Sunday 29 November 2015

Speed Review: Dr Nick Lowe The Secret Is Out Lifting Super Serum



I use a serum as a "booster" step in my daily skincare regime, after cleansing but before moisturising and I've recently been using Dr Nick Lowe The Secret is Out Lifting Super Serum, which is designed to smooth, firm & hydrate skin. 

On first impressions, I liked the packaging. The weighty, frosted glass bottle may not be the most practical for travel but it looked and felt relatively high end. I appreciated the functionality of the pump dispenser, which releases just the right amount of product with no wastage. I also liked that the turquoise bottle was sufficiently transparent to be able to tell how much product was remaining.

Despite containing Acai & Goji berries, these ingredients aren't reflected in the scent. I hated the chemical fragrance and didn't find the serum enjoyable to use for this reason. Having said that, it wasn't noticeable on skin following application. 

The gel texture meant that the serum was easy to smooth onto skin and it absorbed quickly. The texture reminded me of a primer and I wasn't surprised to see silicones on the ingredients list. It worked well under makeup. 

Unfortunately, Dr Nick Lowe The Secret Is Out Lifting Super Serum didn't feel particularly nourishing and for this reason, I'd be unlikely to repurchase. Hydrating benefits are one of the main things I look for when choosing a serum as I feel that this helps to address my dehydrated skin's needs. I'd prefer to use a serum with a milky texture, as I generally find these to be more hydrating. 

Dr Nick Lowe The Secret Is Out Lifting Super Serum costs £25.99 for 30ml.



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Thursday 5 November 2015

Speed Review: Blend Collective Rich Restoring Hand Cream (Unwinding Sandalwood & Frankincense)



Blend Collective is a brand which has always appealed to me, with the cool yet chic packaging which features bold magazine-style font as part of the design, standing out when I've seen the products on shop shelves. As such, when I met with one of the founders of the natural British brand and she gifted me the Rich Restoring Hand Cream in Unwinding Sandalwood & Frankincense, I was excited to try it.

As well as being aesthetically pleasing, the tube packaging is also functional. I liked that, rather than having a screw top or flip lid, the silver cap is simply twisted to open. Admittedly, some people may find this messy but I liked that it avoided wastage. What's more, the 75ml size means that it's travel friendly.

The cream itself has a relatively thick texture and a pale yellow colour. It is easily absorbed, however, it's worth bearing in mind that a little goes a long way. If you use a generous amount, a greasy residue is left albeit only for a short time.

The scent, which lingers on skin, wasn't to my personal liking. The musty, botanical blend which includes sandalwood, frankincense, cedarwood, neroli, clary sage, lavendar and patchouli reminded me of 1970s hippy fragrances. However, the brand does also feature hand creams as part of their Enlivening (Sicilian lemon, lime, May Chang and myrtle) and Balancing (star jasmine, geranium, vetiver, rose and black cherry) ranges.

That said, the blend of ingredients including shea butter, cacoa butter, aloe juice and seabuckthorn oils makes for a nourishing formula which leaves hands feeling hydrated and wonderfully conditioned.

At £15 for 75ml, I feel as though Blend Collective Rich Restoring Hand Cream is ever so slightly overpriced & I wouldn't repurchase but nonetheless, there's something about the brand which continues to appeal to me so I may investigate other products in future.

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Tuesday 3 November 2015

Speed Review: Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash

 

 
Soap & Glory is one of my favourite bodycare brands and I don't think that I'm alone as I'm yet to come across someone who doesn't like the affordable brand. In particular, I adore some of their body scrubs and have previously written a rave review of Sugar Crush Body Scrub (click here to read) so I was excited to try the Body Wash from the same line.
 
The packaging is in keeping with the brand's fun image thanks to the pink colour of the plastic bottle and bold use of font. Despite being pink, the bottle is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to tell how much product remains which I appreciated. I liked the functionality of the pump dispenser.
 
Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash has a creamy texture akin to a very lightweight lotion. I found it relatively easy to work into a generous lather, although a bath puff would help with this.
 
I'm a big fan of the Soap & Glory Sugar Crush fragrance, which is described as sweet lime and sugar, and this was no exception. I found it to be reminiscent of a summer cocktail and whilst it's sweet, it's not sickly. I found it uplifting but wouldn't necessarily say that it's energising. I didn't notice that the scent lingered on my skin following use. Likewise, whilst it's not especially drying, I didn't notice any nourishing benefits to my skin (despite the claims, I didn't really expect to) & I needed to moisturise following use.

I feel that at £6.50 for a generously sized 500ml bottle, Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Wash offers good value for money and I'd certainly consider repurchasing.
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Friday 30 October 2015

Speed Review: Caudalie Beauty Elixir



The rather optimistically named Caudalie Beauty Elixir facial spritzer is somewhat of a cult product and upon using it, it's easy to see why.

As a general rule, I like Caudalie as a brand. It has that effortlessly cool vibe that comes with being a French brand, I feel that the price points are fair and the products enjoyable to use. Much like Ren, I originally discovered the brand through their body care but they now appear to be focussing far more on their facial skincare offering.

That said, I didn't want to like Caudalie Beauty Elixir for the simple reason that it contains alcohol as the second ingredient, which I don't feel is a beneficial ingredient in skincare (it can aggravate skin & cause it to overproduce oil as well as potentially increasing free radical damage).

The frosted glass bottle looks chic but whilst it's available in travel friendly 100ml and 30ml sizes, the weight and potential for breakage means it's far from practical for this.

The mist itself is fine enough to be refreshing without leaving skin looking drenched. I appreciated that it works well over makeup. 

I absolutely adored the botanical scent which comes from a blend of essential oils (which those with very sensitive skin may not be able to tolerate) including peppermint, rosemary, balm mint & rose. It smells expensive and not at all synthetic. I found the scent to be soothing whilst also uplifting- it's quite addictive!

It's so enjoyable to use that I found myself reaching for Caudalie Beauty Elixir throughout the day, helping to hydrate skin and providing a quick hit of indulgence.

At £11.50 for 30ml or £32 for 100ml, it's pricey but there's something about Caudalie Beauty Elixir which I really like & which means that I'll keep coming back to it.
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Thursday 29 October 2015

Speed Review: Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner

 

Today's review is of the popular Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner which is described by the brand as a fresh, fluid exfoliating lotion to brighten, smooth & soften skin. 

The minimalist packaging is in keeping with the Clarins brand image. The directions are clear and easy to follow and I appreciated the responsible (& I believe, legally required) inclusion of a safe sun warning, which is particularly important when using chemical exfoliators such as this. The plastic bottle is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to tell how much product was remaining, which I appreciated. What's more, the hole in the top of the bottle allows for controlled dispensing without wastage.

