Half term may have been two weeks ago but it has taken us this long to write about all the products we bought - there really are a lot of them! Time to put the kettle on - its going to be a long one...
Ruth Crilly's Colab
I think it is perfectly safe to say that I am completely and utterly in love with Colab dry shampoo. I only bought one of the travel size bottles but next time I'm in Superdrug I will definitely be picking up the other four travel size bottles to test all the fragrances out. And after that, well lets just say that there will be nothing stopping me picking up a full size version of my favourite one. I have 'New York' which is a gorgeous, fruity fragrance and I love smelling my hair when it's on. It leaves no white residue behind - which, to me, is just magical - and doesn't feel greasy or heavy on your hair at all. I definitely recommend this to everyone, whatever your hair type.
I think it is perfectly safe to say that I am completely and utterly in love with Colab dry shampoo. I only bought one of the travel size bottles but next time I'm in Superdrug I will definitely be picking up the other four travel size bottles to test all the fragrances out. And after that, well lets just say that there will be nothing stopping me picking up a full size version of my favourite one. I have 'New York' which is a gorgeous, fruity fragrance and I love smelling my hair when it's on. It leaves no white residue behind - which, to me, is just magical - and doesn't feel greasy or heavy on your hair at all. I definitely recommend this to everyone, whatever your hair type.
Style Expertise Salt Spray 02 exclusive to Superdrug
I've been looking at salt sprays for a long time. Thinking about them on those days when my hair has lost that 'umph'. I picked this one up in Superdrug when it was 2 for £4 (we both got one) and, not only does it smell so good - like a walk along a beach on a windy day - but it gives your hair amazing volume without making it look 'puffy' or static. So if I ever see another salt spray at a god price it will be in my basket for a comparison.
I've been looking at salt sprays for a long time. Thinking about them on those days when my hair has lost that 'umph'. I picked this one up in Superdrug when it was 2 for £4 (we both got one) and, not only does it smell so good - like a walk along a beach on a windy day - but it gives your hair amazing volume without making it look 'puffy' or static. So if I ever see another salt spray at a god price it will be in my basket for a comparison.
Studio London Eye Pencils
We didn't actually go into Superdrug intending to buy more eyeliner pencils but somehow it happened! We were on our way to the tills and having a little browse of the Christmas gift sets when my fellow blogger discovered these. 6 eyeliner pencils for £4.00 - complete bargain! I love the colour range of this set - there is glitter black, black, brown, navy blue and plum - I have always wanted a blue and purple eyeliner so discovering these was just great. I also think that the blenders on the end of each pencil are a great addition as they blend the colour out so well and can help to create a perfect smokey eye.
We didn't actually go into Superdrug intending to buy more eyeliner pencils but somehow it happened! We were on our way to the tills and having a little browse of the Christmas gift sets when my fellow blogger discovered these. 6 eyeliner pencils for £4.00 - complete bargain! I love the colour range of this set - there is glitter black, black, brown, navy blue and plum - I have always wanted a blue and purple eyeliner so discovering these was just great. I also think that the blenders on the end of each pencil are a great addition as they blend the colour out so well and can help to create a perfect smokey eye.
Rimmel Kate Moss lipstick 111 kiss of life
When reorganising my make up collection I realised that I didn't actually own a classic red lip colour - I know, disgraceful! I knew that I really wanted a Kate Moss lipstick from Rimmel so I thought that I may as well buy a red from the Kate Moss collection. Now the problem was which shade of red to buy. I eventually went for a classic pillar box after lots of deliberation and testing on my arm and I am very pleased with my choice. This red goes with just about everything and is great when you want a pop of colour. As for the formula, it is very moisturising which does not always happen with lipsticks as they can be quite drying. It's not got a complete matte finish but it's not really glossy either - it creates a nice finish of the two together. It's not the most long lasting lipstick but it certainly isn't the least either, and its so easy to apply I don't think this really matters.
