My 13 Favourite Products Of 2013

Last year, I posted My 12 Favourite Products of 2012 so in keeping with the tradition, here are My 13 Favourite Products of 2013. Four products have made it into my favourites for the second year running but they are products that I reach for everyday. They deserve their award of favourite product!

Haircare

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Shampoo and Liz Earle Botanical Shine Conditioner - I have been using this shampoo and conditioner for about six months now and I have gone through two bottles of each. This was my first experience of haircare products that contain no parabens or sulphates. Banning nasty ingredients from my haircare routine has improved the quality of my hair so much. Both products smell natural and clean as they are made from all natural ingredients. You can read what I think about this shampoo and conditioner in more detail here.

Moroccanoil Treatment - Back in August, I attended an event with Look Fantastic and we were extremely lucky to receive a goody bag with a small bottle of Moroccanoil in. Ever since I started using Moroccanoil, my hair has made a dramatic improvement in texture as well as shine and manageability. Moroccanoil also helps to lessen the drying time, which is a godsend when you have long, thick hair. I actually love it so much that I asked my mum and dad Santa to get me a full sized one. I can't wait to start using that one as it has a pump and the little bottle doesn't so I have to pour an amount into the palm of my hand and sometimes I'm a little generous!

Skincare

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner - It took me ages and ages to make my mind up whether to get this exfoliator or not. I had read so many reviews where bloggers raved about chemical exfoliators over manual ones but to be honest the word chemical scared me. In the end, I decided to use some of my much loved Boots points to buy the item, that way if I didn't like the product, I hadn't used up my own money. However, I love this product and I'm so happy it's in my life. You do have to be careful when you go outside but if you already use SPF, this isn't a problem. If you don't, make sure you apply SPF for a couple of days after using it just to protect your skin. I use it twice a week, in the evening, in the place of my regular toner and it is so gentle and actually rather soothing on my face. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo - Effaclar Duo is a highly raved about skincare product in the beauty blogger world. I can completely understand why. This is my second or third tube (which is empty) and I need to repurchase it ASAP. It has made such a difference to my skin. I still suffer from spots but I have PCOS however it has changed my complexion so much. It helps to clear up spots quicker and it also takes the redness out of my spots.

ESPA Essential Cleansing Mask - I was extremely lucky to be given an ESPA gift card. One of the purchases I made was the Essential Cleansing Mask. My favourite thing about the mask is that it tells me to relax for 20 minutes! Seriously, if you ever needed an excuse to relax, this is it! I use this mask once or twice a week, in the evening, usually after a bath or shower so my pores are open. This is a luxurious mask and a little bit actually goes a long way. I have used the mask quite a few times and it doesn't look like I have used it at all. In the morning, I can definitely notice a difference in my skin. It feels and looks a lot smoother and clearer. Winner!

Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer - I purchased this last year in the Christmas sales after trying a sample. Ever since my first try I have been hooked on this luxurious primer. I only use it when I need my make up to last all day or if I am looking for a flawless base before applying my foundation. A little really goes a long way and I still have about half the tub left. This is the best primer I have ever tried as it leaves my skin feeling silky and smooth and it evens my skin tone while providing a smooth base for my foundation. You can read what I think about this primer in more detail here.

Make Up

No7 Stay Perfect Foundation - I have been using this foundation for over a year now and I have repurchased it twice already. It's the first foundation I've had that has actually been matched to my skin tone.  I was fed up of guessing my shade and getting home to find it too light or too dark and I haven't got time in the mornings to be mixing foundations! The Match Made Service is a fantastic service and it's definitely worth a try to find your perfect foundation shade. The foundation is the perfect formula for me too. As I suffer with spots, I don't want a dewy foundation as this can highlight imperfections. This foundation is matte without being chalky or cakey. It provides a medium to high coverage and lasts all day. You can read all about my experience of the Foundation Match Made Service as well as what I think of the foundation in more detail here.

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer -This is another well loved product that I have been using for well over a year and it featured in last years favourite. I have lost count of the amount of times that I have repurchased but it is a LOT! As I've said before, I don't use this under my eyes because I find it too thick to blend there but it's perfect for concealing spots and other imperfections. I use shade 1 and shade 2 in the winter and summer respectively. You can read what I think about this concealer in more detail here.

