March Empties

L'Oreal Skin Perfection Micellar Solution // Simple Eye Make Up Remover // Vichy Normaderm Purifying Pore-tightening Lotion // Evo The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask // The Body Shop Shea Shower Cream // Impulse Body Spray in Tease // Rimmel Sun Shimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte // Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer // Collection Colour Lash Mascara in Clear // Atrixo Enriched Hand Cream

L'Oreal Skin Perfection Micellar Solution - I picked this up shortly after it first came out but didn't get around to using it for a while as I had another Micellar Water on the go. I didn't dislike it but I didn't love it either. I have tried several different brands of Micellar Water and my favourite is definitely Bioderma Sebium H2O Micelle Solution. One thing I actually hated about this product is that far too much came out on my cotton wool pad which is a massive waste. There needs to be some kind of filter. I recently picked up Garnier's Micellar Water so I will let you know what I think of that. 

Simple Eye Make Up Remover - Years and years of repurchasing. I think maybe I should take out shares in Simple - I pick a new one up every month! If it's not broken, why fix it or however the saying goes! This does the job and it actually does a darn good job or removing mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow with miminal irritation to my sensitive eyes. 

Vichy Normaderm Purifying Pore-tightening Lotion - Along with Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel, I picked up this toner. I used them together morning and evening for about two months, until they ran out. I know it takes a while for your skin to 'change' but after two months I was expecting to see some kind of difference but I didn't. My skin didn't change at all. Not in texture. Not in the amount of spots I had. Not in appearance (pores). Nothing. Maybe it's a positive that my skin didn't get worse but I want my skincare to improve my skin. 

Evo The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask - Aimed at dry, frizzy and coloured treated hair, this is the perfect mask for my hair. I used this mask about once a week and applied it to the ends of my hair, leaving it on for about 5 minutes before rinsing. It left my hair feeling smooth, conditioned and moisturised without weighing it down. The mask is also enriched with UV protectors which mean your hair is protected in the harsh sunlight. This will keep your hair feeling conditioned and healthy while preventing your colour from fading. Bonus! I may repurchase this for the warmer summer months to protect my hair, especially in Mexico!

The Body Shop Shea Shower Cream - I used to shop at The Body Shop loads when I was a teenager but for no reason what so ever, I stopped shopping there. Recently, I have fallen in love again. The Shea range is a classic and rightly so. The scent is pleasant but not too overpowering. This shower cream is soap free but it still lathers enough for anybody that enjoys a good lather in the shower! As this is a cream, rather than a gel, it is extremely moisturising. I didn't feel the need to moisturise after showering but I don't suffer from dry skin. 

Impulse Body Spray in Tease - I'm not sure I can add anything else about this body spray that I've not already said in a previous empties post. I use one of these every month as they're cheap and cheerful! I like the scent and it's perfect to just throw in my handbag. As I've mentioned previously, I use it for work as I work in a school and I don't want to waste my perfume. 

Rimmel Sun Shimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte - I have been using this bronzer for years and years. There is nothing wrong with it; it does the job. I will probably repurchase the light matte version again in the future but for now, the time has come for a change! More on the new contender in a future blog post but up to now, I do prefer it. Sometimes, the Rimmel bronzer can appear 'dirty' if I accidentally put too much on where as my new bronzer doesn't.  

Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer - As I've said before, I use this as an under eye concealer to hide an dark circles and it helps to brighten my eye area and make me look more alert! I prefer using this as an under eye concealer than the Lasting Perfection concealer as it is light and easy to blend. I find the Lasting Perfection Concealer to thick for under the eye and it can crease.

Collection Colour Lash Mascara in Clear - This is a clear mascara but it does a fantastic job of being my eyebrow gel and it's only £1.99! I only keep mine for two months as it looks disgusting and the thought of using it any longer makes me feel sick! It claims to contain proteins which I presume would help thicken and lengthen your eyelashes when used as a mascara. My eyebrows were already pretty wild and the past few months they have become out of control! I'm having to have them waxed more often! So if you're looking to grow your eyebrows or eyelashes, I definitely recommend it!