Although described as a "fresh, fluid exfoliating lotion", the toner's texture is a clear liquid. It was quick and easy to apply onto skin using a cotton pad and felt cooling & refreshing. A little goes a long way and given that I only exfoliate my acne-prone, combination skin once or twice a week, the 125ml bottle will last a long time.

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner has a floral scent but I could clearly detect alcohol too, which is unsurprising given that this is one of the ingredients. Whilst I'm not strict in my approach, I generally try to avoid alcohol in toners as they can aggravate the skin & cause it to overproduce oil. However, it is my understanding that its inclusion helps the Tamarind derived glycolic acid (which, along with salicylic acid acts as the exfoliant) to penetrate more effectively into skin.

I feel that Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner lives up to the name. It exfoliates skin gently & effectively, leaving it smooth and looking radiant. I was impressed that despite the inclusion of alcohol, this didn't leave my skin feeling dry or tight following use, which may possibly be owing to the inclusion of hydrating glycerin. I really enjoy using this and whilst I don't love it quite as much as my beloved Alpha H Liquid Gold, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a good choice for the majority of skin types.

I feel that the £25 price tag is reasonable considering the high quality of Clarins products.






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Tuesday 27 October 2015

Speed Review: Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream


When most people think of the Elemis "Pro" ranges, the bestselling Pro Collagen line is probably the first to spring to mind but there's also the Pro Radiance collection, from which I've previously reviewed the Cream Cleanser. Following on from that, today's review is of the Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream.

On first impressions, Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream looks luxurious thanks to the minimalist design of the tube and reflective silver cap, presented in a royal blue box. The tube is a generously sized 100ml and what's more, it's functional.

The cream has a rich texture without being greasy. It felt smooth and velvety so I was surprised to note that it's a silicone-free formula. The cream was easily absorbed and I was very impressed that there was absolutely no greasy residue. A little goes a long way so I expect that the tube will last for a long time yet equally, I felt as though I needed to reapply fairly regularly throughout the day.

The strong white florals fragrance won't be to everyone's liking and whilst it lingers, it does settle down following application. It smells luxurious and expensive, not synthetic. Personally, I neither loved nor hated the scent.

My hands were left feeling smooth and nourished but at a rather pricey £25 for 100ml, I'm not sure that I could justify a repurchase purely because there are other, more affordable hand creams which I prefer.
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Monday 26 October 2015

Speed Review: NYX Butter Gloss in Angel Food Cake




 
If you watch a lot of YouTube videos then you'll no doubt have heard the hype surrounding NYX Butter Glosses. I've recently been using the shade Angel Food Cake and wanted to share my thoughts.
 
On first impressions, I liked the packaging, which is a relatively compact tube. I appreciated that the dusty mauve pink colour of the opaque tube reflects the colour of the gloss inside, making it easy to find the desired shade in a crowded makeup collection such as mine. The doe foot applicator allows for a controlled, precision application.
 
When I first pulled the applicator out of the tube, the relatively thick formula looked as though it might be gloopy but I needn't have worried. The gloss applied evenly and once on the lips,  felt smooth & with just enough slip to be comfortable, although I don't feel that it offered hydrating benefits. I was pleased that it wasn't sticky (as I hate sticky formulas).
 
The colour of shade Angel Food Cake is a pretty & wearbable dusty mid-toned pink which is ideal for year-round wear. I feel that it would suit a wide variety of skin tones. The finish is more pigmented than most glosses I've tried but it's not as opaque as a liquid lipstick.
 
The sweet vanilla bakery scent won't be to everyone's liking but personally, I enjoyed it & didn't find it to be overpowering. I didn't notice the scent once the gloss had been applied.
 
NYX Butter Gloss isn't transfer proof, however, it lasted on my lips for in excess of two hours without the need to reapply, which I feel is impressive for a gloss (especially one without a sticky formula).
 
NYX Butter Gloss is a great, affordable gloss at just £5 a tube, that I feel is deserving of the hype.
 





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Sunday 25 October 2015

Speed Review: Macadamia Deep Repair Masque

 

On a recent visit to my hairdresser, I got a serious telling off about the state of my tresses. Despite rarely using heated styling tools and generally taking care of my hair, my hair was ravaged by split ends and weakened so that it was prone to breakage. My hairdresser, who I've been loyally going to for over five years, put it down to recent stress and weight loss. She suggested that I add on the Phillip Kingsley Steam treatment to my hair appointment & snipped away a good few inches. She also recommended that I up my game at home, using a weekly hair mask as opposed to once every couple or few weeks. With this in mind, I thought it would be a good opportunity to try out blogger favourite, Macadamia Deep Repair Masque and it's quickly become part of my Sunday evening pamper routine.

Macadamia Deep Repair Masque is available in a 100ml tube, 250ml tub, 500ml value tub or trial sachet. Regular readers will know that I prefer tubes to tubs, finding them to be less messy and more hygienic, so it will come as little surprise that I opted for the 100ml tube, which is reasonably priced at approximately £9.50.

The brown and green packaging is aesthetically appealing, perhaps in part because it's so familiar to me after seeing various bloggers and vloggers rave about the product. The tube packaging is functional and well suited to the thick texture of the pearlised cream mask as it was easy to control how much was dispensed without wastage. The directions were clear and I appreciated the convenience offered by the fact that the mask gets to work in under 10 minutes.

Despite the thick formula, I found it easy to work the mask through my hair and subsequently, was impressed at how easy it was to rinse out. It has a very pleasant fresh, fruity fragrance. I was only able to detect this very slightly in my hair once it had been dried & styled (when it smelt fresh & clean).

Following use, my hair was left looking shiny, smooth and with frizz diminished. It felt soft & I was pleased that my fine hair wasn't weighed down but instead had healthy movement and bounce.

I feel that this is improving the condition of my hair. It's a joy to use and one of my favourites of the hair masks I've tried. I feel that it's definitely deserving of the hype and I can't recommend it highly enough.
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Saturday 24 October 2015

Speed Review: di Palomo Wild Fig & Grape Enriching Hand & Nail Cream


di Palomo isn't a brand which I've heard much about so my only impression of it is from having seen the products in rather dated local gift shops. That said, I love anything with fig so when I had the opportunity to try the brand's Wild Fig & Grape Enriching Hand & Nail Cream, I decided to keep an open mind.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, given that the brand is inspired by Italy, the colours & design on the box give a Mediterranean impression & this is reflected on the label of the black tube inside.  I wouldn't say that the tube is particularly luxurious but nor is it offensive. Inherently, as a tube, it's functional.

