Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir

As I have mentioned before, I absolutely adore Jo Malone products. I bought this a while ago, as you probably noticed from the far from full bottle, but I couldnt help myself bringing this smell to Glasgow. 

I had smelt a few of the other scents from the range, including the fairly new one of them - Earl Grey and Cucumber which is lovely, fresh and summery. Its a bit like what a Pimms nr 1 is in drinks, but in perfume.. definitely investing in that when we get some more sun-time. But it was this one which took my fancy for this time of year. Like the Angel Cocoa Powder Limited Edition perfume which I blogged about the other day, its really heady and sensual, a proper evening perfume (I have cheekily worn it during the day as well. Lets just say its a weekend scent). J thinks it smells like cider.... honestly, cannot smell that myself!

I bought it in the York Jo Malone when I was over there on my day off a few weeks ago. I had a day to myself and went for a little shopping spree and lunch. On my own! No I actually enjoyed it, it was very expensive though, no one to hold me back haha

This I paid £38, which I think it quite expensive for 35ml, but then this is a fantastic scent and its nice trying something different than all the big perfume brands.

Absolutely lush. Lives in my bag! And will definitely stay there too. 

Hope youre enjoying your weekend? 

Z x

Empties Feb.

I dont have a lot of interesting new products to show in this, but its great finally getting some of the old half empty bottles out of the way. 
However, I have found this Schwarzkopf Coconut Shampoo and Conditioner which is absolutely delightful and makes you think of summer and lovely warm days.

The Bourjois Nail Polish Remover was a godsend when my flatmate bought it for me for Christmas. It retails at £6.99 in the Bourjois counter and will be repurchased, just so quick and usable. Pecksniff's Body & Massage Lotion £21 is a gorgeous Lavender Body Lotion. It is super light, not oily at all which makes an ideal choice (this gets technical ;) for blending your Sun Shimmer (or any other instant tans for that matter). Now here is what Ive found. If you blend in a body lotion with the instant tan, it doesnt only last a little longer, as it soaks into the skin rather than sitting on top of the skin thus looking more natural. It also leaves out that disgusting biscuit smell which follows the sun shimmer. Id also like to add that I only ever use this for "special nights out" as applying tan is not something I do on a daily basis. 

The bodyshop shea-butter is a favorite of mine. Long summer-nights, sun-burnt skin and champagne cocktails springs to mind. You can never get enough of this stuff at £4.99. The Radox Berry Burst is lovely and summery too! Think I picked it up for £0.90 at Boots. 

The Clarins Relax Bath and Shower Gel and Clarins Foot Beauty Treatment Cream are both lush products. So is the Sanctuary Spa Face wash, which I buy whenever Im going away on breaks (We have just been to Glasgow, and I will do a post on some of the things I purchased from there). 

Sorry this isn't the most inspiring post, but I promise there will be more soon. I have got some great things which I cannot wait blogging. 

Hope you have a Friday / start to the weekend. 

Lots of love 
x

Thierry Mugler Cocoa Angel

I saw this perfume in Ville de Senlis just outside Paris last year and kicked myself when I didnt buy it. Angel is, and has been for many years, my favourite perfume and my staple scent. So when I saw this, a limited edition with magnified with bitter cocoa powder, which has heavy notes of, well funnily enough, cocoa. So when I saw it in Debenhams for a mere £64 (ouch! for 35mL) I knew I had to get it. Im so happy I did, but it is purely a once in a while perfume as I am well aware that I probably wont be able to get another one of these. Sadly! Its heavy and sexy and is one of my ideal perfumes. 

If you like Angel and use it as an everyday perfume like myself, this is a great evening alternative. Although, I think Ebay would probably be your best shout for one of these as they were limited and I think I bought the last one in my Leeds department. Not sure how long theyre going to be around for.

Have a great night!

Xx 

Seche Vite Top Coat

This has got to be one of my favourite products! These are strong words, however, I have been nothing but impressed since purchasing it. 

It was my flatmate who introduced it to me when I complained my own had gone gloopy! I have previously used Good To Go by Essie and to be honest, thought that was an amazing product. Until I tried this. It just lasts those few days longer. 