When reorganising my make up collection I realised that I didn't actually own a classic red lip colour - I know, disgraceful! I knew that I really wanted a Kate Moss lipstick from Rimmel so I thought that I may as well buy a red from the Kate Moss collection. Now the problem was which shade of red to buy. I eventually went for a classic pillar box after lots of deliberation and testing on my arm and I am very pleased with my choice. This red goes with just about everything and is great when you want a pop of colour. As for the formula, it is very moisturising which does not always happen with lipsticks as they can be quite drying. It's not got a complete matte finish but it's not really glossy either - it creates a nice finish of the two together. It's not the most long lasting lipstick but it certainly isn't the least either, and its so easy to apply I don't think this really matters.
MUA Mosaic Bronzer
This is a beautiful bronzer. Not only does it have an amazing pattern, but is the perfect bronze shade to reach for all year round for a general, all over glow, just swirling the whole lot up together and dusting it on. But, it doesn't just give you that glow. Oh no. For a more contoured look below the cheek bones and around the temples, just focus more on the darker, matte shades with a smaller angled brush. And for that extra, flushed glow focus on the more pink, shimmery shades swept up and over the apples of the cheeks. So.. it is proved to be a very versatile bronzer.
This is a beautiful bronzer. Not only does it have an amazing pattern, but is the perfect bronze shade to reach for all year round for a general, all over glow, just swirling the whole lot up together and dusting it on. But, it doesn't just give you that glow. Oh no. For a more contoured look below the cheek bones and around the temples, just focus more on the darker, matte shades with a smaller angled brush. And for that extra, flushed glow focus on the more pink, shimmery shades swept up and over the apples of the cheeks. So.. it is proved to be a very versatile bronzer.
Maybelline Color Drama Intense Velvet Lip Pencils in red essential
This is another versatile product. Being a lip pencil, it is very easy to line and fill your lips for a light all over daytime shade and very quickly. But for a more intense red, more night time shade you can line and fill them in, pressing it in to create a base and then 'colour' all over the top to create the intensity you wish. The only bad thing with this product, is the lasting power. You put it on, go and drink a cup of tea and it's gone. Your lips and naturally nude again!
This is another versatile product. Being a lip pencil, it is very easy to line and fill your lips for a light all over daytime shade and very quickly. But for a more intense red, more night time shade you can line and fill them in, pressing it in to create a base and then 'colour' all over the top to create the intensity you wish. The only bad thing with this product, is the lasting power. You put it on, go and drink a cup of tea and it's gone. Your lips and naturally nude again!
Neutrogena Visibly Clear Oil-Free
Now this moisturiser is an old favourite of mine. I think it was one of those products my mum bought me because it was on offer. But I loved it. It was hydrating and oil free, even though at the time I wasn't really bothered about that aspect. I picked this up in Boots because moisturiser... oil free... old favourite... . What's not to love?!
Now I wouldn't say I've fallen 'out-of-love' with this product, it just seems different to how I remember it, although I am aware that my skin has changed a lot. It's still moisturising and, if packaging tells no lies, it's still oil free (it certainly doesn't feel slippery on my skin). But, it does feel very cool on my face, almost a slight stinging sensation after I've cleansed and applied this, and this tends to inflame spots a little. Now I am aware of this, I use it in the evenings and it is a great hydrating formula, so perfect to allow to settle into your skin overnight.
Now this moisturiser is an old favourite of mine. I think it was one of those products my mum bought me because it was on offer. But I loved it. It was hydrating and oil free, even though at the time I wasn't really bothered about that aspect. I picked this up in Boots because moisturiser... oil free... old favourite... . What's not to love?!
Now I wouldn't say I've fallen 'out-of-love' with this product, it just seems different to how I remember it, although I am aware that my skin has changed a lot. It's still moisturising and, if packaging tells no lies, it's still oil free (it certainly doesn't feel slippery on my skin). But, it does feel very cool on my face, almost a slight stinging sensation after I've cleansed and applied this, and this tends to inflame spots a little. Now I am aware of this, I use it in the evenings and it is a great hydrating formula, so perfect to allow to settle into your skin overnight.