The cream has a lightweight texture and I appreciated that it was easily absorbed with no greasy residue.

During application, the scent was very delicate and hardly noticeable. As I consider this to be a gifting brand, I expected more of a scent to add to the sense of indulgence.  I was initially disappointed that the Wild Fig & Grape name didn't appear to be reflected in the scent because, as aforementioned, I usually love anything with a fresh, masculine fig fragrance. Interestingly, the scent seemed to develop on my skin and I found the fig to be more noticeable as time progressed.

Following use, my hands were left soft and looking & feeling smooth and hydrated.

di Palomo Wild Fig & Grape Enriching Hand & Nail Cream costs £8 for 75ml.
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Tuesday 20 October 2015

Speed Review: Tommyguns Bergamot & Inula Shampoo

 

 
I've tried a fair number of Tommyguns products & most recently, have been using Tommyguns Bergamot & Inula Shampoo which is designed to protect & prolong colour treated hair. It contains Inula to protect & give structure to hair, strengthening the hair shaft & leaving it smoother & stronger, along with Bergamot to enhance shine & colour brightness. I may not be best placed to review this product seeing as I don't have colour treated hair but nonetheless, I wanted to share my thoughts on the shampoo.
 
The Tommyguns packaging always appeals to me & I feel that it looks chic and higher end than the price tag thanks to the sleek square bottles with rounded corners. I thought that the coral colour of the shampoo looked pretty through the clear plastic bottle & what's more, I appreciated being able to tell how much product was remaining. The directions were clear and I found the flip top dispenser convenient.
 
I found it easy to work the shampoo into a lather, meaning that a little goes a long way. This is perhaps unsurprising given that the formula contains SLS. As a shampoo, it inherently rinsed out easily.
 
I thought that the scent was interesting. It has a fresh, fruity & fizzy scent which reminded me of lemonade. It's pleasant and not sickly sweet. I didn't notice the scent in my hair once it had been dried & styled.
 
Following use, my hair was left looking shiny & healthy. What's more, I was impressed that the shampoo didn't irritate my sensitive scalp.
 
On the whole, I liked Tommyguns Bergamot & Inula Shampoo. Whilst I can't comment on its colour protecting benefits, at £5.50 for 250ml, I feel that it's a good option if you're looking for a wallet friendly option and would recommended.




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Sunday 18 October 2015

Speed Review: Mark Hill MiracOILicious 2 Minute Intensive Treatment

I like to treat my tresses with a nourishing hair mask every week or so, usually on a Sunday after I've used a clarifying shampoo. I particularly appreciate the convenience of those which get to work quickly so when I noticed that the mask from Mark Hill's MiracOILicious line promises to leave hair  revitalised and feeling smooth, strong & looking shiny in just two minutes, I was intrigued.


On first impressions, I wasn't the biggest fan of the packaging. It's not offensive in terms of appearance but I dislike tubs, finding them to be messy and unhygienic. That said, I found the directions clear and easy to follow.

According to the brand, MiracOILicious contains an exotic mix of 14 of the world's finest essential oils and plant extracts including Moroccan Argan Oil, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Sage, Sandalwood, Spearmint, Palmarosa, Orange, Patchouli and Clove to name just a few. As such, I expected the mask to have an incredible, indulgent fragrance so I was disappointed to note that it had an intense, sickly sweet scent which I personally hated. This alone would put me off repurchasing.

Mark Hill MiracOILicious 2 Minute Intensive Treatment has a white, pearlised thick cream texture which felt silky and was easy to work through my hair. A little goes a long way meaning that the tub will last a long time, offering good value for money.


Whilst in the shower, I felt that the mask rinsed out relatively easily, however, after I'd dried & styled my hair, it felt as though there was product residue remaining. Whilst my hair felt soft, it wasn't as shiny as I'm accustomed to and my flyaways were less diminished than usual. Having said that, my fine hair wasn't weighed down and I was thankful that the sickly sweet scent of the mask didn't linger and that my hair simply smelt fresh & clean.

At £7.99 for 200ml, Mark Hill MiracOILicious 2 Minute Intensive Treatment is an affordable option, however, in my option there were too many downsides to this product and for that reason, I wouldn't repurchase.
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Friday 16 October 2015

Speed Review: Origins Make A Difference Rejuvenating Hand Treatment

 

After years of neglecting my hands, I've recently been on the hunt for my holy grail hand cream, resulting in me reviewing a number of different brands here on Skin Deep. The most recent to capture my attention is Origins Make A Difference Rejuvenating Hand Treatment.

I loved the packaging. The matte, mint green tube is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for use. What's more, the 75ml size means it's travel friendly.

The texture is a rich gel-cream, almost akin to a balm but less heavy. It absorbed quickly and left a "barrier" on the skin. It wasn't a greasy residue as such but I could definitely tell that there was product left on my hands. They felt protected and I feel this would be a good choice as we head into the winter months.

The scent- a slightly medicinal fragrance in which I thought I could detect aniseed- wasn't to my personal liking but whilst strong, it didn't linger.

My hands were left feeling soft and smooth however, at £19.50 for 75ml, I'd struggle to justify a repurchase particularly because I've tried other hand creams which I prefer (not least owing to the scent).
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Sunday 11 October 2015

Speed Review: Bumble & Bumble Creme de Coco Masque

I like to indulge in a weekly Sunday pamper session and feel that taking some "me time" is both a pleasant end to the weekend as well as a good preparation for the week ahead. This sometimes involves a face mask or mini manicure but inevitably will include using a clarifying shampoo followed by a hair mask.

I've recently been enjoying Bumble & Bumble Crème de Coco Masque, which is designed as a once-a-week masque with a trio of tropical butters (murumuru seed butter, shea butter & mango butter) to provide intensive moisture, softness, silkiness and gloss.



As Bumble & Bumble is one of my favourite hair care brands, it will come as no surprise that I tend to like the appearance of their packaging and am happy to have the products on display in my bathroom. Bumble & Bumble Crème de Coco Masque was no exception and what's more, I appreciated the functionality of the tube dispenser with flip top lid. It allowed for controlled dispensing, with no wastage.

The directions are clear and I liked that the masque gets to work in under 10 minutes, although it can be left on for longer to intensify the treatment.

Bumble & Bumble Crème de Coco is a smooth cream and as the name suggests, boasts a fragrance which is reminiscent of holidays. Unsurprisingly, coconut is the dominant scent but there's also an undertone of tropical fruits which I enjoyed. The scent was barely noticeable in my hair once it had been dried & styled.
The masque was easy to work through hair and effortless to rinse out.