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent - Another recurring product from last year. I have actually been using this powder for a few years now and it's fantastic for setting foundation and concealer as well as taking away any shine on your face. I have slightly oily skin and I don't need to reapply but if your skin is more oily than mine you may need to carry this in your handbag. The packaging isn't great and it doesn't look too pleasing of the eye but it's a great product and for less than £5, I'm not complaining! You can read what I think about this powder in more detail here.

Topshop Lipstick in Innocent - This was first featured in my favourites in May 2013, however I bought it a couple of months before that and I was lusting after it for even longer. Altogether, I have three Topshop lipsticks and this is the latest one that I have purchased (I think it's time I purchased a new one!) The formula of these lipsticks are so creamy and moisturising and they dry matte on the lips but they're not drying at all. This shade is perfect for during the day or it can be layered up for a more intense shade in the evening.

Nails

Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in Blueberry - I chose this nail polish to feature in my favourites as it was undoubtably the most used nail polish in 2013. I actually removed the chipped remains off my nails and repainted with the same shade several times, this is something I have never done before! Obviously, I haven't used it as much in winter but it has been a perfect spring, summer and early autumn shade. I think it really compliments my skin tone and as it's quite an uncommon colour, I get lots of compliments on it from friends and family. As the name suggests, it leaves a hi-shine finish on the nails therefore you don't need a topcoat but I do recommend one if you want to prolong the wear time.

Make Up Brushes

Real Techniques Brushes - I honestly do not know how I coped before Real Techniques came into my life. I think I used to apply foundation with my fingers which is messy and meant I had to wash my hands afterwards. I have had some of my brushes for nearly 18 months and they still look brand new. They are super easy to wash; I use Johnson Baby Shampoo once a week (well I aim for once a week!) and once they are dry, they return to their original shape. I haven't experienced any fallout so in my opinion they are a great investment as I can see them lasting years. 

From left to right - Real Techniques Powder Brush, Real Techniques Blush Brush, Real Techniques Expert Face Brush, Real Techniques Foundation Brush, Real Techniques Setting Brush, Real Techniques Lash-Brow Groomer, Real Techniques Starter Set

You can read what I think about these brushes in more detail using the following links; Real Techniques Powder Brush, Real Techniques Blush Brush, Real Techniques Expert Face Brush, Real Techniques Foundation Brush, Real Techniques Setting Brush, Real Techniques Lash-Brow Groomer, Real Techniques Starter Set. 

What are your favourite products of 2013? Have any of my favourites made your list?

Rachel x 
Lost In Lipstick

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Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer - Review

Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer £26 

I've had this for several months now. I heard far too many bloggers rave about it and I just had to purchase it for myself. When using a primer to make my make up last, I prefer using a silicone based one (even if they're not great for my skin!) 

I don't use a primer on a daily basis as Monday to Friday, I'm just at work. However, if I'm going out in the evening straight after work, I want my make up to last as long as possible. I also reach for this little red tub when my skin isn't looking its best as it leaves my skin feeling smooth and silky. This primer provides the perfect base for make up as it leaves an almost flawless base. 

I managed to pick this tub up for about £20, which may appear steep when I can buy a high street primer for a quarter of the price, but a small amount really does go a long way. My one negative is that I would have liked a mini spatula as I struggle getting it out now I've used about half plus it's unhygienic to stick your finger in! 

Have you ever tried Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer? Do you use a primer in your everyday make up routine? 

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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August Empties

Soap & Glory Clean On Me Shower Gel // Tresemme Deep Cleansing Shampoo // Neal & Wolf Harmony Intensive Care Treatment // Soap & Glory Hand Food // Dove Invisible Dry Anti-Perspirant // Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer // Hugo Boss Orange Woman  // Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser // Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion // Skinetica Anti-Blemish* // Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel (sample)

Soap & Glory Clean On Me Shower Gel - I started using this in January and I've only just finished it but it's not the only shower gel I used in that time. I absolutely loved this shower gel; it smelt delicious, it was the perfect formula and it was moisturising. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it's in this years' Best Of giftset but if it's not then I will definitely be repurchasing. 

Tresemme Deep Cleansing Shampoo - I use this shampoo once a week or once every two weeks just to deep cleanse my hair. I've stopped using shampoo and conditioner with SLS in but some of the treatments I use, contain them. Eventually, I plan on never using products containing SLS but a few months ago, I went crazy and bought a lot of products so I need to use them up first. This is actually a really good shampoo and deep cleansing my hair. It removes any build up and I also use it if my hair is a little greasy. I actually have two more bottles as it was buy one, get one free a while back!

