredibly soft. You'll be saying goodbye to bad hair days once you've added Function of Beauty haircare to your routine this winter!

Have you tried Function of Beauty?

15:50 1 comments
When it comes to skincare, it can be such a struggle to find products that are suitable for your skin type, suit your personal budget and actually work. My skincare routine is never always the same, as I need to change and swap out products that I'm using, depending on my skin needs at the time. I mentioned in my last blog post some of my current favourite skincare products that have been helping me to improve my skin through the summer, and as the weather is turning colder. But something I have been reading up on at the moment is CBD skincare, and the benefits this has when used within skincare. Many brands are starting to incorporate CBD into their skincare products, making it accessible to all, regardless of your budget.

 CBD for skincare is something that has become more popular than ever and emerging as a miracle product in the skincare world. It's becoming increasingly common in the beauty industry, but what is CBD Oil? And how are you supposed to use it? CBD is short for cannabidiol - a natural compound found in cannabis plants- a product being marketed in skin care products for everything from acne to wrinkles, which would make it a great option for all skin types. Typically, CBD oil is used in a large variety of skincare products, including serums, creams, masks, and body and face oils, so there is definitely a product for whatever skin concerns you may have. In addition to its calming properties, the biggest and most prominent benefits of CBD include anti-ageing, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

With having anti-inflammatory properties, CBD oil itself may help to stop the overproduction of skin oil that causes oily, blemish prone acne skin, and to control the production of sebum in the skin layers. CBD can reduce inflammation of breakouts and, regulate oil production in the skin, and eventually reduce breakouts in general.

CBD is known to be a powerful antioxidant that can help with preventing signs on ageing and wrinkles, and it can also help protect the body from harmful free-radical damage. As well as this, CBD has also been tested and proven to work on any fine lines or dark spots that may occur in the skin, making it a great product for all age categories. Antioxidants help skin stay more radiant and youthful looking longer. It also has great moisturizing and hydrating properties that can help combat dehydrated and dry skin, making it a great addition to your skincare routines during the colder, winter months. 

As well as in skincare products, CBD Oil is said to help also help those suffering with anxiety, sleeping disorders and pain control, making it a great product to add to your daily routine and skincare favourite for a lot of people. CBD is also a great healer of specific skin conditions, including eczema and Psoriasis. Incorporating CBD into your skincare is a great idea, especially if you need some extra hydration, protection or relief from dry, itchy skin!

Have you used CBD Oil?       

ad* | This post has been sponsored

19:00 No comments

    During the warmer months of the year, my skincare routine changes ever so slightly, incorporating more lightweight and hydrating products, to help keep my skin moisturised, radiant and glowy. So here's a few of my current favourites!

One skincare product that I've really been enjoying using is the The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. I generally use this at night time as a more hydration serum, and it sinks into my skin almost immediately after application. I don't find it too sticky at all and my skin feels very soft and plump afterwards. When I wake up in the morning, my skin looking brighter, more radiant and fresh.

A new addition to my current skincare routine has been the Lavera Hydro Sensation Gel Cream*. This hydrating gel moisturiser has been the perfect product to use in the morning during the warmer months as it's super lightweight, quickly absorbs into the skin and leaves your skin looking radiant and glowy. This moisturiser features natural, organic ingredients including Hyaluronic Acid and Algae to help give a light, fresh and hydrating feel to your skin, whilst retaining all the moisture that is needed when your skin is feeling slightly dry.

Alongside the Lavera Gel Cream, I've also been adding the Lavera Hydro Sensation Serum* to my morning skincare routine after washing/cleansing my skin. The lightweight serum uses hydrating ingredients of Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Algae which go deeper into the skin to give long lasting moisture to smooth wrinkles and plump the skin. Perfect to use under moisturisers for that extra added hydration when your skin really needs it.

A product I've mentioned previously is the Simple Hydration Booster. It's been a favourite of mine for a while and is my go-to product when areas of my skin are feeling drier than usual. I mentioned this product back in my Winter Skin Favourites and have been using it ever since. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin, helping me get that skin glow and leaving it looking and feeling healthy. The Simple Hydrating Booster facial moisturiser has been designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines.