Following use, my hair was left looking shiny, smooth and healthy. It felt incredibly soft and I was pleased to note that my fine hair wasn't weighed down but had body & movement. That said, I did notice that it looked more limp than usual the following day so it may not be the best choice for those with very fine hair (& this is stated on the Bumble & Bumble website). I feel that it delivers on the claims.

At £25 for 150ml, Bumble & Bumble Crème de Coco Masque is pricey but I feel that the results justify this. I feel that this would be a good choice for a range of different hair types (all except the oiliest) and would recommend checking it out.

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Saturday 10 October 2015

Speed Review: Champneys Spa Indulgence Distant Shores Shower Mousse


I usually use shower gels but I've recently been reaching for Champneys Spa Indulgence Distant Shores Shower Mousse.

The bright pink colour of the plastic bottle appealed to me. The packaging is functional with a pump dispenser and I liked that the bottle is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to tell how much product is remaining.

The pump dispenses a light foam. It's a soft lather as opposed to the rich and creamy texture which you might associate with a shave gel, for example. I felt as though this saves a little time as there's no need to work the product into a lather.

I liked the scent, which is described as passion fruit, mango and citrus. It's a pleasant tropical, fruity floral that wasn't at all sickly. Unfortunately, it doesn't linger on the skin after showering.

I had been concerned that the mousse formula would prove drying on the skin but I didn't notice any particular dryness or tightness on my skin following use.

I enjoyed using this product and may be tempted to pick it up again in future. Having said that, I'd only do so if it was on offer (the brand is often on offer in Boots) because I feel that the £8 for 200ml price tag is a little too much.

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Tuesday 6 October 2015

Speed Review: Soap & Glory Butter Yourself

 

I'm notoriously lazy when it comes to moisturising my body. For convenience, I usually use an in-shower body moisturiser or a "spray & go" format in the mornings and take the time to apply richer formulations at night. I've recently been reaching for Soap & Glory Butter Yourself, which is designed to soothe & soften even the driest skin thanks to a blend of shea, cocoa and moringa butters.

I like the Soap & Glory packaging which is always on-brand. The pink bottle with its retro image is unapologetically girlie but it's also functional with a handy pump dispenser. I liked that the plastic bottle is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to tell how much product remains.

The texture is richer than a lotion but not as heavy as a cream or butter. A little goes a long way so the generously sized bottle will last for a long time. I was impressed at how easily absorbed Soap & Glory Butter Yourself was. Unlike many body butters I've tried, it sank into skin effortlessly, leaving no greasy residue.

I wasn't the biggest fan of the scent during application and if anything would put me off repurchasing, it would be this. Although I had anticipated the pink packaging to be reflected in the scent with the brand's signature fragrance, Butter Yourself actually boasts a fresh, fruity fragrance. It combines the freshness of fig with the sweetness of mango and orange but I'm not convinced that it's a scent combination which works. It reminded me of cheap fragrances such as the old school Body Shop ones. I wasn't a fan, particularly as it's a rather strong fragrance.
It does linger on the skin but settles down to fresh fig with a warm almond element that I much preferred.

Skin was left feeling soft, smooth and hydrated following use. As tends to be the case with Soap & Glory products, Butter Yourself offers good value for money at £10 for a generous 500ml bottle.
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Monday 5 October 2015

Speed Review: No7 BB Lips (shade Ballerina)





I have somewhat of a love/ hate relationship with No7 BB Lips. Taken on its own, I like the product but I hate the comparisons to Clarins Instant Light Lip Perfectors, to which they are often called "dupes". In my opinion, they are not dupes and if you pick up a No7 BB Lips expecting this, you're likely to be disappointed.

I picked mine up when Boots were offering the No7 coupons and I chose the wearable pink shade, "Ballerina".

The functional tube looks relatively high end with a reflective silver screw cap and silver writing. I liked that the colour of the tube reflects the colour of the product inside. The slanted tip applicator hugs the lips & allows for a controlled, precision application.  Furthermore, the squeezy tube allows for control of how much product is dispensed.

The formula is smooth and comfortable to wear. It's not gloopy and the formula is non-sticky.

I wasn't the biggest fan of the plasticky scent, however, I liked the flattering, hint of pink colour and medium- glossy finish. It can be applied without a mirror.

I appreciated the inclusion of SPF15 and I also feel that this goes some way to justifying the BB name which I'd otherwise find rather gimmicky. Lips felt hydrated for approximately two hours following application. I keep No7 BB Lips on my desk and find it to be a nice product which is easy to use and wear but I don't love it so much as to rush out and pick up other shades.

No7 BB Lips costs £9 for 11ml.


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Saturday 3 October 2015

Speed Review: Korres Fig Shower Gel

I've recently been using Korres Fig Shower Gel and wanted to share my thoughts in today's review.


I like the packaging of Korres shower gels, which have an effortlessly cool aesthetic which appeals to me. What's more, the flip top lid means that it's functional for purpose. Having said this, I don't like the list of "free from" ingredients on the side of the plastic bottle- it frustrates me that there is an extensive list of ingredients which aren't included (e.g. mineral oil, silicones, alcohol, etc...) yet it still contains SLS, which I find to be drying on the skin.

Despite the inclusion of SLS, the lather is average- I'd recommend using Korres Fig Shower Gel with a bath puff to make the bottle last longer. I didn't notice any nourishing benefits and needed to moisturise following use.

As I love anything with a fig scent, it's unsurprising that I was a fan of the fragrance. It's green, fresh and unisex but has a warmth to it that adds an elegant sophistication. However, the scent didn't linger on my skin following use.

At £8 for 250ml, Korres Fig Shower Gel isn't the cheapest option but it is an easy way to incorporate a sense of indulgence to the everyday task of showering. My favourite scent from the Korres shower gel range is Guava but Fig is a close second so I'd certainly consider repurchasing, either as a treat for myself or as a can't-go-wrong gift idea.
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Friday 2 October 2015

Speed Review: Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream

 

It is said that Her Majesty The Queen is a fan of Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream- perhaps answering the eternal question of "what does The Queen carry in her handbag?". Well, if it's good enough for Her Majesty, I was keen to check it out for myself.

The bestselling hand cream contains soothing Sesame Oil and fortifying Japanese Mulberry and is designed to soften, protect, hydrate and strengthen nails.

Presented in a slimline tube, Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream looks chic and is functional for use.