Atrixo Enriched Hand Cream - Have I ever mentioned that I am obsessed with hand cream?! I used to purchase this hand cream from Bodycare when I was at uni as it was cheap and is a pretty good hand cream. Since leaving uni (almost 5 years ago!!! WHAT?!) I haven't shopped in Bodycare as there isn't one local but I spotted it on offer in Boots/Superdrug one week and bought one for nostalgic reasons. It's a great hand cream which nourishes your hands without being greasy. 

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

Rachel x 

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January Empties

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Shampoo // Liz Earle Botanical Shine Conditioner for Dry/Damaged Hair // La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution // Simple Eye Make Up Remover // Skinetica Anti-Blemish* // Impluse Body Spray in Tease // Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/Combination Skin // Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer // Collection Colour Lash All Day Mascara in Clear // Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder // 

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Shampoo - This is my second bottle and I would definitely repurchase. I am currently trying out the L'Oreal Ever Sleek range but if that doesn't live up to the high expectations set by Liz Earle hair care, I will be repurchasing. I love everything about this shampoo from the smell to the way it makes my hair feel. It doesn't contain any nasty chemicals so I know it is only good for my hair. I don't have any problems with it lathering up but if I feel like it isn't creating a lather, I just add more water rather than shampoo.

Liz Earle Botanical Shine Conditioner for Dry/Damaged Hair - I also love the conditioner from Liz Earle. It comes in three different formulas so you can tailor it to your hair's needs. I use the dry and damaged version as my hair is so dry and damaged from years of heat and colour. I have reviewed the shampoo and conditioner in full on my blog, you can read it here.

La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution - I have tried several different Micellar Waters now. I like quite a few products from La Roche-Posay so I thought I would give it a try. I didn't dislike the product but I didn't love it either. I didn't feel it was worth the money as I had used drugstore versions that were just as good. La Roche-Posay's offering to the Micellar Water craze costs £11.50, which is quite expensive considering I wasn't wowed by the product. I don't think I would repurchased this again as I am in love with the Bioderma Sebium H2O Micelle Solution! 

Simple Eye Make Up Remover - As Micellar Water is fairly expensive, I continue to buy Simple Eye Make Up Remover to remove my eye make up (obviously!) as it only costs around 3 pounds where as my Bioderma Micellar Water costs about £10 so I don't want to waste it on my eyes. Plus my eyes are super sensitive and I know that this make up remover doesn't sting them that much. 

Skinetica Anti-Blemish* - I think this is my second bottle of Skinetica and I quite like the stuff. It doesn't sting and it doesn't break me out. I would say quite the opposite and it helps to clear up my spots. It does contain alcohol but I never found it to be drying. Maybe if you have dry skin to start with just be cautious. 

Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/Combination Skin - I love Liz Earle moisturisers. I have used this one along with the light version for oily/combination skin. I saved this one for my evening skincare routine so my skin had an extra boost of moisture overnight. The scent is lovely but not too strong if you're sensitive to scents. 

Impluse Body Spray in Tease - Still my chosen body spray for work. I do feel like I'm too old to still use body spray but it's always on offer for 99p and why waste my perfume at work when I work with children?! Does anyone else still use body spray over the age of 25? I love the scent of this and it actually lasts a fair amount of time for a body spray. 

Collection Colour Lash All Day Mascara in Clear - My £1.99 brow gel! It does the trick and it doesn't make my eyebrows crispy! I apply a little to each brow and go over with a brow comb which removes any excess. It keeps my stray eyebrows in place all day long. 

Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer - As I find Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer too thick for under my eyes, this is my concealer of choice. I use the lightest shade and it gives an instant boost to my eye area. It helps to cover dark circles and adds dimension to my face by illuminating the eyes. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder - I suffer from oily skin so I like to apply a powder to set my make up and keep the shine away. This does the job perfectly at a bargain price! My skin isn't overly oily so I don't need to reapply throughout the day but it does keep my skin looking matte for several hours. 