Lastly, one of my absolute favourites has been the Revolution Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask. I've only recently started to use Revolution skincare and so far I've been super impressed! The perfect addition to your routine to hydrate your skin overnight with this Hyaluronic Acid infused treatment. Formulated with Sweet Almond Oil to encourage smooth and soft skin and Vitamin E to moisturise. I generally use this mask 1-2 times per week, and apply a thin layer to freshly cleansed skin before I go to sleep.7

What are your current skincare favourites?

ad *| products marked with * have been gifted for review purposes
22:59 No comments
When it comes to skincare, I like to keep my routines as basic as possible to make sure I don't overload my skin and apply too many products. I recently shared my winter skincare favourites, which included some amazing and affordable products that have helped keep my skin healthy and happy. If you have seen this post, then you would have noted that I spoke about the Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster - a super lightweight formula facial moisturiser designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines. As I really enjoyed using this product from the Simple x Little Mix collection, I wanted to branch out and test out a few more items, (I picked up 4 items in total) see how they compared and see if they improved my skin.
Simple x Little Mix Face Wash
The first product I decided I wanted to test is the Moisturising Facial Wash. Formulated for a gentle cleanse - it helps remove dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores, without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. Enriched with vitamin B5, known to actively restore, soften, and smooth skin, this cleansing wash is especially good for dry or sensitive skin. I've been using this simply with some warm water and a face cloth for a gentle cleanse on an everyday basis, or with my facial cleansing brush for a more deep cleanse - once or twice a week when necessary.
Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask
If you're looking for something that really gives your skin that boost of hydration, the Rich Moisture Sheet Mask is what you need to try. Packed with rose extract, agave extract and natural fibres, this sheet mask is formulated to give your skin "16 days worth of moisturiser in just one application" - just what you need when the cold winter air has really dried out your skin! I tend to reach for sheet masks a couple of times a month, when needed, or when my normal skincare routine just isn't enough and I need extra moisture and nourishment.
Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster
I've previously mentioned the Hydrating Booster on my blog in another post, so I won't talk about it for too long. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin. It absorbs into the skin really quickly, and doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy or tacky. This is a product I generally use when I think my skin needs some extra hydration - mainly around my cheeks and nose.
Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask
The Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask is perfect for those who suffer with puffy eyes and dark circles. If you're struggling with getting enough sleep, these are definitely the magic product to use to mask any eye problems and give an illusion of a brighter, smoother and more radiant under eye. Made with natural fruit enzymes, including lemon extract and pomegranate extract, as well as vitamin b3, these help to brighten the skin and radiate that healthy glow, for a more awake and refreshed complexion. I like to use these as a skin treat once a week to help keep my under eyes hydrated and bright. Simple peel the masks off and apply to the under eye area and leave for 5 minutes. How easy could it be? 

The range features the following 6 products; 
Simple x Little Mix Moisturising Facial Wash 150ml £3.65
Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask £2.99
Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster 25ml £6.99
Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Mask £2.99
Simple x Little Mix Biodegradable Face Wipes 20 PC £3.65
Simple x Little Mix Micellar Water 400ml £6.59

"At Simple we believe in being kind to skin, the planet and people, and that’s why we have created this Limited Edition range of Simple packs in partnership with Little Mix. In the UK, nearly 1 in 3 teens have experienced bullying online so together with Little Mix and our charity partner Ditch the Label, we are making a stand. Covered with kind words, this pack celebrates and inspires others to wipe away unkind words and instead #ChooseKindness. "

Have you tested out the Simple x Little Mix skincare collaboration? What is your favourite product?
10:00 No comments
One of my goals for 2020 is to grow, take better care of my hair, and make sure to keep it in the healthiest condition it has ever been. I've also vowed to try and use less heat tools on my hair, mainly hair straighteners, to prevent dryness, breakage and split ends. Over the years I've stuck to the same haircare brands and the same products - which I have really enjoyed using - but I have decided that it's time to change things up, try something new and see what products work best for my hair type. In terms of my hair type, I have medium length, natural, dark blonde hair which is mostly straight but with a slight wave to it in parts. I've also never dyed my hair which has kept my hair in a good condition. Below are a number of hair masks, oils and serums that I have chosen will aim to help add moisture and hydration, prevent frizz and breakage, as well as adding shine and sleekness to my hair, that I think will help to achieve my hair goals for 2020.
hydrating hair masks

Wishlist - Garnier Ultimate Blends Hair Food Coconut 3 in 1 Mask £6.99 / Bondi Boost Miracle Mask 250ml £25.95 / Shea Moisture Superfruit Masque 326ml £10.99

Hair Masks are a great way to really give your hair a deep and thorough condition. They have similar benefits as a conditioner—like deeply nourishing and strengthening hair—but are more intense and powerful. Hair masks can also target any specific hair concerns you may have, which for me would be frizz, dry ends and dullness. I always look for super hydrating hair masks, usually enriched with nourishing oils, that will really add some moisture back into my hair. I really want to try and aim to be using hair masks 1-2 times a week to really help keep my hair moisturised and nourished, as the colder weather can really damage it and make it dry.

hydrating hair oils

Wishlist - VO5 Nourishing Coconut Hot Oil 4x15ml £4.39 / OUAI Hair Oil 50ml £24 / HASK Argan Shine Oil Pump 100ml £6.99