The cream has a lightweight silky texture (I wasn't surprised to see Dimethicone in the ingredients list), which absorbed quickly and easily into skin, leaving no greasy residue. I loved the comforting citrus scent which lingered on the skin following application.

Following use, my hands were left looking smooth and feeling soft & nourished. It's not the most moisturising hand cream- the results were short lived meaning that I needed to reapply throughout the day but it's so enjoyable to use that I didn't mind.

It's easy to see why Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream is so popular. At £21 for 100ml, it's pricey but nonetheless, I've really enjoyed trialling this and would highly recommend it.
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Thursday 1 October 2015

Speed Review: The Sanctuary Body Scrub


 
Today's review is of The Sanctuary Body Scrub, which is designed as a gentle, polishing gel scrub which can be used daily.
 
I tend to like it when body scrubs are presented in functional tube packaging because I find it more hygienic and less messy (compared with tubs). I also liked that it was easy to tell how much product was remaining. In terms of aesthetics, it's clear from the packaging that the scrub is from an affordable brand but I didn't find it to be offensive.
 
The body scrub is presented as a gel texture with a high concentration of finely milled pumice, which forms the exfoliant. Despite the texture being akin to a shower gel & the formula containing SLS, The Sanctuary Body Scrub doesn't produce a lather.
 
The gel is an orange colour and I'd have liked this to have been reflected in the scent, however, it has the same scent as others in The Sanctuary signature range. This is described as patchouli and orange but I personally find the scent to be plasticky and it's not to my liking. That said, it didn't linger on my skin following use.
 
The Sanctuary Body Scrub delivers on its claims as being a gentle scrub even though the exfoliant is concentrated within the formula. This wasn't to my personal preference, as I prefer scrubs which are satisfyingly abrasive and for that reason, I'd be unlikely to repurchase. However, if you're looking for a gentle scrub, e.g. to maintain a tan, then this may be worth a look. The Sanctuary Body Scrub costs £5.50 for 200ml but given that I felt I needed to use quite a bit each use, I'd recommend waiting until the products were on offer (which they regularly are in Boots).
 
 
 
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Sunday 27 September 2015

Speed Review: Lavera Macadamia Passion Body Butter


 

Following on from yesterday's review, today's post looks at another Lavera product but instead of skincare, this time it's a body care product.

As the name suggests, Lavera Macadamia Passion Body Butter contains organic macadamia to smooth and organic passionflower, which is rich in essential fatty acids to keep skin soft, whilst also protecting against moisture loss.

Lavera Macadamia Passion Body Butter is presented in a white tub and whilst I quite liked the aesthetic, I'm not convinced that the rather plain, clinical packaging would appeal to me if I saw it on a shop shelf. I appreciated the inclusion of a "use by" date and the "green" credentials are also clearly marked.

I tend not to like tub packaging as I find it to be both messy & unhygienic. That said, it does lend itself well to body butters. Unlike many body butters which have a solid balm texture, Lavera Macadamia Passion Body Butter has a very thick cream texture, meaning that a little goes a long way. It took quite a bit of effort to work into skin and this was, rather frustratingly, the case even after using a body scrub. Having said that, once it was absorbed into skin I was very pleased to note that there was no greasy residue which is very impressive for a body butter!

I loved the comforting scent in the tub. It's warm and nutty as opposed to fruity or floral. However, I wasn't such a fan of the scent as I applied the body butter onto skin. The warmth of my skin seemed to change the scent & it reminded me of play-dough!

Despite not being the biggest fan of the application, I was impressed with the results. My skin was left feeling soft, smooth and wonderfully conditioned. It will be a good choice as we head into the winter months.
I feel that Lavera Macadamia Passion Body Butter is reasonably priced at £8.95 for 150ml.
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Saturday 26 September 2015

Speed Review: Lavera Organic Gentle Foaming Cleanser

 

I tend to shy away from foaming cleansers, for fear that the harsh foaming agents will strip my acne-prone skin and cause it to overproduce oil. However, I decided to give Lavera Organic Gentle Foaming Cleanser a go owing to the natural ingredients.

The packaging isn't the most exciting although the white colour clearly communicates the natural brand message. I'd have preferred a transparent bottle to be able to tell how much product was remaining. The pump dispenser is functional and I appreciated the clear directions.

One pump dispenses a generous amount of product. A very soft, lightweight foam is produced and it's easy to work this into skin. Despite containing organic almond, the cleanser has no discernable scent.

I feel that Lavera Organic Gentle Foaming Cleanser lives up to its name. The cleanser does indeed feel very gentle and I was even able to use it around the delicate eye area, although its worth noting that it wasn't completely effective & I still needed to use a separate eye makeup remover.

It rinsed away easily and I was impressed that my skin didn't feel tight or stripped following use.

I was a little surprised at the price tag of £11.90 for just 50ml but if you have normal skin and are looking for a simple, everyday rinse-off cleanser then it could be worth checking this out.
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Friday 25 September 2015

Speed Review: Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser



Despite knowing how popular some of their skincare is, I tend to think of Korres for the body care first & foremost. However, I recently found myself craving a wash-off cleanser so I reached for Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser which has been in my "to try" box.

The packaging is in line with the effortlessly cool branding of Korres. Presented in a simple cardboard box, the packaging of the exfoliating cleanser is a matte tube with functional flip top. The design on the packaging makes a feature of the product description but the directions are also clear.

Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser has a cream texture with small particles of natural ground rice seeds and cherry stones. Even though the particles don't look especially concentrated within the formula, they feel it when massaging into skin. It doesn't feel harsh but nor is it gently abrasive. This, together with the fact that the particles are from natural ingredients and therefore, irregularly shaped (which can cause damage to the skin's surface) means that I wouldn't recommend this for use by those with active breakouts and also feel that it gives slightly too effective an exfoliation for everyday use.

Those who dislike the scent of rose shouldn't be put off trying this product as I was personally unable to detect it. Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser has a pleasant, delicate fragrance and there's something about it (possibly owing to the inclusion of ground rice seeds) which I found rather comforting.

The cleanser doesn't lather but it emulsifies into a milk. As it contains exfoliating particles, it inherently took a little more effort than usual to rinse away. An obvious downside is that it's not suitable for use around the delicate eye area so I had to use a separate eye makeup remover (I prefer the convenience of all-in-one products such as cleansing oils).

Following use, my skin was left feeling soft and smoothed but not tight or stripped. My skin tone noticeably appeared more even.