I HATE chipped nails, it just isnt very professional and gives a terrible impression that you dont take care of yourself. I Love having my nails done as they last a good 3 weeks, but its not often I can afford a £35 splashout every 3 weeks. SO I use my general nailvarnish (however many layers are required) and then use a topcoat. This is a fast-dry version of the kind. And it thoroughly works. 

So if youre looking for a great new topcoat which just lasts that little bit longer, this is the one!

Hope you all have a great weekend out there :)

x

M.A.C Matchmaster 1.5

Ok, I gave in. I promised myself I wouldnt overdose on foundation this time, but a breakout mixed with a good january wage meant I have now acquired nothing less than 3 foundations in the last month...

I just have to see if this is the one gives my skin a little break from the heavy Doublewear. Well that was what I told myself to justify this. This is the 4th time I have repurchased since I tried it at a 'MAC Makeover' in feb last year .. I just love it. The smell reminds me a tad about paint, but the feel on the skin definitely weighs it up. Its a great product for any M.A.C- lover. 

I chose 1.5 which is very pale.... and on the cold side of foundations. But mixed with my other foundation, its a great match, this way, I can also tailor it to suit my skin on more overcast days where you dont want to look too yellow (as its horrid and stands out during the light hours).

Its quite a lot more covering than the other foundations I have tried by M.A.C but it keeps my skin dewy which I need during the cold wintertimes. 

If you feel like you want to try something new this one isnt a bad choice of foundation, I can imagine it would be a good all-around - and it comes in a good range of colours too! At a cost of £25, its not too bad either. 

Hope youre all great!!! 

Love,

Zen x

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference

I have been given this as a present as I was complaining my skin was disgustingly dry and in a horrible condition. I have read a few reviews about this product to find out what I had been given. I will say, the smell is not very pleasant. Overall, im not impressed. Although, my skin got a bit better as it really needed some TLC its not back to the usual but its definitely on the right track... 

Despite not really liking neither the smell nor the texture, it is value for money as it is quite a substantial amount in such a small pot. 

I still wouldnt repurchase, quite disappointing for such a 'high-end brand'. I can see this ending up in the back of the drawer or being demoted to my boyfriends' house as emergency stach. Eek. Harsh.

Have a good weekend, guys.

Z xx 

Limited Edition Dior Holiday Travel Brush Set

Im going away for a few days this weekend and next week with the boyfriend and some of our friends and thought this would be an ideal time to introduce my new Dior Mini Brush Holiday Travel Set. 

The set contains 4 essential brushes which are small and easy to transport (so theyre not lying, rolling around in the bottom of your bag and loosing most of the bristles... whoops). These were all over the scene last year and I was lucky enough to be treated to this little set. Retailing at £56, it is on the expensive range, and to be completely frank, Im not sure I would have paid this for them. 

The set includes (in mini sizes of course):

• Dior Backstage Powder Brush
• Dior Backstage Cheek Brush
• Dior Backstage Eyeshadow Brush
• Dior Backstage Lip Brush

Personally, I consider it a three brushes set since I don’t find the Lip Brush terribly useful (rarely do I use a lip brush and I dont think Im alone here!)

But the little case is pretty and its got an extra little space for my own brushes (The smallest ones I cannot live without when going away of course).

As a little extra, I was giving this Dior Visage et Yeux, which is a cleansing milk for skin and eyes. I am not very experienced in cleansing milks, I usually use a facial cleansing gel or soap, and a toner followed by moisturiser - if Im really lazy - a good old Johnsons' baby wipe!!! I previously used  Cattier Paris Caresse D'Herboriste which is an organic product I had recommended by a beautician who I used to go to. 

To be honest, I didnt really fall for the product when I bought it, and never really got into the routine of using it so it was left lying around both when living in Copenhagen as well as when I moved back to the UK. So it was happily received as Im sure the other product was well out of date. 

I have used the Dior Lait Magique Demaquillant a couple of times, it smells amazing and is really good. I am still trying to find a product which removes my Estee Lauder DoubleWear EASILY and without having to go over and over and over with 70 different products before its TRULY off. I may try the Estee Lauder counter or the local B&Q for paint-stripper........ 

I wish you a great end to the week. Should be back soon. Have finally taken a picture of my empties ;) And its only half of it as the rest was thrown away at my second home... 

dear of dear!