Neal & Wolf Harmony Intensive Care Treatment - I received this in a gift set one Christmas from my parents, along with a beautifully scented candle. Unfortunately, the candle burned a long time ago but due to my large haircare collection, this treatment seemed to last a lot longer. As my hair is in such bad condition, I applied this after conditioner to the ends of my hair. It provided it with an extra boost of moisture. I'm still undecided whether I liked the smell or not.  In my opinion, it smelt like glue! 

Dove Invisible Dry Anti-Perspirant - A random empty and not one I usually include in my monthly empties but I wanted to talk about it and I didn't want to write a whole blog post on deodorant! I prefer a spray deodorant as they are more hygienic than roll ons, however, long term they get on my chest and leave me with a nasty cough. Because of this, the majority of the time, I use a roll on but occasionally use a spray. I used this when it was in the regular can before it was compressed into a smaller can.  It's a fantastic idea to reduce waste and supposedly, they contain the same amount and you use the same amount as before, but I can't help think it didn't last me as long.  Does anyone else feel this way? 

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser - Another month, another Cleanse & Polish. I've actually just bought the Limited Edition Grapefruit and Patchouli one, which smells delicious. However, I am having a few issues with the pump. It isn't dispensing a measured amount and I'm having to pump it several times to get enough for my face.  A tiny bit just spurts out each time. I'm guessing I have a faulty one.  

Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion - This has been a lifesaver over Summer. I suffer from hayfever and it affects my eyes quite a bit. When I woke up in the morning, my eyes would be puffy and stuck together. I would soak two cotton wool pads and bathe my eyes for about five minutes and my eyes felt refreshed and awake afterwards. I definitely recommend Eyebright if you suffer from hayfever or something similar. It has only been a lifesaver at 6am and I've had a bad nights sleep. It helps me feel (and look) more awake!

Skinetica Anti-Blemish* - I have been very lucky that I have received two of these in goodie bags. So when this bottle ran out, I was able to continue using it. Although, it contains alcohol, it doesn't leave my face feeling dry. I use it at least once a day, sometimes twice, by sweeping a soaked cotton wool pad across my face and leaving it to dry before I apply the next step in my skincare. It only takes a minute to dry and I usually check Instagram while I'm waiting!

Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel (sample) - I received this as a sample when I ordered from Clarins online. I first heard Lily Melrose talk about it and she seemed to love it. I like the formula how it was a gel and turned into an oil but I don't think it was suitable for my skin. Clarins suggests it's suitable for all skin types, just obviously not mine. It broke me out and gave me lots of little spots under the skin. 

Soap & Glory Hand Food - I will definitely repurchase this but I secretly hope it's in a gift set this Christmas! The hand cream sinks in perfectly leaving my hands feeling soft and moisturised. It's an added bonus that it smells delicious. Soap & Glory was a brand I only discovered last Christmas and I have definitely been missing out. Every product that I've tried so far, I've loved. 

Hugo Boss Orange Woman - I bought this perfume a while back, probably about two years ago. I was out shopping with one of my best friends and we spotted it, smelt it and bought it! It's lasted me as long as it has because at one point I had five different perfumes which I rotated. I kept it away from hear and out of direct sunlight which prevents perfume from expiring earlier. I love this perfume and I will probably repurchase at somepoint. I'm not very good at describing scents so I'll leave it to the experts! 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer - No empties post would be complete without a Collection concealer. This month it's the infamous Lasting Perfection Concelaer. One of these tubes seems to last me about two months. Maybe a little less but I do use it everyday and a lot as I have lots of spots to conceal!! 

Which products have you used up this month? Have you been loving any of these products?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway. 

Everyday Make Up #4

Primer - Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch

Foundation - Lush Light Yellow Colour Supplement*

Concealer - Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light (review here)

Under Eye Concealer - Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural 

Powder - Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent (review here)

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Highlighter - Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Light

Blusher - Natural Collection Blush in Peach Melba (review here)

Eyeliner - Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black

Mascara - Seventeen Doll'd Up Mascara

Eyeshadow - MUA Undress Me Too Palette (review here)

Lipstick - Topshop Lipstick in Innocent

My last Everyday Make Up post was written back in March. A few products have changed since then so I thought I would update you with the products I'm currently reaching for everyday. 