Yes To Grapefruit Correct & Repair Brightening Facial Wipes
I was really looking forward to trying these out after loving the wipes from the Yes To Cucumber range (see my review here) but I have to say I was a bit disappointed after the first use. They don't remove make up like their cucumber equivalent and when I wiped them over my eyes they made them sting a bit. However, after using them a few more times I am warming to them. I find that I only use these on occasions when my face looks more tired than normal or is in need of exfoliating but they do brighten my skin up a bit and leave it looking clearer. As a once every week or so wipe they are fine but I would not recommend them for daily use or if you have especially sensitive skin.
I was really looking forward to trying these out after loving the wipes from the Yes To Cucumber range (see my review here) but I have to say I was a bit disappointed after the first use. They don't remove make up like their cucumber equivalent and when I wiped them over my eyes they made them sting a bit. However, after using them a few more times I am warming to them. I find that I only use these on occasions when my face looks more tired than normal or is in need of exfoliating but they do brighten my skin up a bit and leave it looking clearer. As a once every week or so wipe they are fine but I would not recommend them for daily use or if you have especially sensitive skin.
Seventeen Va Va Voom waterproof mascara
After telling myself that at half term I really needed to buy a waterproof mascara I ended up getting two! Well, a girl can never have too many mascaras, can she? I love the way this formula and applicator gives so much volume and curl to my outer lashes and still manages to coat my inner lashes perfectly. You do have to be careful though to not put too many layers on as it can start to clump after more than a couple of layers. So far the waterproof-ness of it seems to be pretty good as I haven't had any black streaks on my face due to the great British weather! Definitely one I would recommend as there are at least two more versions of it (black, blackest black and I think there may be a brown too) so there is something in the range for everybody.
After telling myself that at half term I really needed to buy a waterproof mascara I ended up getting two! Well, a girl can never have too many mascaras, can she? I love the way this formula and applicator gives so much volume and curl to my outer lashes and still manages to coat my inner lashes perfectly. You do have to be careful though to not put too many layers on as it can start to clump after more than a couple of layers. So far the waterproof-ness of it seems to be pretty good as I haven't had any black streaks on my face due to the great British weather! Definitely one I would recommend as there are at least two more versions of it (black, blackest black and I think there may be a brown too) so there is something in the range for everybody.
Rimmel Extra Super Lash with curved brush
Already owning the Rimmel Extra Super with the normal brush and absolutely loving it (I would definitely say that it is my favourite mascara to date), I had to repurchase it in half term as mine was almost finished. Although when I went to pick it up I discovered that Rimmel had bought out the same formula but with a curved brush. It took a bit of deliberating but eventually I decided to try out the curved brush and I am extremely glad I did. The shape really fits to my lashes and gives them even more volume and length. I am extremely pleased with the new addition to my mascara collection and the only thing I think could make this mascara even better would be to make a waterproof version.
Already owning the Rimmel Extra Super with the normal brush and absolutely loving it (I would definitely say that it is my favourite mascara to date), I had to repurchase it in half term as mine was almost finished. Although when I went to pick it up I discovered that Rimmel had bought out the same formula but with a curved brush. It took a bit of deliberating but eventually I decided to try out the curved brush and I am extremely glad I did. The shape really fits to my lashes and gives them even more volume and length. I am extremely pleased with the new addition to my mascara collection and the only thing I think could make this mascara even better would be to make a waterproof version.
Miss Sporty Just Clear Mascara
I'm going to be honest, I'm not exactly sure why I wanted a clear mascara but I bought one as part of a 3 for £5 on Miss Sporty. It doesn't create quite the same effect as a black mascara but that's to be expected. The formula isn't too wet or sticky which I was very pleased about. I think I've used it more on my eyebrows than my eyelashes so far but as long as it's getting used it doesn't matter, right?
I'm going to be honest, I'm not exactly sure why I wanted a clear mascara but I bought one as part of a 3 for £5 on Miss Sporty. It doesn't create quite the same effect as a black mascara but that's to be expected. The formula isn't too wet or sticky which I was very pleased about. I think I've used it more on my eyebrows than my eyelashes so far but as long as it's getting used it doesn't matter, right?