Hair Oils are a great way to control frizz, tame flyaways and add shine to your hair. They are super lightweight and don't weigh your hair down or make it greasy. I tend to use oils on the mid-lengths and ends of my hair, on freshly washed hair or on dry hair to lock in some moisture and help with shine. I like using oils that contain avocado, argan, coconut or macadamia nut, as for me, these provide the most moisture for my hair and help to boost the appearance/texture of my hair.
hydrating hair serums
Wishlist - John Frieda Frizz-Ease Extra Strength 6 Effects + Serum 50ml £6.99 / L'Oreal Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum £8.00 / Lee Stafford Cactus Crush Dazzle Drops 50ml £8.49 / VO5 Heat Protect Serum £4.40
Hair Serums are another treatment that I like to use on a day to day basis. One of the main use of hair serum is that it makes the hair shinier, healthier and causes less tangles. They are perfect for using on washed hair or when styling hair. I always pick up serums that will really benefit my hair needs - mainly to help prevent frizz, split ends, to add shine or to protect from heat.

What products are on your haircare wishlists? What products would you recommend?

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With the start of 2020 in full swing, I wanted to write about some of my favourite skincare products I have been using religiously over the last few months. With the incredibly cold weather that we have been having, my skin has needed extra hydration and moisturising, and the products I have been using have really kept my skin nourished and looking healthy.
Lavera Soft Moisturising Cream
Keep your skin beautifully soft, smooth, plump, and hydrated with Lavera Soft Moisturising Cream*.  A soft and luxurious cream from the basis sensitive range, perfect for the face, body and hands - this cream has been my go to moisturiser for the colder weather, where my skin has needed extra hydration. Enriched with Jojoba and Aloe Vera with added Vitamin E to protect, care and provide long lasting moisture for your skin.
Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster
A new addition to my Winter skincare routine has been the Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin, helping me get that skin glow and leaving it looking and feeling healthy. The Simple Hydrating Booster facial moisturiser has been designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines.
Superdrug Vitamin C Energising Facial Spritz
The Superdrug Vitamin C Energising Facial Spritz has been my life-saving product during the colder months - keeping my skin glowing, radiant and refreshed. I've previously used the Superdrug Vitamin C range and absolutely loved it, and this facial spritz is no exception. I've used this both morning and nighttime as the perfect energising and revitalising wake up call for my skin!
Beauti Skincare Beauty Sleep Elixir
I previously reviewed the Beauti Skincare Beauty Sleep Elixir* back in December 2018, and it's been something I've used ever since! This facial oil is the perfect skincare product you need to give a radiance boost to your complexion and give your skin that healthy glow all year round. This luxurious face oil is 100% natural and enriched with fourteen precious plant oils. I use this oil twice a week as part of my nighttime skincare routine, and in the morning, my skin is plump, hydrated and nourished.
Nivea Soft Lips Lip Balms
It may not be skincare as such, but lip balm is a Winter essential for sure! I've tried plenty of lip balms and never found one that really works until I picked up the Nivea Soft Lips Lip Balms. They are so moisturising and hydrating, you can say goodbye to dry, chapped lips forever!
E45 Moisturising Lotion
Finally, everybody's favourite - E45 Moisturising Lotion. I suffer with extremely dry skin on both my legs and arms, so I would be completely lost without this stuff! This is a super light, and easily absorbed lotion that you can use all over the body, and keeps your skin hydrated all day long.

What are your Winter skin favourites?

ad* | Products marked with * have been gifted for review purposes
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With Spring in full force and Summer on its way, I've switched up my skincare routine. I've ditched my heavy moisturisers and serums and opted to use lighter products on my skin. I've currently been using the Sonya Daily Skincare System to help prep and maintain my skin for the warmer months ahead.
Sonya Daily Skincare System
There are some great benefits in each of the skin-enhancing products, including;
- The Refreshing Gel Cleanser has apple amino acids for a soft lather that doesn’t strip your skin.
- The Illuminating Gel brightens the appearance of skin giving it a more radiant appearance.
- The Refining Gel Mask is a PM mask that works while you sleep to control oil, improve skin tone and moisturise the skin.
- The Soothing Gel Moisturiser boasts over 10 plants and extracts as well as collagen and leaves your skin dewy.
Sonya Daily Skincare System
The first product I tried was the Refreshing Gel Cleanser*. I used this both morning and evening to help remove dead cell buildup, dirt and makeup. Probably my favourite product from the collection, leaving my skin feeling super clean without stripping it of moisture. The cleanser had a gentle lather which is great for for combination skin. From the very first use, my skin was feeling so smooth and clean after every wash.