I have been using the Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer most days since I bought it and I love it! However, some days when my pores resemble mini craters, I reach for Benefit's Porefessional. Silicone based primers are definitely my favourite as they even and smooth out my skin making it ready for make up. 

Lush Light Yellow Colour Supplement* - I received this in a Lush goodie bag when I attended the Sheffield Meet Up. I absolutely love it. It evens my skin tone and helps to conceal imperfections. I also find that it doesn't oxidise and it blends beautifully on my skin.  I do think the price is a bit steep but I will probably repurchase when I run out as it matches my skin tone so well. 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light  - This probably doesn't come as a surprise. You would probably find this concealer in every beauty blogger's make up bag. I have repurchased it over and over again and I will continue to for a long time to come. I have wrote a full review on my blog, which you can read here. 

Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural - I have been using this concealer for a while too. I use it to conceal my under eye area as I feel the Lasting Perfection Concealer is too thick for this area. It does a great job at concealer any dark circles while helping to highlight my eyes at the same time. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent  - Another firm favourite with beauty bloggers. I have wrote a full review here so you can read in more detail what I think. A perfect example of a great drugstore bargain! It helps to set my make up and make it last longer without looking cakey. 

Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte - I have been using this bronzer for about three years now and I have been saying I want a new bronzer for quite a few months. To be honest, I don't know why. Why fix something if it isn't broken? It does a great job of adding a bronzed glow to my face and it's actually great to contour with as it doesn't contain glitter. 

Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Light - I actually picked this up as a mistake as I was after the Face Contour Kit but I'm glad as I love Face Form. It includes a contouring powder, a highlighting powder and Rose Gold blush, which is beautiful. The palette is the perfect size for travelling and fits in any make up bag.  

Natural Collection Blush in Peach Melba  - I recently reviewed this blush on my blog and you can read it here. It's a great everyday blush as it leaves a natural flush of colour on the cheeks which is buildable if you fancy wearing the shade in the evening. 

Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black - I bought this shortly after it's release and I have been using it almost everyday since. It's a lovely soft eyeliner which glides on smoothly and and evenly. Perfect for beginners. 

Seventeen Doll'd Up Mascara - I cannot believe I picked this up for £2! It's an amazing mascara which creates curls, separates my lashes and gives great length and volume. I cannot sing it's praises enough. I have to make sure my lashes are dry before blinking, but it doesn't take too long. 

MUA Undress Me Too Palette  - I love MUA eyeshadow palettes, they're super cheap and high quality. I have reviewed this palette here in more detail. I love to mix and match from my palettes so each day I have a slightly different look. 

Topshop Lipstick in Innocent - Altogether, I have three Topshop lipsticks. This is a perfect daytime shade and it's so easy to wear and apply on the lips. I love the formula and the finish of all Topshop lipsticks and if you haven't tried them, what are you waiting for?

Which products are you loving this month? Do you have any recommendations for me?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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Wish List #4

Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm // Liz Earle Botanical Shine Treatment // Barry M Sequin Nail Effects Nail Paint in White // L'Oreal Micellar Solution // Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner // Liz Earle Botanical Shine Nourishing Hair Oil

I haven't done a wish list in a long time and I'm pretty skint at the moment so I thought I would share some of the items that I am lusting after! How does shopping the stash work? I think I'm going to need to do that! 

Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm - The only reason these are in my wish list is because I have fallen into the hype. I know they are only a lip balm but so is the Korres Lip Butter really, and that's amazing. I want to see what all the fuss is about. I'll only buy one, not six, but I haven't decided which one I want just yet. My choice will be made purely on  the scent! 

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Treatment - I have been using the Liz Earle Shampoo and Conditioner for about two months now and you can read what I think here. Within the Liz Earle haircare there are also treatments, this being one of them. It is for frizzy, coarse or unruly hair, which are three perfect words to describe my hair! 

Barry M Sequin Nail Effects Nail Paint in White - How pretty is this nail polish? I've seen lots of swatches online and I need it in my life! Despite knowing how difficult glitter nail polish is to remove, I still want it. Barry M have created some beautiful nail polishes lately.

L'Oreal Micellar Solution - I already have three micellar waters. Does this stop me wanting to try another one? No. I want to try it just to compare it to the others I have. Two of the ones I own are higher end or harder to get hold off (I'm talking about you Bioderma). If L'Oreal have created one that is just as good, I can save my money to spend elsewhere!