Miss Sporty Studio Lash black liquid liner
I went searching for a liquid liner. But I think I was being quite fussy. I wanted it pure black, with just the right little applicator - length, material, size...! In the end I plumped for this one from Miss Sporty and, so far so good. It pretty black and it brilliant for filling in those little triangles of the cat flick. The only down-fall with this one is that it tends to catch the ends of your lashes when you are applying, but I've found it helps to put it on, then leave it to dry and then curl your lashes because otherwise that makes them even more in the way.
I went searching for a liquid liner. But I think I was being quite fussy. I wanted it pure black, with just the right little applicator - length, material, size...! In the end I plumped for this one from Miss Sporty and, so far so good. It pretty black and it brilliant for filling in those little triangles of the cat flick. The only down-fall with this one is that it tends to catch the ends of your lashes when you are applying, but I've found it helps to put it on, then leave it to dry and then curl your lashes because otherwise that makes them even more in the way.
Natural Collection clear mascara
I bought this mainly to set my brows and for only £1.99 it's a bargain. In my opinion, a clear mascara is a clear mascara. Nothing more. Nothing less. So long as it's not sticky or runny then I'm happy! This is better than the previous clear mascara I had (I believe it was Chilli Pepper?) for setting brows because this one doesn't begin to hurt your forehead by the end of the day because it's too stiff.
I bought this mainly to set my brows and for only £1.99 it's a bargain. In my opinion, a clear mascara is a clear mascara. Nothing more. Nothing less. So long as it's not sticky or runny then I'm happy! This is better than the previous clear mascara I had (I believe it was Chilli Pepper?) for setting brows because this one doesn't begin to hurt your forehead by the end of the day because it's too stiff.
Barry M Show Girl Extra Volume black mascara
This was a freebie when you spent £7 or more on Barry M. Now I wasn't planning on buying anything from Barry M, but when I saw this offer I just couldn't bare to leave without it! Firstly the packaging. Oh-My-Goodness! It is by far the nicest I own. It feels so expensive and the shiny pink and silver just adds to it. But the product itself doesn't disappointment either. The spoolie is really big and rounded so gives brilliant volume and coats your lashes just perfectly without clumping at all.
This was a freebie when you spent £7 or more on Barry M. Now I wasn't planning on buying anything from Barry M, but when I saw this offer I just couldn't bare to leave without it! Firstly the packaging. Oh-My-Goodness! It is by far the nicest I own. It feels so expensive and the shiny pink and silver just adds to it. But the product itself doesn't disappointment either. The spoolie is really big and rounded so gives brilliant volume and coats your lashes just perfectly without clumping at all.
Barry M duo pencil sharpener
I did look for a cosmetic sharpener but when I saw this one from Barry M, well, it got me £2 closer to my free mascara target! And it's such a nice design. It does what it says really, it sharpens my pencils. It doesn't catch like some sharpeners and it has 2 different size options which is a bonus!
I did look for a cosmetic sharpener but when I saw this one from Barry M, well, it got me £2 closer to my free mascara target! And it's such a nice design. It does what it says really, it sharpens my pencils. It doesn't catch like some sharpeners and it has 2 different size options which is a bonus!
Seventeen CC cream covers & corrects, matte radiance, SPF 25 in light
I originally went into Boots intending to buy the Seventeen BB Cream but they had run out of my shade so I decided to buy the CC cream instead. I'm almost glad that they didn't have any BB left because I really like the CC and I don't think I would have considered it if they'd had the BB. It's a high coverage cream that doesn't feel too heavy on your skin and gives it a lovely matte - but not too matte - finish with a bit of glow thrown in for good measure. Now I own the BB as well I've been making some comparisons and so far there aren't many differences between them. The BB certainly feels lighter on the skin but that's because the coverage isn't quite as high. You do have to be careful to not put too much of either of them on though, especially the CC, as even the shade light is quite dark compared to other brands' versions of light.