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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December Empties

Trevor Sorbie Beautifully Straightened Protect, Flatten and Shine Spray // Batiste Dry Shampoo in Fresh // Sanctuary Spa Body Wash // Impulse Body Spray in Tease // Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser // Simple Eye Make Up Remover // Bioderma Sebium H2O Micelle Solution // Moroccanoil Treatment* // Rimmel Sun Shimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte // Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer // Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara in Black // Sure Clear Pure Crystal Anti-Perspirant

Trevor Sorbie Beautifully Straightened Protect, Flatten and Shine Spray - I used this to protect my hair when straightening it. I must admit though I'm not a fan. Although I have dry hair, I had to be careful as too much product left my hair feeling greasy. I can't say it left my hair looking shiny either but that may be because my hair is really dry. I'm so glad this is finally finished. I won't be purchasing it again. 

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Fresh - Dry Shampoo is fantastic for those days when you don't have quite enough time to wash your hair. I know a lot of people use dry shampoo to give them volume but as my hair is very thick, volume is not something I lack! This scent is quite nice but my favourite is definitely Tropical. I have only used Batiste Dry Shampoo so I cannot compare it to other brands but it works for me and it's cheap so I will continue to purchase. 

Sanctuary Spa Body Wash - I think I received this in a gift set last Christmas! I have that many bath and body products that I only just got round to using it up. Without using a body puff or something, I found it doesn't lather up very well but it's lovely and moisturising as it contains little beads of moisture throughout. I would use this again as I love the scent of Sanctuary products but I wouldn't go out tomorrow and repurchase as I have a tonne on shower gel! 

Impulse Body Spray in Tease - Another can of Tease body spray! This continues to be my favourite body spray which I just throw into my handbag as it's perfect for work. I've hardly used it since being off work though as I've opted for my favourite perfumes instead. 

Sure Clear Pure Crystal Anti-Perspirant - A boring product to include in my empties, I know! But it's a necessity. This has an inoffensive scent and has been perfect at not leaving any white marks on my clothes. I always opt for deodorant that doesn't leave white marks as that can be embarrassing and rather annoying when you get white marks all over your favourite black dress! I prefer spray deodorants as they dry quicker but last year I had a cough for months which I couldn't get rid of. As soon as I stopped using spray deodorant, the cough went!  

Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser - I haven't used this for about a month now as I ran out early December. I am actually missing how it felt on my face and that Liz Earle moisturiser smell. I may have to repurchase just for those reasons! This was my day moisturiser and I am running out of my current one so this may be back in my skincare routine soon! 

Simple Eye Make Up Remover - I have been using this eye make up remover for years! It's the only one I've found which doesn't sting my eyes too much but it does a little. A while back I tried my Bioderma (below) to remove my eye make up and it did the job without stinging my eyes. I don't know why the fear was there. I might repurchase Bioderma again and cut down on using two products when I can just use one. 

Bioderma Sebium H2O Micelle Solution - Everybody raves about Bioderma and I couldn't wait to try it for myself. I opted for the Sebium version as I have oily skin and I was not disappointed. I will definitely be repurchasing. It left my skin feeling clean pre-cleanse and I actually really liked the smell. It's a bonus that it works to remove eye make up without stinging my eyes. Pass me my next bottle please!  

Moroccanoil Treatment* - This is actually one of my favourite products for 2013. I started using it in Summer and my hair has never been so healthy. I received the 100ml bottle with a pump for Christmas and I'm so happy that I can continue to nourish my hair. It's brilliant as it actually cuts down on drying time, which for someone with long, thick, curly hair, is a lifesaver! 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer - Another 2013 favourite and for a lot of people I can guess. It's provides great coverage, lasts all day (may just need reapplying if you're going out after work) and is a bargain at less than £5! I will continue to repurchase and I actually have about 4 backups for when I run out! 

Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara in Black - This is one of my favourite mascaras that I have tried. It gives great length, gives a great curl and doesn't clump. I have quite a few mascaras that I want to use before repurchasing anymore but I will definitely re buy this one again. Rimmel do a version with a curved brush, which I have tried, but I wasn't a fan. I couldn't get into the corners of my eyes and it wasn't as good for the bottom lashes so I will stick to the straight wand.

Rimmel Sun Shimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte - Another product that I have used for years and years. It does the job but it's nothing special. I always pick up the light matte version as I'm pale and as I sometimes use it all over my face, I don't want glitter everywhere. I recently purchased The Body Shop Honey Bronzer which I am going to give a try and we'll see which one wins! 

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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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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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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July Empties

Herbal Essences Smooth & Soft Sensuously Smooth Shampoo // Advance Techniques Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner // Batiste Dry Shampoo Tropical // Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator // Anti-blemish Skinetica // La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo // Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser // Impulse Tease Body Fragrance Spray // Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer // Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder

Herbal Essences Smooth & Soft Sensuously Smooth Shampoo & Advance Techniques Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner - As I have mentioned in previous posts, I'm on a mission to improve my hair. I think my wedding, a year today, has kicked me into gear but also because I'm sick of my own hair and how unhealthy it is. I only want to use shampoo and conditioners which have no nasties in them from now on but I didn't want to waste all the other shampoo and conditioners I had left. The shampoo has a delicious scent and made my hair feel smooth, soft and silky (but that is what the harsh chemicals are supposed to do!) When I first used this conditioner a year ago  I loved it but I wasn't as clued up about ingredients then. I'm not an expert now but I just don't want to wash my hair in parabens and sulfates. 

Batiste Dry Shampoo Tropical - I love Batiste dry shampoo and out of all of the scents I have tried, this is definitely my favorite. It's just so fresh and clean. I have already repurchased this one but I have a few different scents in my collection now. I quite like the blonde one as it does a great job of disguising my roots! I don't use this on a daily basis - it is for emergencies only! My hair is pretty damaged and dry so I only wash it twice a week, anymore and it will become more damaged. However, some days it can be greasier than others (probably down to sulfates and chemicals in my shampoo and conditioner) and if I don't get the chance to wash it, I'll just give it a quick refresh and I'm good to go. (Please note, this is only on occasions and I'm not disgusting! A can of this lasts me forever!)

Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator - I have already repurchased this as it really is gentle on my face and doesn't do any damage to my skin. I try and use it twice a week, usually before a face mask, to remove any dead skin cells. A lot of people are hating on the manual exfoliators these days but this one is full of natural ingredients and it contains fine jojoba beads which gently buff away the dead skin cells. The Liz Earle website states it is not suitable for sensitive skin so please bare that in mind. Sometimes I mix it with my Cleanse & Polish for an even gentler exfoliation.  

Anti-blemish Skinetica* - I received this in a goodie bag from a blogger event that I attended. It contains no harsh chemicals and the active ingredient is a highly sophisticated quaternary Ammonium Chloride compound combined with a Sylyl base. (How scientific does that sound?!) It does contain ethyl alcohol but I haven't found it to be drying on the skin. I applied this twice a day, morning and night before my moisturiser and I saw a difference when using it alongside La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo - I caved into the hype surrounding this despite some people saying it did nothing for them or breaking them out, never the less, I purchased it. I have already repurchased it as I was amazed at the difference in my skin. The week or so between, before I managed to repurchase, my skin had returned to it's usual horrible self. This was confirmation enough that I needed to repurchase this baby. I originally purchased this in Boots while it was on 3 for 2 offer, however, I repurchased it from escentual.com when they had 20% off. So it's worth keeping your eyes peeled for offers.

Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser - I have been using this moisturiser for about a year now and I have repurchased over and over again. In the Winter, I use this moisturiser in the morning under my make up but opt for Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/Combination skin at night. Throughout July, we have experienced some extremely hot days and I have been applying the light moisturiser morning and night. It is a lovely light moisturiser, as the name suggests, which is easily absorbed and doesn't clog pores. You can read my review here. 

Impulse Tease Body Fragrance Spray - Another repurchase of mine. Body spray is something I wear on a daily basis when the occasion doesn't warrant perfume such as work (I work in a school) and popping to the supermarket. This scent is my favourite impulse fragrance and I always pop a few in my basket when they are on special offer for 99p!

Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer - This concealer isn't as well loved in the 'blogosphere' than the Lasting Perfection concealer but I have been using it for just as long. I use this concealer under my eyes as I find the Lasting Perfection a little to thick for my delicate eye area. This one is illuminating so it doubles as a highlight and it is super easy to blend under the eyes. I find it doesn't crease either but I do set it with powder. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder - I love this powder and so do many other beauty bloggers. I get the shade transparent as I just want it to set my foundation/concealer and make my face matte. I use bronzer and blusher to add colour where I want it. It doesn't appear too chalky on the face and it mattifies my foundation. My only negative is the packaging - it isn't very sturdy which makes transporting it impossible. You can read what I think more in depth by reading my review. 

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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May Empties

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser - This will come as no surprise. I have been using Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish for a year and a half now. Besides my hormonal acne, my skin is lovely. The texture and appearance of my skin is clear and smooth. I just have the odd areas of acne, which is really getting to me but that's another story. 

Cath Kidston Wild Rose Hand Cream - I got this in a gift set, either for my birthday or Christmas, I can't remember which. I love most of the Cath Kidston prints so someone decided the gift set would make a good present. They were right. It included this hand cream, a cuticle cream and a nail file. I absolutely loved using the hand cream. It smells delicious - wild roses - and absorbs quickly without being sticky or wet. I would definitely repurchase again, I know they do bigger tubes in store. 

Charlie Pink Body Fragrance Spray - I usually just stick with my Impulse body spray but I think this was only 99p so I picked it up. It has been in my handbag for a few months just in case I ever needed a quick fragrance boost! I like the scent but when I think of Charlie purfume, I think if teenagers. To be honest, it's the same with Impulse but I love Tease to much to stop buying it! 

Johnson & Johnson Baby Shampoo - No I don't have a baby and no I don't wash my hair with baby shampoo. I use it to deep clean my make up brushes. A lot of people recommend baby shampoo to clean make up brushes as it's gentle and it conditions at the same time. I don't get any bristles falling out (I use Real Technique brushes) and my brushes feel like new again. I try to deep clean my brushes once and week, if I remember I do! I don't spot clean though so I feel like maybe I should deep clean them twice a week! How often do you clean your brushes? 

Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara - I have been using this mascara for years and years but I haven't bought another since this one. I have been using the Liz Earle one ever since I got it and it is definitely my new favourite mascara. However before I buy a new mascara, I have quite a few that I need to use first. It shouldn't take me too long as mascaras don't last very long. I haven't been able to wear mascara for the last two days because of stupid hayfever! My eyes have just been too sore to even go there! I love Summer but hayfever is one thing that really gets on my nerves! 

Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer - I've lost count of how many of these I have gone through. It's been a fair few though! I use it as an under eye concealer (and I use Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer on my spots and blemishes). It's not too thick for the eye area and blends in nicely using a brush or my fingers. I either buy shade 1 or 2. While my face is quite pale, shade 1 is definitely better. Whilst shade 2 is best for when I have a tan, natural or not!

Origins Out Of Trouble Mask (sample) - I asked for this sample whilst in the Origins store in Boots, Manchester. I managed  to get 2 or 3 uses from this pot, which is a pretty generous sample. I really liked the face mask and I enjoyed using it. I am thinking about purchasing it but I am hoping to book in for a complimentary facial, if they still do them, and I will make sure that it is the right mask for my skin type before actually repurchasing it.