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner - I need this is my life! I keep reading more and more about the harsh effects of manual exfoliators. I need to experience just how good this one is! So much hype surrounding it.

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Nourishing Hair Oil - Another Liz Earle haircare treatment that I need in my life! This is their hair oil and it's suitable for all hair types. Oils are everywhere at the moment and not just for your hair. This one smoothes hair, protects hair from heat damage and even cuts down on the time it takes to dry your hair! 

What products are on your wish list? Have you used any of these products? Are they worth buying/the hype? What products should I add to my list?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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My Skincare Routine - Morning & Evening

I love reading blog posts and watching videos of other people skincare routines. Although it can be dangerous, as I always end up adding products to my wish list! I know my current routine will change in the near future as I want to try more Clarins skincare as I always hear beauty bloggers singing their praises. This is a routine I have been using for a long time. I have been using Liz Earle for a year and a half now. My skin is relatively normal but I suffer from hormonal acne. 

Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion // Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser // Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic // Anti-Blemish Skinetica* // La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo // Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser for Combination/Oily Skin // Liz Earle Daily Eye Repair // Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer

Recently, mainly because of hayfever, I have been waking up with puffy, swollen, itchy eyes. The first thing I reach for is Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion. It does exactly what it says on the label - soothes my eyes. It also helps me feel, and look, more awake at 6am. I already have a backup and I will continue to repurchase, it's a miracle product! 

My next step is Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish. Like a lot of people, this was my first experience of Liz Earle as my mum bought me the starter kit one Christmas and my love for the brand has grown and grown! I have previously reviewed Cleanse & Polish so I won't go into too much detail but it's a lovely cleanser and really does remove dirt and make up - the evidence is on the muslin cloth! If my skin needs a little boost and I still don't feel awake, I will soak a cotton wool pad with Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic and sweep it over my face and neck. It smells delicious and really does soothe and revitalise my skin. After this, I am ready to start the day. 

Some days I don't feel like I need Instant Boost Skin Tonic and instead I will use Anti-Blemish Skinetica*. I received this in a goodie bag that I was kindly given at a blogger event. I have been using it along with La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo and the results have been amazing. I apply Skinetica with a cotton wool pad and sweep across my face. Once it has dried, I then apply Effaclar Duo just like a moisturiser. As I mentioned in my June Favourites, I don't know if it's the combination of the two or it's one product but they have really helped my skin. After a week of using both products, I noticed a massive difference in the appearance of my skin and my spots had reduced in size and quantity. 

During the warmer months, my moisturiser of choice is Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser for Combination/oily skin. I have been using Liz Earle moisturisers for over a year now and since using them, I haven't had any dry patches of skin. I used to suffer from the occasional dry patch on my cheeks but they are now a thing of the past. However, being a beauty blogger, I read many many reviews and sooner or later, I will buy an Origins moisturiser. At the moment, the only thing stopping me right now is money and the amount of choice I have in making sure I choose the right one for me! 

I am almost 26, I'm old! I am starting to see lines around my eyes plus I don't sleep very well. I am an extremely light sleeper and I wake several times during the night. Liz Earle Daily Eye Repair helps  to repair the skin around my eyes and inject a little moisture. This is the only eye cream I have used and I do want to try others. So if you have any recommendations, leave them below. 

Before applying my make up, once my moisturiser is dry, I apply Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch. I suffer from quite large pores and this does a great job at smoothing and perfecting my skin for make up application. My skin almost feels like silk once applied. I use my fingers to apply this but I make sure they are clean. 

Evening

La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution // Simple Eye Make-Up Remover  // Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser // Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator // Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Mask // Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic Spritzer // Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic // Anti-Blemish Skinetica // La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo // Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/combination skin // Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning // Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate

I begin my evening skincare routine with La Roche-Posay Micellar Solution. I use about three small cotton wool pads to remove my face make up. I keep telling myself, I will pick up the larger cotton pads but do I remember when I'm shopping? No! As I have mentioned in previous posts, I have sensitive eyes. I haven't attempted to use Micellar water on my eyes yet but one day I will be brave. Maybe once my hayfever has died down a little. 