I originally went into Boots intending to buy the Seventeen BB Cream but they had run out of my shade so I decided to buy the CC cream instead. I'm almost glad that they didn't have any BB left because I really like the CC and I don't think I would have considered it if they'd had the BB. It's a high coverage cream that doesn't feel too heavy on your skin and gives it a lovely matte - but not too matte - finish with a bit of glow thrown in for good measure. Now I own the BB as well I've been making some comparisons and so far there aren't many differences between them. The BB certainly feels lighter on the skin but that's because the coverage isn't quite as high. You do have to be careful to not put too much of either of them on though, especially the CC, as even the shade light is quite dark compared to other brands' versions of light.
Miss Sporty So Matte Perfect Stay foundation
As a first foundation, I think this is pretty good. It seems easy to apply nicely and has quite a light coverage so it's hard to go wrong with. I accidentally picked up shade 002 light instead of ivory but I think this might have been a happy coincidence because I think that if I would have picked up the lighter shade it would have made me look pasty and a lot of bronzer would have been needed to fix that. Although, it does have a matte finish so can sometimes look slightly dull, but with a bit of blush and bronze you're set to go.
As a first foundation, I think this is pretty good. It seems easy to apply nicely and has quite a light coverage so it's hard to go wrong with. I accidentally picked up shade 002 light instead of ivory but I think this might have been a happy coincidence because I think that if I would have picked up the lighter shade it would have made me look pasty and a lot of bronzer would have been needed to fix that. Although, it does have a matte finish so can sometimes look slightly dull, but with a bit of blush and bronze you're set to go.
Miss Sporty Cream Blush in 002 coral flush
So far in my life, I have encountered blush in terms of barely pigmented, Natural Collection and magazine freebies. But then along came this - and it all changed! This cream blush (more of a liquid consistency) is very pigmented and you only need the tiniest amount to create a subtle, windswept perk to your cheeks in the autumn. I felt the shade coral flush was more natural for this time of year but may well have to pick up the brighter shade once we get into summer (the thought just seems so unrealistic when it's dark at 4.30pm).
So far in my life, I have encountered blush in terms of barely pigmented, Natural Collection and magazine freebies. But then along came this - and it all changed! This cream blush (more of a liquid consistency) is very pigmented and you only need the tiniest amount to create a subtle, windswept perk to your cheeks in the autumn. I felt the shade coral flush was more natural for this time of year but may well have to pick up the brighter shade once we get into summer (the thought just seems so unrealistic when it's dark at 4.30pm).
Natural Collection corrector stick
I haven't used this much yet, but I had to pick it up because every time I look for it, it's always out of stock! The couple of times I have used it, it has done the job - toned down redness under my makeup. But the fact that I have forgotten about this product most days in my makeup routine shows that really it's nothing special to rave about. Although I will try and remember to use it for a week or so and will let you know if any revelation occurs.
I haven't used this much yet, but I had to pick it up because every time I look for it, it's always out of stock! The couple of times I have used it, it has done the job - toned down redness under my makeup. But the fact that I have forgotten about this product most days in my makeup routine shows that really it's nothing special to rave about. Although I will try and remember to use it for a week or so and will let you know if any revelation occurs.
Barry M matte nail paint in crush
I don't need anymore nail polish - she says. I couldn't resist. It brought me £3.99 closer to that free mascara and the colour was just so autumnal and beautiful (it also matched the trousers I was wearing to perfection!). It's also a matte formula which I haven't tried before but I have faith in Barry M that it will be worth my punt.
I don't need anymore nail polish - she says. I couldn't resist. It brought me £3.99 closer to that free mascara and the colour was just so autumnal and beautiful (it also matched the trousers I was wearing to perfection!). It's also a matte formula which I haven't tried before but I have faith in Barry M that it will be worth my punt.
Barry M nail paint in vintage violet
So she still doesn't need anymore nail polish! But I did it again. This was on my mental list because I read review on this shade by Lily Pebbles and was instantly in love, just from the picture!
So she still doesn't need anymore nail polish! But I did it again. This was on my mental list because I read review on this shade by Lily Pebbles and was instantly in love, just from the picture!