Liz Earle Daily Eye Repair - I purchased this eye cream quite a few months ago and this tiny little tube has lasted a long time. I have already repurchased it as I love using it so much. It is so moisturising on the eye area and refreshing in the morning. I apply it after moisturising and I don't have to wait long before it has sunk in and I'm ready to apply my make up. It's perfect for me as I haven't got time to sit around and wait in the morning. (I already waste enough time catching up on Bloglovin' and YouTube!)

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

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

May 2013 Favourites

Apologies for not posting my weekly Instagram update on Monday. I was on the laptop, making the mosaic image, when it died. We cannot get it to charge again so that means no update. There has been a few problems with it charging recently and we took it to a computer repair shop. The man replaced a part and for a couple of days, it worked perfectly. Now it has no battery left and will not charge. Luckily, I had already formatted this post on the laptop and it was just a case of typing up what I think of each product pictured above, which are obviously positives as they are my May favourites! Anyway enough rambling... On to the post!

Soap & Glory Hand Food Hand Cream - This was included in the Soap & Glory Best Of All Christmas gift set. Beforehand, I had never used any Soap & Glory products but I will definitely be repurchasing some of the products in the future and Hand Food is definitely one of them. I know hand cream is a boring favourite but I honestly cannot go anywhere without it. My friend even got me some one Christmas as a Secret Santa! This hand cream is the perfect texture, it smells amazing and it absorbes really quickly. It keeps my hands and nails moisturised until I next wash them.

Rimmel Wake Me Up Make Up Foundation - As I said in a previous post, I wasn't going to get this foundation as I wasn't a fan of the dewy look. However, when I saw it on offer for £4.99, I couldn't resist. I have been using it everyday since. It really does wake me up  in the morning and stops my face from looking puffy at 6am! A bonus is the smell. I have never come across a foundation that smells so nice! At the moment the shade is a little too dark for me but it's summer so it's ok. I will definitely keep my eyes out for the offer again so I can stock up! 

Vo5 Miracle Concentrate Elixir with Argan Oil - I'm about half way through this already and I only use two pippets in my hair. I have noticed that if I apply it to my roots, it makes them greasy. Therefore, I stick to the ends and gently comb through before styling. It helps to detangle my hair and smooths down any frizz. It's just a shame I can't use it on my roots as that's where most of my frizz is! 

MUA Undress Me Too Palette - I have posted a review of this palette on my blog. Altogether, I have four MUA palettes. The quality and pigmentation of the eyeshadows are amazing considering the low price of them. I continue to use all four, sometimes together picking and choosing shades to mix and match. Undress Me Too is a perfect dupe for Urban Decay Naked 2. Personally, I haven't used UD but if you search for comparison posts, the shades and swatches are so alike. When you compare the prices - £36 for UD and £4 for MUA, I know which I'd choose if I was you!  

SEVENTEEN Doll'd Up Mascara - I'll be honest, I only picked this up from Boots because I had a voucher. The voucher allowed me to get the mascara for £2. £2! It would be rude not to! I wasn't looking for a new mascara but I am so glad I've got it now. The wand is plastic, which I'd never used before but I am now a fan! The brush is also curved, which allows you to give your lashes a lovely curl. The mascara claims to give curl for 24 hours. I'm not sure how true this is as I don't leave my mascara on that long but for the time mine is on, I definitely have a beautiful curl. 

Topshop Lipstick in Innocent - I have been wanting this lipstick for ages. For some reason, I would swatch it in Topshop but not purchase it! However one day, I decided to treat myself and I picked it up! I love Topshop lipsticks. The formula is so creamy and moisturising and they dry semi matte. I have three in my collection and this is definitely my new favourite lipstick. The shade is perfect during the day with just one application or it can be layered up for a perfect evening shade. 

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

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