Next, I remove my eye make. As mentioned several times previously, I use Simple Eye Make Up Remover. I have been using this for years as it's the only remover that doesn't sting my eyes instantly! I have to wash it off almost straight away but if I do I'm fine and it doesn't sting. It does a great job at removing mascara and eyeliner. It says it removes waterproof but I don't wear waterproof mascara or eyeliner so I can't comment on those claims. Hopefully, I will be able to get away with just using Micellar Water to remove all make up so I can cut down on the number of products used. Then I use Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish to remove any last traces of make up and take the day away. If I use the make up removers and Micellar Waters, there's not much make up on my muslin cloth but sometimes there is a little. 

Twice a week, I use Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator. This is my second bottle and it really is gentle but I make sure I'm really gentle and don't scrub my face. I keep reading more and more posts about the negative features of manual exfoliators and bloggers are raving about chemical exfoliators. But if I'm honest, the word chemical scares me! I'm thinking of taking baby steps and purchasing Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner. I'm going to read a few more  reviews and make my mind up. 

After using the Exfoliator twice a week, I follow with a face mask. Usually after a bath/shower so my pores are open. At the moment I am using Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Mask. I really love it and I can tell it cleanses deep down. I leave it on for 10 minutes as suggested and then spritz Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic Spritzer before removing with one of the sponges that are supplied. However, these are fairly rough so if you have sensitive skin, maybe use a muslin cloth instead. 

I follow with Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic to close my pores and soothe my skin. Then I use Skinetica again as it's recommended that you use it morning and evening. Once dry, I follow with La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo as I do in the morning. 

I then reach for my moisturiser of choice. As the evenings have been hot, I've been using Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser but if my skin appears dry or dehydrated, I use Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/Combination skin. If my skin looks lifeless and dull I will replace my moisturiser with Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate as it just gives my skin that extra moisture boost it needs. 

During Summer, I have been using Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning every other day to give my skin an extra glow. I am very pale and I use factor 30/50 on my face. But my face doesn't really tan anyway, I just get lots of freckles. So I apply this to a cotton wool pad and sweep it over my face and neck. It comes on as a beautiful colour in the morning and it's not too obvious that I have fake tanned my face. If you're scared of applying fake tan to your face. I definitely recommend this. 

What are your staple skincare products? Do you have any recommendations for me to try next? Particularly moisturisers, exfoliators and face masks.

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick 

April 2013 Favourites

Hi girls,

May has been such a busy month for me so far! I almost didn't post this at all because it's so late in the month. But I still wanted to share a few products that I have been loving with you. During the month of April, there were lots of products that I loved using. Luckily for you, I managed to narrow it down to just six products!

Soap & Glory Clean On Me Shower Gel - I started using this shower gel in December. I don't use it everyday so I'm about halfway through. The scent is amazing. It contains natural mandarin peel extract and as an added bonus, it contains built in body lotion. My skin is super soft after using it and my feet, which are usually dry and cracked, are looking a lot better! My skin isn't really dry on my body but if you suffered from dry skin, you'll probably need to use a moisturiser as well. I want to get into the habit of using one but I always forget. Using this shower gel, for me, is the lazy way out!

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning - I saw this raved about on blogs and YouTube so much, that I caved and purchased it. I must admit that I was worried at first - I am quite pale and I didn't want to appear too tanned especially with make up on top. However, I was pleasantly happy when my face just looked healthy and radiant. Another concern, as with any self tan product, was the smell. As I am pale, I only need to apply every few days. Because of this, the colour, and the smell, doesn't build up too much. It's very subtle and just what I like. I'm looking forward to using this in summer as my face doesn't really tan where as the rest of my body does (a little bit). 

Dove Nourishing Oil Care Repair Mask - I saw this on a couple of blog posts and thought it would be worth a try as my hair is dry and damaged. I love the texture of the mask and once I have rinsed it out, after about 5 minutes, my hair feels smooth and silky. I still use conditioner before I apply the mask as my hair is quite damaged from years of heat and colour but if your hair isn't as dry, you might want to skip conditioner. 

Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquer in Celestial - A couple of months ago, I purchased two Rimmel Apocalips. I picked up Nova and Celestial. Celestial is definitely my favourite of the two and suits me better for daytime wear over Nova. If you've been hiding under a rock for a few months and haven't heard of the Apocalips, they're a new(ish) lip product from Rimmel, which is a hybrid between lipstick and lip gloss. The colour and lasting quality is that of a lipstick and the shine is that of a lip gloss without being sticky. They are a little bit moisturising as well. 