Crush On You 3D texture in cosmic black
I bought a couple of Miss Sporty nail polishes a while ago and really liked them so when I was looking for a third item on my 3 for £5 deal I thought I would pick one up. I haven't actually worn this yet but I did let my sister borrow it for Halloween and really liked the effect. The brush shape makes application easy and it does have a bit of a rough 3D texture to it. This shade is very sparkly but the black also tones it down so that its wearable for almost every occasion. I can't wait to try it out myself!
I bought a couple of Miss Sporty nail polishes a while ago and really liked them so when I was looking for a third item on my 3 for £5 deal I thought I would pick one up. I haven't actually worn this yet but I did let my sister borrow it for Halloween and really liked the effect. The brush shape makes application easy and it does have a bit of a rough 3D texture to it. This shade is very sparkly but the black also tones it down so that its wearable for almost every occasion. I can't wait to try it out myself!
We are yet to try out these shades but I'm sure we will be letting you know how we get on with them.
Miss Sporty Oh Tan So Fine Bronzing Powder
I think that this bronzer is definitely one for the summer rather than the winter as it is very shimmery and gives your skin a glow that is much more suited to summer. I have, however, been using the lighter shade on occasions when I feel that my complexion could do with a bit of added colour (trust me, it needs it) and am very pleased with the overall effect. This powder glides nicely onto the skin and blends out easily meaning that it doesn't look too harsh or streaky. I also really like that you can blend the two shades together on your brush to get the right combination for your skin type. This item is definitely one that will be getting way more use come May/June time.
I think that this bronzer is definitely one for the summer rather than the winter as it is very shimmery and gives your skin a glow that is much more suited to summer. I have, however, been using the lighter shade on occasions when I feel that my complexion could do with a bit of added colour (trust me, it needs it) and am very pleased with the overall effect. This powder glides nicely onto the skin and blends out easily meaning that it doesn't look too harsh or streaky. I also really like that you can blend the two shades together on your brush to get the right combination for your skin type. This item is definitely one that will be getting way more use come May/June time.
MUA lipstick shade 11
There is one word to describe my feelings for this lipstick - LOVE! Firstly, the shade is a perfect my lips but better and I can easily get away with this at our 'non-makeup-liking' school. But then. Then there's the magic. I haven't shown it in the picture here, but.. to you and me the bottom just looks like a solid piece of acrylic plastic in the colour of the lipstick, right? But no. Unscrew it and you will find a little pot of the lipstick formula!!! Perfect for lip liner or just to use when you've run out in the bullet. And for £1. Well, can you beat it?!
There is one word to describe my feelings for this lipstick - LOVE! Firstly, the shade is a perfect my lips but better and I can easily get away with this at our 'non-makeup-liking' school. But then. Then there's the magic. I haven't shown it in the picture here, but.. to you and me the bottom just looks like a solid piece of acrylic plastic in the colour of the lipstick, right? But no. Unscrew it and you will find a little pot of the lipstick formula!!! Perfect for lip liner or just to use when you've run out in the bullet. And for £1. Well, can you beat it?!
Rimmel Fix & Perfect Pro primer
Finally, I picked up a primer as I thought with oily/combination skin, foundation needs a base. And as always, trusty-ol' Rimmel gave me this one. It claims to 'smooth, resurface, brighten, matify and protect' your skin. Well I think it does. It provides a great base for foundation or even just concealer and it lasts all day, even in high temperatures (i.e the kitchen!). Great product once again from Rimmel!
Finally, I picked up a primer as I thought with oily/combination skin, foundation needs a base. And as always, trusty-ol' Rimmel gave me this one. It claims to 'smooth, resurface, brighten, matify and protect' your skin. Well I think it does. It provides a great base for foundation or even just concealer and it lasts all day, even in high temperatures (i.e the kitchen!). Great product once again from Rimmel!
We told you it was going to be a long one!
Next week we will be doing our evening skincare routine (it will be shorter, hopefully) so look out for that.
Stay beautiful x
Next week we will be doing our evening skincare routine (it will be shorter, hopefully) so look out for that.
Stay beautiful x