I was a little surprised to discover the price of Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser & feel that it is slightly overpriced at £18 for 150ml as I was expecting something closer to the £10 mark. It's an average product, nothing special, but if you have normal, dry or mature skin & are looking for something new then this may be worth a look.
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Tuesday 15 September 2015

Speed Review: Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea Facial Mist


Today's review is of one of my favourite facial spritzers, Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea Facial Mist.

The small blue glass bottle is presented in a box, also in the brand's signature blue. The packaging states that the product is 92% organic and also includes a "best before" date, which I appreciated. The bottle may not scream luxury but nor is it offensive. In my opinion, it has an apothecary feel to it. Although the 45ml size is travel friendly, the glass means that it's not practical for this owing to the increased weightiness and potential for breakage.

The directions are clear and I liked that the glass is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to tell how much product remained.

The spritzer delivers a targeted shot of hydration. It's not the finest or most diffused mist but it is refreshing. I liked that it works effectively over makeup and I also felt that it helped to soften my skin.

My favourite aspect of Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea Facial Mist is the soothing botanical scent which incorporates Bach Flower Remedies. It's great for keeping on my desk and spritzing on in times of stress or simply when I want to hydrate and refresh my skin.

At £11.50 for 45ml, I feel that Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea Facial Mist is priced comparably with similar brands. It may not be the most affordable considering the relatively small size but it's such a wonderful product that I feel it's worth every penny. I'd highly recommend Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea Facial Mist.
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Monday 14 September 2015

Speed Review: Madara Protecting Hand Cream

 

Madara isn't a brand with which I'm overly familiar but I've recently been trialling the brand's Eco-Cert certified Protecting Hand Cream, having been sent a sample and wanted to share my thoughts.

On first impressions, I'm not sure that the packaging would appeal to me if I saw it on a shop shelf. The green tube clearly communicates the organic skincare brand message and whilst it's not worthy, it feels slightly outdated. That said, I appreciated the functionality of the tube and also liked the inclusion of a "use by" date on the packaging.

When squeezing the cream out of the tube, the first thing I noticed was the thick texture and this is perhaps unsurprising given that cocoa butter and sunflower seed oil feature in the top three ingredients. The cream felt velvety smooth and whilst it took a little effort to rub in, it quickly sank into my dry skin.

Following use, there was no greasy residue and only a butter almond scent lingered, which I personally liked. My hands felt nourished, soft and smooth. I was impressed that the condition of my hands instantly looked improved.

I'm not convinced by the name "Protecting" Hand Cream as I'd like to see the inclusion of SPF to justify this, however, it is a good option to hydrate and nourish hands particularly as we go into the colder months.

Madara Protecting Hand Cream costs £10 for 75ml.
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Thursday 3 September 2015

Speed Review: Lucy's Lotions Vitamin E and Grapefruit Body Butter

I like to support smaller brands when I can so when I heard about Lucy's Lotions, a range of handmade, results driven skincare which is based on the finest quality natural ingredients, I was excited to try out one of the products. I opted for the Body Butter from Range 01- Vitamin E and Grapefruit, which is designed to nurture & hydrate skin.

 
On first impressions, I liked the packaging. The tin has an effortlessly cool appeal and the overall aesthetic clearly communicates that it's a small brand whilst still looking professional.
The body butter is a thick white cream with a slightly whipped texture. It has a delicate citrus scent (personally, I found this to be more of a generic citrus than grapefruit) which is fresh on the skin without being so overpowering as to interfere with other fragrances. The scent comes from a blend of pure essential oils including grapefruit, mandarin and lavender. 
  

Lucy's Lotions Vitamin E and Grapefruit Body Butter contains Vitamins A, B, C and of course, E which is renowned for its antioxidant properties. In addition, it contains shea & cocoa butters along with soothing aloe vera & jojoba oil. As aforementioned, it is designed to nurture & hydrate skin, as well as improving elasticity and helping to reduce the appearance of scars & stretch marks.

The intensely nourishing formula means that a little goes a long way. It took quite a bit of effort to get the body butter to absorb into the skin (& this was the case even after exfoliating) and it's this which would put me off repurchasing as I simply lack the patience!
That said, I loved that once it was absorbed, I couldn't detect the greasy residue which I so often associate with body butters. My skin was left feeling nourished and conditioned.

Lucy's Lotions Vitamin E and Grapefruit Body Butter costs £14 for 150ml.

 
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Tuesday 1 September 2015

Speed Review: Jurlique Rose Shower Gel

 

Regular readers will know that I'm a big fan of Jurlique's shower gels, with the Moisture Revive Shower Gel winning the Best Body Wash category in the 2014 Skin Deep Beauty Awards. With that in mind, it may not be surprising that today's review of Jurlique's Rose Shower Gel is a rave.

Jurlique Rose Shower Gel is presented in a plastic, semi-opaque bottle which looks chic in the shower. I appreciated the functionality of the pump dispenser & also liked that I was able to see how much product was remaining.

The clear gel produces a surprisingly generous lather, meaning that a little goes a long way. As you'd expect given the name, it has a sweet, floral rose fragrance which those who dislike rose wouldn't be fond of. Personally, I liked it.

At £17 for 300ml, Jurlique Rose Shower Gel is undeniably expensive but it's worth a look if you're looking for a gift idea or simply an indulgent way to treat yourself.
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Friday 28 August 2015

Speed Review: Tommyguns Fig & Plum Shampoo and Fig, Plum & Marshmallow Conditioner


I've recently been trialling the shampoo and conditioner from Tommyguns' Fig & Plum range, which is aimed at those with frizzy, chaotic & unruly hair types, whether styling it straight or curly. The products appealed to me because my hair is frizz prone and Fig & Plum are supposedly meant to enrich hair, leaving it more manageable. The Conditioner in particular appealed to me because it contains Marshmallow extract to soothe & help prevent breakage, which my fine hair is prone to.

Both the shampoo & conditioner are presented in square plastic bottles with rounded edges, which look chic in the bathroom and give an impression that the products are higher end than the price tags suggest.

First up, Tommyguns Fig & Plum Shampoo. The packaging, which features a flip top lid, is functional for purpose and I liked that the transparent bottle meant I could tell how much was remaining. Tommyguns Fig & Plum Shampoo is a relatively liquid, maroon coloured gel which had an incredible fresh, juicy plum scent which I adored (sadly, it's not noticeable in hair once it is dried and styled).  The shampoo produces a generous lather meaning that a little goes a long way. As a shampoo, it inherently rinses away easily.



As aforementioned, in terms of aesthetics, I liked the packaging of Tommyguns Fig, Plum & Marshmallow Conditioner. Unfortunately, it's not functional for purpose. I wish that it had been designed with a handy pump rather than the flip top lid. It's not the easiest bottle to squeeze, which means that it's difficult to release the relatively thick conditioner and I found this frustrating, particularly when I was in a hurry. I'd also have preferred a transparent bottle to be able to tell how much product was remaining.