Collection Cream Puff Lip Cream - As I mentioned in my haul post, I saw Llymlrs mention this a few times on her blog and in her videos. It was only £2.99 and I didn't have high expectations to be honest but I was blown away. The colour is beautiful and it lasts a few hours on the lips. It applies like a lipgloss but dries matte like a lipstick while still being moisturising.  I will definitely continue buying this product when it runs out and I might have to purchase some of the other shades!

Natural Collection Blushed Cheeks in Peach Melba - This is a product that impresses Lily Pebbles so it must be good! It's only £1.99 and the packaging isn't great but the actual blusher is beautiful. Peach Melba is a beautiful pinky peach shade and shows up as a beautiful, natural looking blush on my cheeks. I have been reaching for this almost every single day. The only improvement I would make is to make the pot bigger so my Real Techniques Blush Brush fits in easier!

What have been your favourite products this month? Have any of your favourites made my list?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

February/March 2013 Favourites

Hi lovelies!

I know, I know it's nearly April and I'm just getting round to posting my February Favourites! I have no idea what happened. I took these photos early in March and they've just been waiting on my camera. As it's nearly April and I'm still using these products on a regular basis, this is going to be my February/March Favourites. I've been trying not to spend as much money on make up and beauty products lately so I haven't got any new favourites for March. 

MUA Heaven & Earth Eye Shadow Palette - This has quickly become my favourite MUA palette. However, that may all change soon, as I want the Undress Me Too palette! I'm a neutral girl through and through so this palette is perfect for me. As I said in my review, I am wearing shimmer eye shadows more often now where as I used to only reach for matte shades. You can see some closer photos and swatches in my review. You can purchase this palette from Superdrug in store or MUA online or Superdrug online. This palette is a bargain at £4 as the shadows are great quality and they are highly pigmented.

LUSH Bubblegum Lip Scrub - If you're anything like me, the cold weather has left your lips feeling dry and chapped. My solution - gently exfoliate your lips with LUSH bubblegum lip scrub before slapping tons of lip balm on every evening before bed. It works a treat and smells (and tastes) delicious! My lips are left feeling soft and moisturised (from the lip balm) the next day, ready for some lipstick. You can buy it in stores or online, priced at £5.25.

Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch - This is a product that was on my wishlist for months and months. I wasn't sure I could justify £26 for such a small pot but I got my hands on a 1 ml sample and I was hooked!  It leaves my skin feeling smooth and soft, which is the perfect base for my foundation. It does a fairly good job at hiding my pores but some days they are massive and I need some cement!!! Luckily, after Christmas the Clarins website was holding a sale which included the Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch. They were offering the standard 50 ml pot and a 30 ml tube of Beauty Flash Balm for £17.50. Before I knew it, I was checking out and selecting my three free samples to try (which, by the way Clarins, is an amazing idea as I now have more Clarins items on my wishlist)!

Collection Colour Lash All Day Colour Mascara in Clear - I have been wanting a gel to set my eyebrows for a long time. There is a wax in the MUA Brow Kit, which I use, but I hate how I have to use my fingers to apply it and there isn't a lot of it in the kit. I have seen that a few people use clear mascara to set their brows. So when I spotted this in Superdrug for £1.99, I had to try it. I'm actually liking it so far and I will definitely repurchase it. It's not actually clear any more as the powder that I use to fill my eyebrows has come off on the brush so it looks a bit disgusting! It also includes protein and I have noticed my eyebrows grow more since I started to use it. So if you're looking to grow your brows, or lashes, I definitely recommend it.

Sleek Face Form Contouring and Blush Palette in Light - I actually wanted to pick up the Sleek Face Contour Kit, which is £6.49 as I had seen so many people rant and rave about it. Every time I popped in Superdrug, it was sold out. Then I spotted Face Form, which includes a contour shade, a highlight and a blush for £10. The blush looked really pretty so I couldn't resist and bought this instead. I'm so glad I did. I use all three of the products and it's the perfect palette for travelling with. 

Avon Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick in Pout - This is the first Avon lipstick I have purchased and so far I love it! The shade is perfect and the formulation is creamy and moisturising. Application is so easy and effortless. I will definitely be purchasing more shades from Avon, I just haven't decided which ones yet! Any recommendations? The RRP of these are £7 but Avon often have offers on so keep your eyes open. I think I got this for £2.49 or £3.49. 