The Refining Gel Mask* was a dream to use as part of my evening skincare routine. Infused with carrot seed oil, basil oil, artemisia pallens flower oil and soybean oil quickly absorbs into your skin and helps to moisturise your skin while you sleep. Upon waking up in the morning, it left my skin feeling soft with a youthful glow, call it beauty sleep in a bottle if you like! By using it only 2-3 times a week, you’ll wake up to skin that looks brighter, younger and more balanced, perfect for those Summer no makeup days!
Sonya Daily Skincare System
In terms of adding hydration into my skin, the Soothing Gel Moisturiser* is a gel based formula that simply melts into your skin, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. Packed with over 10 natural plant extracts and oils, this moisturiser has really
helped to leave my skin feeling hydrated and supple, as well as improving the overall look of my complexion.

The final product in the Sonya Daily Skincare System is the Illuminating Gel*. This gel is formulated to even and brighten overall skin tone and help radiate that healthy summertime glow. I've been using this product on days where my skin is looking quite dull and tired, and I feel like this has improved my skin, and emitting reflect soft, smooth texture, with an even skin tone. A perfect product for added moisture where your skin needs it most!

Have you tried the Sonya Skincare System? Which product would be your favourite?

ad* |This post contains samples sent from Forever Living to feature for a product review

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When it comes to makeup, I keep things very natural and simple. I'd much prefer the extra time in bed in the morning, so a quick and easy 20 minute makeup routine suits me just fine. Lavera have recently launched a new collection of exciting natural and organic colour cosmetic make up products and I was lucky enough to test a few of them out over the last couple of months. This allowed me to fully test each individual product and to test the longevity of each formula.
Lavera Makeup
Colour Cosmetics is a comprehensive range that has everything you need to fulfil your makeup bags: from complexion perfecting foundations with high performing innovative formulations to care for the skin, on-trend lip colours to must-have mascaras. What more could you ask for?
Lavera Cover and Care Stick in Ivory
 The first product I would use for an everyday makeup look is the Lavera Cover and Care Stick in Ivory*. I use the concealer mainly under my eyes to help brighten them and make my complexion look fresh and bright. The Cover and Care Stick has a creamy soft texture  that applies so easily along the skin, without any pulling or dragging. The concealer is formulated organic Witch Hazel which has great skincare benefits and helps to reduce and relieve any inflammation of the skin. I made sure to powder the concealer once applied to help avoid creasing later on in the day.
Lavera Organic Eyebrow Pencil in Blonde
Next up in my routine would be brows. I'm quite luck that my eyebrows are quite full but I do have some sparse areas that just need filled in. I opted for the Lavera Organic Eyebrow Pencil in Blonde*. The pencil is super pigmented, meaning you only need the softest touch when filling in your brows, otherwise they will end up looking too overdone and unnatural. The colour is slightly too warm toned for me which doesn't match my brow colour 100%, but if you use careful, fine strokes, the product works absolutely fine.
To add some glow onto my skin, I used the Lavera Organic Highlighter in Shining Pearl*, and applied this to my brow bone and cheek bones, for a pop of radiance. The organic highlighter has a soft, smooth, creamy texture thanks to organic Jojoba, Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter. The highlight has a very pale pink, perfect for all skin tones, helping to give a radiant sheen to both the eyes and cheeks, that really completes your makeup look. 
Lavera Powerful Lashes Mascara
A makeup look would never be complete without a good mascara, and the Lavera Powerful Lashes Mascara* is a great one to use for an everyday natural look. The innovative mascara brush perfectly coats the individual lashes as well as giving them a slight curl. This mascara is perfect for those wanting to achieve a natural look to the eye. It lengthens, adds volume and definition to the lashes, without any clumping or smudging. Powerful Lashes Mascara is enriched with organic Shea Butter to nourish your lashes and keep them in the best condition.
Lavera Mineral Compact Powder in Ivory
To set everything in place and keep away the shine, the Lavera Mineral Compact Powder in Ivory* was my go-to product. The compact powder gives sufficient coverage for a fresh, radiant finish and is the perfect size for taking on the go. The light reflecting minerals together with natural colours complements your complexion giving a radiant look whilst eliminating shine. The smooth matte finish is ideal for fixing your make-up and helping it last all day long.
Lavera Glossy Lips in Hazel Nude
To complete my everyday look, I finish off by using the Lavera Glossy Lips in Hazel Nude*. The ultimate "your lips but better" colour and a great everyday nude shade, with the perfect amounts of brown, nude and pink. The gloss itself applies smoothly and evenly, giving the lips a perfect coverage in just one swipe. No stickiness, no smudging and no fuss to apply. This gloss has become a staple for me and something I would definitely recommend for those more natural makeup days.

Overall, I was super happy with the products that I have been using from Lavera over the last couple of months. My favourites have definitely been the Compact Powder, Highlighter and the Lip Gloss. I also recently featured the Lavera Lash Care Serum on my blog, which is a must have for your makeup bag. It's a total game changer for your eyelashes.

You can find out more about Lavera Cosmetics here.

Have you tried Lavera Cosmetics before? What are your favourite products for an everyday natural makeup look?

ad* | This post contains samples sent from Lavera to feature for a product review

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