The best thing about Tommyguns Fig, Plum & Marshmallow Conditioner is the incredible scent which reminded me of a sensual perfume, with a hint of sweetness from the plum ingredient (albeit not sickly). Again, I was disappointed to find that it was difficult to detect in my hair once it had been dried & styled. Despite the thick texture, I found it easy to work the conditioner through my hair and rinsability was average.

I trialled these products as I always do for haircare- trying the shampoo on its own with my usual conditioner, the conditioner on its own with my usual shampoo and also, both the shampoo and conditioner together. I was surprised that it seemed to be the shampoo which weighed down my fine hair. Whilst my hair was left looking shiny after using the shampoo, it was also weighed down and lacked movement (this was the case when I tried the shampoo alone with my usual conditioner as well as when I tried both the shampoo & conditioner together).

Following use of the conditioner, my hair was left feeling soft and looking incredibly shiny. I didn't notice that frizz was diminished despite it being aimed at those with frizzy, chaotic & unruly hair. I was pleased that my fine hair wasn't weighed down but looked thick, volumised & had a healthy movement/ bounce so for this reason, I preferred the conditioner.

At £5.50 for 250ml each, I feel that both Tommyguns Fig & Plum Shampoo and Tommyguns Fig, Plum & Marshmallow Conditioner offer good value for money. However, I'd personally be unlikely to repurchase because of the issues I noticed with my fine hair being weighed down following use of the shampoo and purely because of the frustrations I had in terms of packaging functionality of the conditioner. However, if you have thicker hair or more patience than me then I'd certainly recommend checking these out.
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Wednesday 26 August 2015

Speed Review: Dr Nick Lowe Double Duty SPF15 Hand Cream

 

They say that you can tell a person's age by looking at their hands yet despite my strict approach to facial skincare (& in particular, wearing sun protection on a daily basis), I'm guilty of neglecting my hands. With this in mind, I was excited to try Dr Nick Lowe Double Duty SPF15 Hand Cream.

The packaging- a box with a fairly minimalist design in turquoise & white- emphasizes the clinical nature of the brand. Inside is a similarly minimalist tube with a functional flip top dispenser. It's not the most exciting packaging but it feels relatively high end thanks to the "doctor" brand message.

Dr Nick Lowe Double Duty SPF15 Hand Cream is a rich cream. Be aware that a little goes a long way. The travel friendly 100ml tube will last a long time. It's very nourishing so would be a good choice for those with mature skin or very dry hands.

Personally, the botanical (& almost medicinal) scent wasn't to my liking. Thankfully, I couldn't notice any discernable scent once the cream was absorbed. However, I did notice that a greasy residue was left which wasn't to my liking, particularly as the main time that I use hand cream is at work when I want to apply it then promptly carry on with jobs without having to wait for a cream to absorb.

Following use, my hands were left looking and feeling nourished & conditioned. I was impressed to note that this feeling lasted for hours following application. It's effective as a richly moisturising hand cream but I didn't enjoy the usage and it's this which would put me off repurchasing.

Dr Nick Lowe Double Duty SPF15 Hand Cream costs £15 for 100ml.
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Monday 24 August 2015

Speed Review: Time Bomb Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream

 

Regular readers will know that I favour oil based cleansers but I've recently been trialling Time Bomb Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream, having been sent a sample for review.

On first impressions, I liked the packaging- a slimline 125ml functional tube with bold font and clear directions.

As the name suggests, the texture is a lightweight cream which is applied to damp skin. It doesn't lather- which I appreciated as I generally find that formulas containing harsh detergents & foaming agents strip the skin- but nonetheless, a little goes a long way.

Thanks to the inclusion of lavender oil, Time Bomb Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream has a very subtle lavender scent which means that it's well suited to night-time use.

The cleanser provides a very gentle exfoliation thanks to tiny particles & magnesium oxide (which the packaging states is a key ingredient in microdermabrasion). I personally liked that it didn't feel harsh on the skin but if you're hoping for an abrasive scrub, this won't be for you.

Time Bomb Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream rinsed away easily, without any residue and worked well to remove my face makeup. My skin didn't feel tight or stripped following use. Despite containing shea butter, I didn't experience any issues when using this on my acne prone skin.

As it's not suitable for use around the eye area, a separate eye makeup remover is needed- which I found a little tiresome as I prefer my cleanser to be an all in one. This is one of the predominant reasons why I wouldn't repurchase. It does the job as a cleanser and would be well suited to the target market of those with mature skin. It isn't a bad cleanser but nor is it anything special and for this reason, I feel that the price tag of £15 for 125ml is reasonable.
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Tuesday 11 August 2015

Speed Review: Clynol Hair Expert Clear Cleansing Shampoo

I'd previously steered clear of clarifying shampoos, fearing that they would "strip" my hair and irritate my sensitive scalp. However, I've been using Clynol Hair Expert Clear Cleansing Shampoo for a number of months now and have been so impressed with the results that it has become an integral part of my hair care routine.


Don't be put off by the packaging, which is very minimalist in line with the salon branding and distribution of Clynol. I'd easily pass this by if I saw it on a shelf. Having said that, the plastic bottle is functional with a flip top lid for easy dispensing.

The shampoo has a thick, clear gel formula which produces a generous lather. A little goes a long way meaning that the bottle will last a long time. There's no discernable scent- it simply smells fresh and clean. I like to leave the suds on my hair for a minute or so before rinsing out, which it does easily.

I can't speak for everyone but Clynol Hair Expert Clear Cleansing Shampoo hasn't irritated my sensitive scalp at all. It simply leaves my hair feeling clean and free of build up.

Clynol Hair Expert Clear Cleansing Shampoo has completely reversed the way I perceive clarifying shampoos. I'm highly impressed and would recommend this.
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Sunday 9 August 2015

Speed Review: Amie Morning Light Hydrating Daily Moisturiser


I've previously reviewed skincare from the brand, Amie (click here to read) and remember being impressed at the affordable yet gentle products which are aimed at teenage skin. Whilst I may not be in the target demographic, I've recently revisited the brand and have been trialling Morning Light Hydrating Daily Moisturiser. The moisturiser contains rose extract, rose hip oil and mallow & is designed to keep even sensitive skin types soft, hydrated and nourished all day.

On first impressions, I liked the packaging- a pale pink, matte tube with a cute but not saccharine design which I suspect would appeal to the target audience. I liked that the name of the product is sufficiently descriptive as to make it clear how it's intended to be used. What's more, the tube is functional for use.

Amie Morning Light Hydrating Daily Moisturiser has a gel cream texture and a pleasant, delicate floral scent which I didn't find overpowering. I didn't find it to be the easiest product to absorb into my skin but having said that, a little goes a long way, although it doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It dried to a non-greasy finish and I was pleased to note that it worked well as a base under makeup.

Following use, my skin was left looking plumped and feeling soft & hydrated. This feeling lasted all day.

Personally, I prefer my daily moisturiser to contain sun protection so for that reason alone, I'd be unlikely to repurchase Amie Morning Light Hydrating Daily Moisturiser. However, at just £4.95 for 100ml, I feel that it delivers on the claims. It's a good affordable option which I feel would benefit a range of skin types, particularly combination.
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Wednesday 29 July 2015

Speed Review: Bumble & Bumble DeFrizz

It's been years since I used a serum on my hair. My previous go-to method of controlling frizz (John Frieda FrizzEase being my most purchased) was quickly forgotten upon discovery of hair oils and I haven't looked back... until now.

I've recently been trialling Bumble & Bumble DeFrizz and whilst I can't say that I'll be rejecting my beloved hair oils anytime soon, I'm impressed.


Bumble & Bumble hair products are a joy to have in my bathroom. I tend to store all but my most reached for hair products out of sight in a cupboard under my sink but I'd be happy to have any Bumble & Bumble product on display- the packaging is effortlessly cool, as is my perception of the brand overall and Bumble & Bumble DeFrizz is no exception. What's more, the flip top lid makes for easy & controlled dispensing of the product.

The serum was easy to use. It's a clear, silicone based gel which was easy to work through my hair. I was unable to detect any obvious scent. A little goes a long way so the generously sized 125ml plastic bottle will last and last, which goes some way to justifying the high price tag of £22.50.

It may have been psychological but I felt as though my hair dried more quickly than usual when I applied this to damp hair. I'm not sure that frizz was diminished any more than with my usual hair oil but it certainly wasn't worse. My hair was left feeling unbelievably soft yet still manageable. It wasn't weighed down with product and I didn't notice any product residue in my hair once it had been dried & styled.

I've also used this on dry hair and was impressed that just a small drop visibly helped to tame frizz. What's more, it delivered a mirror-like shine.

I feel that Bumble & Bumble DeFrizz delivers on the claims and is a worthwhile investment.
 
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Tuesday 28 July 2015

Speed Review: L'Oreal Elvive Smooth-Intense Anti-Frizz Conditioner

 

I usually favour high end, salon brands when it comes to choosing hair care but L'Oreal is one exception to that rule. I've enjoyed using their hair masks, oil and of course, the iconic Elnett hair spray, to name just a few. So when I recently saw L'Oreal Elvive Smooth-Intense Anti-Frizz Conditioner on offer in Boots, I decided to pick up a bottle to try.
 
The packaging isn't anything special but it is functional, with a flip bottom which releases the conditioner in a controlled manner.
 
L'Oreal Elvive Smooth-Intense Anti-Frizz Conditioner has a pleasant scent which reminded me of salon brands. The lightweight formula was easy to work through my hair and I was impressed at how easily it rinsed out.
 
Following use, my hair was left feeling soft, looking shiny and with frizz noticeably dimished, I feel that it delivers on claims. At just £3.99 for a generous 400ml bottle (which will last & last), I feel that L'Oreal Elvive Smooth-Intense Anti-Frizz Conditioner offers fantastic value for money and I'd highly recommend checking it out.






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Monday 20 July 2015

Speed Review: NARS Hardwired Eyeshadow in Opal Coast

 
 

It's been some time since I last reviewed an eyeshadow here on Skin Deep but I felt inspired to write today's post after trying the NARS Hardwired Eyeshadow in Opal Coast.
 

Originally introduced as part of the Holiday 2014 collection, NARS Hardwired Eyeshadow in Opal Coast is a stunning iridescent white powder eyeshadow. The instantly recognisable NARS black packaging features a design which is reminiscent of a shatter pattern. There's a full sized mirror in the lid and 2.2g of product inside.

I was pleasantly surprised by the soft and smooth application- the shadow is not chalky. It's by no means an every day shadow and nor does it claim to be. I noticed one of the reviews on the NARS website described Opal Coast as "like glistening Christmas snow" and I have to agree. The shadow is intensely iridescent and gives a high impact shimmer. The glitter particles are fine, not chunky, meaning that it's a grown-up way of wearing glitter. I particularly liked wearing this around the tear duct to add light to a dramatic smoky eye.

I have to admit that despite my love of NARS, I would struggle to justify the £18 price tag however, if you're looking for a pretty pigment without the mess of loose shadow, this could be worth a look.
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Wednesday 15 July 2015

Speed Review: Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

 

Bumble & Bumble is one of my favourite hair brands so I couldn't wait to try out the bestselling Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo and Conditioner. The products are based on a blend of six featherweight oils including Argan Oil, Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Safflower Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil.

On first impressions, I liked that the shampoo & conditioner are easily distinguishable from each other in the shower thanks to different packaging. I always think of Bumble & Bumble as an effortlessly cool brand which I'm happy to have on display in my bathroom and the Hairdresser's Invisible Oil products in their bright neon packaging are no exception. What's more, I liked being able to tell how much product is remaining.

Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo is a pearlised gel presented in a functional bottle with flip top dispenser. It has an incredible, comforting, milky scent. I was impressed at the generous, soft & silky lather which was produced, especially considering that the formula is sulphate-free, and as a result, a little goes a long way. As a shampoo, I found it inherently easy to rinse out.

Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Conditioner is presented in a functional tube with clear directions. Despite the thick cream formula, I found it easy to work through my hair and noted that it felt indulgently silky. The conditioner has the same incredible scent as the shampoo- although, sadly I couldn't detect it in my hair once I'd dried & styled it. I was impressed at how easy it was to rinse out the conditioner, particularly considering the thick formula.

Following use, my hair was left looking shiny and feeling incredibly soft yet still manageable so I feel that the products deliver on the soften & silken claims which Bumble & Bumble make. My fine hair had movement and wasn't weighed down. Whilst Bumble & Bumble claim that the products will help to tame and defrizz, I wouldn't say that frizz was any more diminished than with my standard products but nonetheless, I'd highly recommend Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo and Conditioner. At £23 for 250ml Shampoo and £25 for 200ml Conditioner, they're undeniably pricey even compared to other salon brands but I feel that the quality of the products justifies this.

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