Z x

French Gel Overlays part 2.

Awkward nail picture part 2!!! 

I am just updating on my nails. Went to Mint today and had them done again, and I can tell you I am so pleased. They look absolutely stunning. Love how crisp she makes them. Franki who does mine, and the rest of my work (we seem to have started a trend) is my favourite. I have seen some of the other girls' work, and although theyre good, I far prefer Franki - she is just incredibly good at making the line even and precise. 

Its just a short update, but thought Id share it. Off on holiday to Denmark tomorrow, am very very excited about seeing everyone. 

Will try take some nice pictures and blog. 

Z x

French Gel Overlays

Taking pictures of your nails is always a weird one (!). I had these done last week. Whenever I did my nails, it wouldnt be a day and they would have split and chipped. I think it boils down to the dryness and condition. And the Sally Hansen product I bought to prevent this - did nothing but encourage this peeling of nails. Sad eyes.

So I decided to get bio-sculpture (link here) in order to protect the nail whilst hidden under the hard shell. 

'Bio Sculpture Gel is an exceptionally durable gel treatment that nurtures the nail bed whilst allowing the nail to look immaculate. It is a healthy nail system that will not chip or damage your nails, protecting and strengthening the natural nail in the process. Bio Sculpture is the original and market leading colour gel with a range of over 150 different colours.'

I had this done at Mint nails in Leeds (Link here) which is quite an expensive nailbar (£31.50) compared to other places in Leeds, but I am amazed how well its lasted. Its been a week so far, and it still looks immaculate. (usually lasts 2-3 weeks apparently). Whats even better, my natural nails are growing longer underneath, without chipping! I will definitely be doing this again - well worth the price. 


Z x

Jergens Cherry-Almond Moisturiser

Whats more ideal than spending your rainy monday off, inside just spoiling yourself with cups of tea and a bit of pampering?

I have heard so much about Jergens. It wasnt till I stumbled upon it in Superdrug that I even thought about giving it a try. As I showed in my previous post in September empties, I finished one of my body butter and my steamcream, so i needed to top up on the moisturisers. 

I was drawn to the Cherry-almond combination as both fragrances are some of my absolute favourite.. It is very easily absorbed and makes my skin super smooth. A great little product for the cold autumn days when rain and cold wind has over-dried the skin!

Whats your autumn favourite to stay moisturised? 

Z x 

Empties from September

I have set myself a task of emptying out half bottles and hope to encourage myself by showing the empties I go through.

Above is a picture of the empties, and I think its safe to say there is a little bit of everything. Im just going to pick out a few things, as there is absolutely no reason to tell you about the Dove extra sensitive soap bar for example. 

Boots Botanics Instantly Hydrating Conditioner was purchased as I was getting sick of my increasingly drying hair, however, it really didnt impress me much. Although, the bottle is attractive, the consistency as a moisturiser isnt actually that attractive. I love organic and botanical products and this really doesnt do it for me as I might as well not condition my hair - it makes no difference. 

La Roche Posay Effaclar Micro exfoliant Toner which I have already raved on about in one of my other posts. I love it, such a good product and I will definitely repurchase. Love.It.

Fudge Hothed Violet which is another one of my favourite products. It is no secret that I am not a natural blonde (dirty roots a-hem) and this product works so well by eliminating the yellow tones and adding a purple tint which makes the hair look whiter. Its a really thick foam, a bit like purple whipped cream. It has gorgeous smell and it works so well at keeping my soft hair in the right place whilst making my hair look whiter and more platinum. 

Angel fish has an amazing smell of coconut but this product and I did not agree. Had it for 2,5 years(!!!) finally made my boyfriend use the rest of the product. Thats the end of it.

Batiste XXL Volume is the best (BEST) dry shampoo I have ever tried. Because it adds the volume which I would try achieve with another product like a salt water spray. This product adds a "dry" form of salt water spray, and therefore adding it whilst I get ready isnt dependant on whether or not I have dried my hair yet or if it needs to blow-dry boost in order to not get wet-bits-gone-dry. Its also good to add height to a ponytail for really soft hair. 

Tony & Guy Sea Salt and Saltwater Spray is another one of my texture sprays. I absolutely love it, its a good saltwater spray. I am not good at using them as I normally like my hair smooth and pretty but for a Saltwater spray its good. And I have tried a few. 

Bodyshop Shea Butter Body Butter its my favourite body butter. I just love the smell and how it smoothes dry skin. Enough said. 

The John Frieda Volumising spray is my product of the month. I will do a different post of it and show how I use it.. Absolutely love it.  

Hope I havent bored you. 

Z x

No7 Protect and Perfect Day Cream

Its nearly 11 o'clock and its all misty outside. This means autumn has finally kicked in. As it has gotten progressively colder, my skin has become more and more dry, its a natural process, it happens to me every year. Therefore, I have invested in a more thick cream. The La Roche Posay series which I use (link to post) has been put on the holiday shelf for a little while. 

I had received a tester after spending a silly amount of money at the No7 counter and instantly loved it. I have always used really thin facial creams and serums as this is what is normally advised for younger skin. This is rich and thick cream, something I would normally expect my grandma to use, however, I havent seen my skin so smooth and clear in a very, very long time. 

( Obviously need a bit of the cream smoothed all over my hand as well... ;) ) 

As you can see in the picture above, its really rather rich and whipped cream like, but it sinks in very quickly. The smell isnt really something to mention (as it is very regular face-cream-like) but with a £22 price tag it is a "high-end" moisturiser and is one of the best creams I have used for quite some time. 

Happy monday 

Z x

YSL Luxurious Mascara Shocking Volume

I have always loved Estee Lauder double-wear foundation, the various M.A.C eyeshadows and L'Oreal Lash Architect Mascara. 

I still decided that I would try something new and have heard so much about the YSL Luxurious Mascara Shocking Volume. A lady in work was raving on about this for so long that I was determined to find out about it. I have only ever used Faux Cils once or twice and have never been 100% impressed so have always strayed towards my cheaper L'Oreal Mascara again.

I love spider-like lashes. They have to be bold and long, and so far its performed really well. Although, I did have a tiny mishap this morning smearing it all over my eyelids after coating my eyelashes heavily. The boyfriend DID have a little laugh over me even calling me "amateur" ... Oh well, nothing to do with the mascara then. The packaging is lush, its metal, none of this plastic stuff, and its just nice to whip out.

I will admit: it smells amazing! I know this is such a weird thing to say, however, I hate the cheap mascara smell (which you btw. find in very expensive mascaras as well) and retailing at £23 I am happy to repurchase again if it continues to perform this well. I just hope it wont dry out quickly - if it doesnt, then I think I might have found my new favourite mascara :) 

Have a good weekend

Zen x

La Roche Posay Effaclar Series

I have a lot of problems with my skin.. *sigh*, but this means I try a lot of different skin products in order to find what works for me. Its not so much of a struggle in my everyday life, and a lot of people would probably tell me I was mad for classing my skin-issues as a massive problem but I do have my periods like most other young women. 

When I heard about La Roche Posay, I lived in Copenhagen with my now ex-boyfriend. Megastore Boots is not something they have over there, and La Roche was only to be found in the pharmacy - which means it was very expensive. 

When seeing my dad in southern Denmark, I went past the pharmacy to pick up some facial moisturiser (as I had stupidly forgotten mine at home) and saw there was a trial package displayed. It was basically the Effaclar duo, which is the best Serum for me in the warmer half of the year, with a small trial of the Effaclar Micro exfoliant skin tonic and a face gel wash skin trial. I hadnt tried the gel face wash which, to my surprise, is one of the best face washes I have ever tried. Only cause it actually makes you feel oil-free and squeaky clean. A lot of other face washes leave a film on your face in order to not dry you out, and this I really dont like. So as soon as I finished it (two weeks!!!) I bought a new one! The m

As you can detect in the picture at the top, I already had the micro exfoliant, which I have started and love. The small one I use for overnight stays as the big one is quite awkward to travel around with. Its quite stingy, especially if you have a scratch or a spot, do avoid these areas as it hurts! But you feel clean after using it and I dont doubt the products one little bit as they wouldnt be sold in a danish pharmacy if they werent good enough. 

Have a good day. Off back to England again now :)

Zx