What have been your favourite products this month? Have any of your favourites made my list?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

Everyday Make Up #3

Primer - Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch

Foundation -  No7 Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico (review here)

Concealer - Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light (review here)

Powder - Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent (review here)

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Blusher - Benefit Dandelion

Highlighter - MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer

Eyeliner - Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black

Mascara - Liz Earle Lash Definition Smudgeproof Mascara in Black

Eye Shadow - MUA Heaven & Earth Eye Shadow Palette

Lipstick - AVON Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick in Pout

My last Everyday Make Up post was way back in November before I moved house! I think since the move I forgot about these posts until I saw them in my blogging notebook. A few items have changed since but some have stayed the same since November. My foundation, concealer, powder and bronzer are all the same and I have been using these products for quite a few months now.

I'm almost out of foundation and I think I want to try something different next. I was thinking about the Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation as so many bloggers say it's a great drugstore foundation but the fact that I would have to select the shade myself scares me. I'll get home and it will totally be the wrong shade! Probably like I've been tango'd! So does anyone know if Rimmel have a similar shade to No7 Calico? That would be a massive help! Or I was thinking I would stick with No7 but get another foundation match done in early summer as my skin tone may have changed since I last had it done! Aahhh decisions, decisions! I have wrote a review of the No7 Stay Perfect Foundation, which you can read here.

Obviously, I am still using Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer as it's amazing. However, I have been using light for so long but I much prefer natural. It suits my skin tone much better. You can read what I think in more detail here.

My powder choice is still Rimmel Stay Matte as it's perfect and doesn't cake. I'm not going to change something that isn't broken! You can read what I think in depth here.

As you can see, I'm still using the same bronzer as I was back in November (and September)! I just cannot find one that I like more. I almost fell for NARS Laguna because of all the hype surrounding it. I even went to Selfridges to purchase it but I just decided it wasn't for me. When I lightly swatched it on my hand, I could see glitter/shimmer. Even though many people said you couldn't see it when it was on your face, I didn't want to take the chance. So I'm still using the same bronzer, that I have been wearing for about three years! 

A new addition into my make up routine is the Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer. It has a steep price tag but I think it's worth every penny. It also helps that I got it for £17.50 as it was in a set on sale on the Clarins website after Christmas. Bonus! I don't technically wear this everyday as I don't wear it for work but I do wear it for all other occasions. It feels so velvety and smooth as I apply it and it leaves my face feeling and looking flawless. It provides the perfect base for my foundation and since using it I have noticed how much better my foundation looks. The only negative I have is that some days it doesn't cover all my pores but I do have relatively large pores! 

A blusher I'm reaching for more and more is Benefit Dandelion. As spring is fast approaching, I think it's the perfect shade on my skin tone to give me a healthy, spring time glow. I pair this with MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer, which I actually use as a highlighter. I use my Real Techniques Setting brush to apply it to the top of my cheekbones and my brow bone. If I want extra highlight to add more definition to my face, then I also apply it to the middle of my nose, my cupid's bow and my forehead.

In December, I received the Liz Earle Lash Definition Smudgeproof Mascara as a freebie in the monthly essentials. I have been using it ever since and I absolutely love it. No matter how much I apply it doesn't clump my lashes and it adds length and volume. Previously, I was using the Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara, which I love as well, but I find I find it can clump, especially in the evening when I apply more for greater volume and length.

My eyeliner of choice has been the Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner. I bought this shortly after it was released and I have been using it ever since. I only apply eyeliner to my waterline as I don't have a steady hand to apply eyeliner above my upper lash line. I wish I could! As I apply it to my waterline, most eyeliners have a tendency to wear off quickly. I find Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner lasts a lot longer and best of all it doesn't run!

Last month, I purchased the popular MUA Heaven & Earth Palette. I absolutely love my Undressed palette and I have hit pan on a few shades but I also wanted to give Heaven & Earth a try. At the moment in time, I couldn't choose a favourite but I am loving using both of them. They both have shimmer and matte shades and include shades suitable for day and evening wear.

Another product I purchased last month was AVON Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick in Pout. I bought it because it was half price in the AVON catalogue and I thought the shade looked perfect. I haven't tried an AVON lipstick before and I didn't have chance to swatch it so I took a chance. I was so lucky as I absolutely love the shade. It's my lips but better and is my 'go to' lipstick for daytime. It has definitely made me want to try more AVON lipsticks. The formula is so moisturising and it's just perfect!

Which products are you loving this month? Do you have any recommendations for me?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick