GlamGlow BubbleSheet Mask

by lovesandluxuriesJanuary 22, 2018

If you haven’t already heard of GlamGlow, let me fill you in.

Glam Glow was designed specifically for A Listers who were in need of a product that would make them instantly camera ready. It was soon used by most of Hollywood and eventually was available for retail in 2011. Their Super Mud treatment became a success in retail and earned plenty of beauty awards. GlamGlow have continued to grow their brand adding more treatments which has had just as much success.

When this first popped up on GlamGlow Instagram account I couldn’t wait to try it. A quick and easy sheet mask promising to detox my face in 3 mins… Take my money!

As tempting as it is to try their other new products I really have enough to get through at the moment. Beside, every purchase comes with 2 free samples so that’s enough to keep my skincare addiction going for now.

So what is this new bubblesheet?

oxygenating deep cleanse mask with green tea works to reveal glowing, deeply purified skin in just three minutes. Upon application, this bamboo charcoal-infused sheet mask activates an oxygenating and tingling 3D bubbling experience that instantly invigorates, detoxifies, and removes face makeup.

So the instructions are to dampen face then apply, smoothing it down. Leave for about 3 mins. After you have removed the mask, massage in the remaining bubbles. Rinse and pat dry face. Easy enough.

The mask was a little tingly while it was on. Not uncomfortable and its not like its on long. There wasn’t really a smell to it. Its a creamy foam texture so was nice to massage in. Its a quick and easy face detox with no mess.

My face feels like its had a good clean. I wouldn’t say it was glowing but I do think it would be really good for oily skin types as my skin feels a bit matte. I would still use a moisturiser as my skin is a bit dehydrated generally – just not straight away. Maybe leave for about 20mins to breath a little. If your wanting to apply make up make sure you use a primer. Im sure it will give you a nice smooth base to apply products too.

For £7 its not a terrible price. Im not sure I love it enough for it to become an essential part of my skincare routine every week but, its something I would use again. Its one of my favourite detoxifying sheet mask’s. And I have used a few…

The Ordinary

by lovesandluxuriesJanuary 14, 2018

The Ordinary are part of a larger company, Deciem- Focusing on advanced functional beauty. The brand come together to create effective, honest skincare at honourable prices. Their prices start at £3.90 for a primer and go up to around £15 – something for everyone’s budget.

They first become popular with the launch of their Retinoids, mainly because of it’s price £4.20 – £11.90 for 30ml . They quickly sold out and left many beauty addicts desperate to get their hands on some. But the brand took it in their stride, completed the ever increasing pre-orders and continued to increase their brand.

They don’t waste their time and money on fancy sounding additives to make it smell nice or useless ingredients to maker it sound more innovative. They continue to believe in CLINICAL FORMULATIONS WITH INTEGRITY meaning, they produce affordable, proven skincare with honest chemistry proven to work.

On each page on their site they clearly display whats not in it ie no Parabens no Silicone etc complete transparency with their ingredients and cost’s. They also do not test on animals. Which, is why they do not sell in china as sadly in order to qualify for selling they insist on their own testing which involves testing on animals. – good on you Deciem!

A quick run down of the products I have been using

100% Plant Derived Squalane

£5.90

30ml

Is a non – comedogenic hydrator suitable for all skin types.

For me this was the first product I had used. I liked everything about it. Since the first time using it my skin was instantly more hydrated. No dry itchy, flakey skin, just healthy, glowing skin. It is easily absorbed into skin so doesn’t feel too greasy. I was a little concerned about my make up slipping but with a primer I found it was no problem at all.

Its also the only thing I really use on my hair. It helps to protect hair from heat and breakage, making it super soft and shiny. I will be honest.. I Don’t really use it on my face as much now, If I do, its more likely to be in the evening but that really is as I am now using the Hyaluronic Acid

Caffeine Solution 5% +EGCG

5.80

30ml

I have not stopped using this since I got it. Both AM and PM I honestly think it reduces under eye puffiness. Its no miracle cure and it doesn’t do much for the darkness under eye but concealer can fix that.

You only need 1 drop under each eye and is quickly absorbed into skin. For 30 ml this will last a long time

Argireline Soluition 10%

£5.50

30ml

Light weight serum to ease fine lines on forehead and around eyes. Apply a couple of drops both AM and PM. So I find this works OK. Its not my fav product from the ordinary but I do still continue to use it.. Maybe I need to be using it longer to see more results. I paid £5.50 and based on my experience of their other products I am more then happy to continue to use it. If this is something you are using let me know what you think.

Hyaluronic Acid 2%+B5

£5.90

30ml

I wrote bout this amazing little product in my last blog post What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Lactic Acid 5%+HA

£5.50

30ml

For very mild exfoliation. But, not to be used on sensitive or peeling skin. The Ordinary suggest you don’t use indirect forms of skin exfoliation while using this product.

You use it daily, ideally at night as it can leave skin UV sensitive due to the Alpha Hydroxy Acid – limit sun exposure for a week after using. Which can make it ideal for winter skincare routine. You can add it to other skin care until skin builds a tolerance.

So if i’m honest, I have only used this once. I really didn’t like the smell of it. Although I don’t think it would put me off from using it , I just haven’t fully committed to it as I still continue to use other exfoliating products. Will keep you updated when I do decide to try it.

High Adherence Silicone Primer

£3.90

30ml

This essential uses advanced adaptive silicones to act as a matte, hydrating, blurring primer for makeup that looks higher in definition and adheres for longer.

I have not used another primer since. It feels lovely to put on and instantly smooths and blurs. £3.90 is so cheap, you can afford to try it without it making a dent in your bank balance. I don’t really have anything else to say except YOU NEED TO TRY THIS… did I mention the price!

Niacinamide 10%+Zinc 1%

£5

30ml

High strength vitamin and mineral blemish formula. This is not going to magically make your acne disappear but what it will do is maintain skin to help with congestion and help to balance skins sebum. As soon as you use it skin instantly becomes matte.

I think generally my skin has been looking clearer and brighter since using The Ordinary products. If you find you have oily skin this is going to be the product for you. I don’t use it every day now, probably every other day as my skin is more dehydrated then congested.

As I mentioned earlier. My skin has been looking better since using these products. They are a little hard to understand initially but the site does have a Regime guide so its worth spending a few moments looking at it to see what your skin would benefit from. I also have seen great customer service on their social media accounts. Any questions posted quickly come with a educational response from the company. Any question, head to their Instagram page and comment.

Have you used any of the products and what do you think?

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

by lovesandluxuriesJanuary 7, 2018January 7, 2018

No doubt this is a question you have been asking for a while now as it is being used in more skincare products and its doing the rounds on social media. But What is it? What does it do? and should you be using it?

I will keep it short but, Firstly, its not as scary as it sounds. I think the word acid makes it a little daunting. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a substance found naturally in our bodies. It has mainly be used to help skin heal from wounds, burns and skin ulcers. However the beauty industry quickly adopted it and starting using it as lip fillers. Now its integrating its way into our daily skincare routine.

It is claimed it can help fight signs of aging – over time fine lines and wrinkles will become less visable. Skin is said to be more hydrated, plumper and youthful.

Many products claim to help with hydration but they are usually made with less then 1% HA and the molecule its self is too large to be absorbed into the skin. Rather then hydrating and working its magic, the product is just sitting on the surface of the skin and drawing out the moisture.

So, to sum it up, HA is a product that will hydrate and plum up skin. It is very much worth adding as part of your skincare but you really do need to find a good one

I would 100% recommend

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2%+B5

£5.90

30ml

This Formula uses three forms of HA with crosspolymer, to offer multi-depth hydration & visible plumping without drawing water out of the skin

Look at the price again £5.90 – and delivers results. Its very concentrated so you only need 1-2 drops. Use in the morning and evening before heavier creams. Or, add to other formulations or water.

It is a little tacky when you first apply but don’t worry. Its absorbs into the skin after a few mins and leaves your skin soft, plump and brighter. Since I have been using this I have noticed how much more hydrated my skin is. It doesn’t feel tight and itchy like it normally does and I haven’t had any dry flakey skin patches on my nose or cheeks. If i’m honest I haven’t noticed much difference in my fine lines. But I will be paying more attention so, fingers crossed

Its alcohol,oil, silicone, nut and cruelty free. And, suitable for vegans.

I cant say enough good things about this company and their products but don’t worry, that will all be in the next blog post. But this is a great place to start with The Ordinary products or just a new updated addition to your daily skincare routine.

Soap And Glory Face Mask Review

by lovesandluxuriesNovember 12, 2017

The Soap and Glory brand have been around since 2006 and became quickly known for their iconic super plumping SEXY MOTHER PUCKER gloss. The brand covers bath, body, make up, hair and skincare. Available on line or exclusively to boots and a price range that will suit any budget.

Ive never tried any of their skincare and thought would probably be easier to start with their masks.

I have combination skin. so I get dry patches on my cheeks, forehead and some times on the top of my nose. But I also have oily patches too.. On my chin and sides of my nose. Nothing too distressing.

The masks I thought would suit me better were…

Purifying De-clog mask

2 applications

£4

The mask promises to lift out all the dirt and impurities that can clog skin.

Firstly, the scoop thing is ridiculous just chuck it out, use a brush to get it on evenly. Not too thick you don’t want it dripping everywhere for the first few mins before it sets. Its bright pink and there is so much product in these little pods.

It was fine on. No itching or tingling. I left it on half an hour. Wait for the mask to completely set before trying to take it off. It will make it easier to come off in one motion.

It does pull a little when taking off but nothing more then is to be expected. It all came off in one go so that made life a little easier.

I wasn’t blown away by how much it removed. It does help to lift the dead dull skin off but it didn’t seem to remove any blackheads. Ive used other products before that were slightly more expensive but I think done a better job. So for me I wouldn’t buy this again.

Radiance Boosting Mask

Sheet mask

£3.50

‘multi tasking sheet mask solution for dull-tired and stressed-looking complexions’. Who doesn’t need that in their life?

Pretty simple as with all sheet masks. Carefully unwrap and apply to face.

well, mine wasn’t that easy. I really struggled to unwrap the mask and ripped it a few times. I managed to get it pieced on and it stayed on the full 20 mins. But it was so fiddly I nearly just threw it away.

It was fine on. No tingling or itchy and it did have a strong smell of grapefruit. Considering it had ripped in a few places I am surprised it stayed on!

Im not a fan of this mask. I didn’t feel it done anything except enlarge my pores.

My skin didn’t feel radiant, its just felt like loads of product sitting on my skin. I used a couple of cotton pads to remove some of the product then, massaged the rest into my skin, After about half hour my skin felt a little dry and itchy so, I put my usual moisturiser on.

Under Eye Brightening Hydrogel Patches

£3.50

Soap and Glory’s promises to ‘smooth, revitalise, brighten and moisturise’.

We are all looking for a product that will magically take away the puffy darkness from under our eyes but I have to say I am not very optimistic as the other masks are not for me. I was going to put it in the fridge before using it as that will help to reduce puffiness but I forgot…

So open up the packet and remove the under eye patches from thier little platic holder. Remove the backing and stick to your under eye area. These stayed in place for the whole half our I was very impressed. They were no problem, forgot they were on.

Out of the 3 products I brought this was the best one.

They were easy to use and I did feel they reduced some under eye puffiness. I didn’t put any make up on after using these as I was having a no make up day and the results lasted all day. I would get these again. They were very cheap, so great for any budget, available locally at boots and they actually do what the packaging promises.

Overall I probably wouldn’t try any other skin care products from Soap and Glory. I did like the under eye patches but don’t think the other mask’s were any good for me.

Have you tried any Soap and Glory products? would you recommend any?

Lush Cosmetics Review

by lovesandluxuriesSeptember 10, 2017September 12, 2017

Its not easy to resist going in lush when you walk past. well, that is unless you are coughing uncontrollably fighting for breath before you even see the shop sign. I am one of those people who can’t resist. It’s crammed full of natural, cruelty free handmade cosmetics for every part of your body from your scalp to your feet. The staff are super friendly and full of knowledge. The only problem I have is deciding what to get.

I love love love the fresh face masks and have done a blog on them before (use this link to read it.) so, this time I wanted to try a few different products. After god knows how long smelling and testing everything this is what I got …

Jason And The Argan Oil Shampoo Bar

£6.95

Argan Oil – Repairing and Antioxidant

Organic Rose – Balancing and Restoring

Sicilian Lemon Oil – Uplifting and Cleansing

Geranium Oil – Balancing and Toning

As soon as the lush lady said it had rose in it I was sold, It smells amazing. She continued to promise it would strengthen and add shine to my hair but if im honest I decided I would love it just for the smell.

So the idea with bars are you can either lather up in your hands then apply to hair or just use the bar straight on the scalp. They are a little like soap bars. You want to keep them dry after use though. The water kind of activates them so the water will eat away at the bar. I got one of the lush tins to keep it in (£2.50) Not only to keep it dry but to keep it clean and is perfect for if your travelling.

I found the best way to use it was in the shower. I would soak my hair then turn the shower off and use the bar. It foams up quickly and smells amazing!! After a good scrub, I put the bar back in the tin and rinsed off. If you have short hair you could use the bar straight on your scalp. For longer hair I would recommend lathering up on your hands then using on roots and ends. You are causing less friction which helps to prevent breakage.

I have a dry scalp and find a lot of products can dry my skin out even more , making it feel tight and itchy. I found with this shampoo bar my scalp didn’t feel tight or itchy at all. My hair felt amazing when I was drying it off. silky soft shiny hair. It felt really clean and I have noticed since using this shampoo bar my hair can go an extra day without washing it! The only down side was I couldn’t really smell it on my hair after. Other then that I really like this. Would I buy it again? Im really not sure if im honest. Not that I didn’t like it, I just like to try other products. But I would definitely recommend it. Looking forwards to trying the other Lush shampoo bars.

Seanik Shampoo Bar

£6.25

Nori Seaweed – Nutrient Rich

Iris Moss Gel – Softening and Soothing

Lemon Oil – Cleansing and Uplifting

Fine Sea Salt – Mineral Rich

So.. I didn’t buy this for me. Just as well because my scalp HATED it. It was itchy straight after I washed it. One tiny little scratch and my hairline looked like a snow storm. Back in the shower…

But as I said I didn’t buy it for me. The lady in the shop recommended it for Dreadlocks. Well, you have to get your other half something right? It helps to soften the blow when you tell them how much you spent.

He prefers natural, organic products that don’t leave any residue. We’ve ticked all those boxes by just buying from Lush. He used the bar straight on his scalp and a little down the length on the dreads, Good scrub and a long, long rinse.

The first thing we both noticed was how clear and hydrated his scalp was! It had already made a difference. His hair was fresh and clean without any sticky residue left on the dreads. What else is there to say. I hated it, he LOVED it!

Damaged Hot Oil Treatment

£6.50

Organic Avocado – Rich and Conditioning

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Moisturising and Protecting

So who hasn’t damaged their hair through excessive bleaching and use of heat with straighteners and tongs. My hair really does need all the help it can get. This treatment promises to moisturise and help to strengthen.

Its a one use pre-shampoo product that you need to activate with water. All you need to do is add hot water and stir.

Wait for it to cool to a comfortable temperature and apply to dry hair.

After about 20 mins shampoo and condition hair. I didn’t use all the product so I put the lid on and it will keep for up to 4 weeks.

It was really easy to rinse out of my hair. I noticed while I was drying it how soft it was. It was a lot less tangled on my more damaged bits of hair then it is usually is.

My hair felt Amazing.. I could not stop touching it all day. It had a faint smell to it and was super soft and shiny.. soo shiny. My scalp feels good. Its not tight and itchy. Even after a few washes it felt really soft.

I really liked this. I would get it again and use after I have had it coloured. Cant wait to try their other treatments

Foot Soak And Fancy Free

£3.95

Sea Salt – Rich in Minerals

Irish Moss Powder – Conditioning and Softening.

French Lavender oil – Calming and softening.

There is nothing worse then wearing pretty shoes that show hard skin build up on your heels. I hate it. So its essential you have regular pedicures to keep feet looking their best.

Find a bowl that will fit both your feet in then add water. You want the water to be at a temperature you can relax in. Find a good vlog/programme you can watch then add the foot soak. I broke it up so it would dissolve quicker.

Its definitely relaxing. Perfect excuse to do nothing.

After about 5 mins take out one foot at a time and use a foot file on areas that need it. Put feet back in for as long as the water is warm. Once finished pat feet dry.

My feet are so soft! Im not saying its going to magically remove your hard skin build up but it will help by softening the skin making it easier to remove.

Its a good product for a bit of home pampering and it does everything it promises. I wouldn’t say it would be a new essential to my beauty treatment collection but well worth trying.

Golden Handshake Hand Treatment

£2.95

Organic Avocado – Rich and Conditioning

Rosewood Oil – Anti septic and Up Lifting

Murumuru Butter – Protective and Moisturising

Argan Oil – Repairing and a Antioxident

This is another water activated treatment product. Designed to hydrated dry, hard working hands. I don’t really look after my hands. so they could do with a little pampering.

Find a bowl big enough to fit both hands, add enough hot water to cover the product and stir until its a smooth, thick and creamy consistency. Like with the other products wait until its cooled to a comfortable temperature then sit back and relax…

Before you rinse off massage into hands.

My hands felt lovely and soft and stayed like it for a few days.

So This was my least favourite product. It was nice enough and my hands did feel lovely but, Im just not sure its a product I would use again.

Bunny Moon – Jelly face mask

£6.95

Honey – Antiseptic and Moisturising

Rose oil – To Balance and Restore

As I mentioned before I love the fresh face masks So im really looking forward to trying one of the jelly masks. I picked bunny moon as this one softens and moisturises.

Take a little product and work a little with your fingers to a paste. Apply to face and leave for 10 mins.

The first time I used this I wet my hands first. BIG mistake!

Its got a nice subtle smell of Turkish delight. Once you’ve worked it a little it becomes a smooth thick paste which is easy to apply. Because its a thick paste you need a face cloth to take it off with.

My face is really soft and hydrated. This is really good for dehydrated skin. My dry, patches of skin on my cheeks and nose have gone. I use it a least once a week and the patches havn’t come back since. I wouldn’t say its my favourite Lush mask but there are so many . Just not sure which one to try next…

So thats what I thought. Any recomendations? let me know if you’ve tried any and what you think of them

Superdrug Face Mask Review

by lovesandluxuriesDecember 23, 2016December 23, 2016

So we have all seen the masks in superdrug haven’t we. The 99p ones. A variety of clay’s and cocktails promising to cleanse and soften. But are they really worth bothering with. There are 19 different mask’s. Peel off, Clay based or self heating. There are so many to choose from so here is a little review of the ones I tried.

Before applying any of these masks I made sure all my make was taken off and I washed my face with a face wash.

I usually put my face mask’s on in the bath. Not only is it more relaxing but less mess when applying/taking them off.

When removing mask’s, add a little water and massage skin to break the mask up a little. Use plenty of clean warm water to rinse.

Manuka Honey Peel Off Mask.

Nourish and moisturise – for sensitive skin

Looking forward to trying this one as its Manuka based. Its smells sweet as soon as you open the sachet. Its sticky like you would expect a honey based product to be. Apply a little at a time otherwise it can be messy getting the product out of the packet. Other then that it applies nicely. I put on a even layer like you would usually do with a peel off mask. I felt it slightly tighten on my skin during the 20 mins it was on but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

I found it difficult to remove. I had to rinse the mask off rather then peel and it just went a bit gloopy with the water. I wouldn’t say my skin really looked any different to be honest. Its not one i will try again.

Orange and Black Lava Exfoliating Mask

Gently polishes and brightens skin- for all skin types

This is a grey clay looking mask with a thick consistency. It has got a few grainy bits but doesn’t seam very harsh. It smells a little like oranges.

I didn’t like this mask at all. From the start it made my skin feel very hot and itchy.

It was only on for a few mins then i rinsed it off with plenty of water.

The next day my skin was a little dry and flakey in some places.

so unfortunately I don’t have much to say about this one, I wont be getting it again again.

Chocolate Orange Self Heating Mask

Deeply purifies and hydrates skin – For normal to dry skin

This smells amazing, you can really smell the orange oil. You can feel the heat from the mask as you massage it in. The heat it generates is supposed to open your pores to allow the mask to draw out impurities. The heat didn’t last long but was lovely. It didn’t feel itchy or tingly on.

It was one of the easier ones to get off as it didn’t really set. however, if you put too much on it can drip down. Which is the problem I had, it kept dripping down onto my lips.

Overall it was a pleasant mask. I didn’t feel my skin looked much clearer but my skin did feel a little tighter. My skin does feel more hydrated and any dry patches of skin I had before are now gone. I didn’t even apply a moisturiser after as my skin felt so soft .

I would use this one again especially as its only 99p. And did I mention it smell’s just like Terry’s chocolate orange.

Sugar And Spice Self Heating Mask

Brightens and softens skin-ideal for all skin types.

After the last self heating mask I am looking forward to this one. I love the smell of this.It looks and smells just like caramel. As soon as you start to massage into your face it starts heating up and its so nice…

It wasn’t a problem while it was on. It didn’t drip, or burn its been really nice. So far this has been my favorite one of these Superdrug masks. If i’m honest I don’t think my skin looked much different maybe a little brighter. It feels lovely. I wont need to use moisturiser. I would use it again but its not going to be my go to face mask.

Cucumber Cooling Mask

Refreshes And Soothes Skin – For sensitive skin

Its a very strong fresh cucumber smell as soon as you open the sachet. Its thick like a clay and applies nicely but I don’t really have much to say about it to be honest. My complexion doesn’t look clearer or brighter. I dont feel refreshed. Not one i will get again.

Dead Sea Mineral Mask

For a clearer vibrant complexion – Normal to oily skin

When you finally get the packet open the first thing you notice is the smell of lavender. Had I of realised in the shop this was lavender I probably wouldn’t of picked it up. I normally avoid Lavender like the plague but as I’ve succeeded in opening the packet im going to use it. It’s a light grey colour the same thick consistency you get with clay based masks. It goes on easily and is very soothing.

You can feel the mask drying and tightening slightly. It dries to a white chalky looking mask. Its not the easiest of mask’s to get off but that’s expected with clay based products.

My skin is looking clearer, but it does feel very dry and a little sensitive. I Didn’t hate this mask but I also wouldn’t use it again.

White Chocolate Mousse Mask

Cleanse and deeply nourishes skin – For normal to dry skin.

It promises a radiant complexion,I am happy to try this one.

Eww not sure I like the smell of this. Its not the worst smelling mask I’ve used it just doesn’t smell like I was expecting it to.

Hated it!

Same problem as the Orange and Black Lava Exfoliating Mask. Its not even a tingly sensation like you would get with something minty. This just burns! Took it off straight away. I have a dry patch of skin on my chin,sides of nose and forehead. I know everybody is different but no, just don’t try it. Promises a radiant complexion HA by BURNING YOUR SKIN OFF!

So overall what do i think of these mask?

Well, the sachets are very generous with the amount of product you get in them. There is easily enough for 2 applications. They are only 99p and at the moment there is an offer of buy 1 get second half price that’s pretty good value for money. They are not going to clear up acne or repair damaged skin but there was a couple I really liked and would buy again. Like the self heating masks.

But there was also a couple of masks that really were uncomfortable on, and 1 of those left me with dry patches that lasted a few days. I know everybody is different and some are more sensitive then others but i’ve never had a reaction like this to any skincare. I’m not sure I would try the other masks now. So if you have sensitive skin perhaps only try the masks that are for your skin type. Like i said i would use the self heated masks again but I didnt love them enough to be my go to fav face masks.

Let me know what you think of them xx

Beauty Essentials Under £5

by lovesandluxuriesOctober 23, 2016

We all love a good bargain and money never stretches as far as you want it to so, following my last post My under £10 Favorites i’m sharing my must have’s under £5.

You’ll have to keep an eye on my post or hit the follow button (wink wink) for updates where I will be adding more essentials under £5

Vasaline Lip Therapy

Weather your a matte lipstick kinda girl or love a glamarous gloss. Dry, flakey lips are not a good look . These are perfect to instantly smooth and hydrate your lips.

Stick or tin. Original, Aloe, Cocoa, sugar coated or my fav with a slight tint, rosey.

Original and Aloe are great for this time of year when you have a cold and your nose gets sore and flakey on the sides. Rub a little vaseline to re hydrate. Vasaline has so many uses, You can use it on your hair to smooth split ends, helps remove make up from clothes, great to use for cuticle care or around your nail to stop the nail varnish drying on your skin its really worth keeping one in your bag. And at the moment Superdrug are running an offer. 2 for £3. Direct link in Shop My Feed

Barry M Nail Paint

From £2.99 – £4.99

Classic,Gelly, Coconut Infused and Speedy in a variety of colours, textures and sparkles.I would be surprised if you didn’t find a colour you’ll fall in love with. For me Raspberry is my Favourite. So much so I have just finished a pot. And I never usually make it to the end!

You’ll need to apply two coats as with all brands. And make sure you let the first coat dry before applying the second. Some colours are more dense then others, but nothing another coat won’t fix.

If you use a base and top coat you will get a week out of your nails but that obviously depends how much washing up you have to suffer during the week.

For what your paying I think they are great buys, even if you just want your nail colour to last one night! Cheaper then getting a manicure for your girls night out.

Teatree Oil

£2.99

So I briefly spoke about Tea Tree oil in my Manuka Honey post.

Its a natural antiseptic derived from the Australian native plant

Its most common use is to treat acne. I add a few drops to most of my skin care products particularly moisturiser I use at nighttime to give it extra power. If you suffer from bad acne this could be your best friend. I also tend to mix it with Manuka Honey , the miracle product as a face mask.

Another great tip for acne prone skin is to add a few drops to clean warm water and dip in some cotton pads. Squeeze out extra liquid and use all over the face (mind your eyes) as a toner.

Tea tree oil has many other usefull benefits. If you have a dry itchy scalp this will help clear it up. You can add it to coconut oil/milk or i just add a few drops to your shampoo.

The antibacterial properties will also help to get of headlice. Its well worth getting this oil. It will fast becone your go to product.

Lush Teatree Tab

£1

Ive spoke about this lush little treat in a previous post Lush Cosmetics Facial Review

Its made from Tea Tree, which is antibacterial and antiseptic and AloeVera which helps to rejuvenate and hydrate

Drop into a bowl of hot water and steam your face for 10mins. By steaming your face you open up the pores.Which then allows the oils to become absorbed. Follow with a face mask . Once the water has cooled down transfer into bottles and use twice a day as toner. Its such a great product and only a pound. Perfect excuse to at least try it. and then you can continue to use it for a good few weeks after. Its such a good product, I would pay so much more for it and would get one everytime I pass a lush store.

H&M Masks

£1.99

Such a variety of masks available.

I haven’t tried all of them but have to say I wasn’t impressed until I tried this one, the Manuka, chamomile and jasmine blossom for combination skin.

So you want to be applying to clean dry skin. The perfect time would be after a hot bath or shower or a 10 minute facial steam. That way your pores are already open to allow the product to work. Apply a nice thin layer. I find with peel off mask, if I apply them too thick they don’t peel off properly.

Leave on 15-20 mins

I like peel off masks, I like to see what its removed and WOW! is all I can say about this mask. This is the best peel of mask I have used.It removed a lot, more so from my nose. My skin was a lot clearer, brighter and very soft. I don’t know how well it would work without steaming my face first but for £1.99 I will be getting a couple next time i’m in H&M.

I couldnt find this mask on their website but i’ve included a store locator in my Shop My Feed.

Colour Tattoo 24hr eyeshadow

£4.99

So I thought I would try out the ON AND ON BRONZE. Its such a beautiful metallic shade, very pigmented. Its a cream shadow but applies beautifully.There are 6 shades available and they make the most beautiful smokey eye looks. They do remind me of the Mac Paint pots but a lot cheaper.

I find I use my finger rather then a brush to apply the eyeshadow if I want a softer finish and it blends really well. For more colour, use a brush. I love them. will definitely be adding more to the collection.

Dr Bronner castille soap

Prices starting from £1.99 for 59ml

9 varieties (including teatree)

A combination of Organic extra virgin coconut, Olive oil, jojoba, hemp and essential oils.

The uses for this magic soap are endless.The ecologically friendly soaps can be used on body, face or hair. There is even a fragrance free if you have sensitive skin.

I mostly use mine to wash my hair and make up brushes. You don’t need much product. A little goes a long way. After a good rinse they leave no residue. Which is perfect for beauty sponges.

You really can use this product on ANYTHING inc washing the floor. All just depends on how diluted it is.

Its really worth trying. Once you have you’ll love it and will use it on everything!!

So that’s it for this post,but remember this is a ongoing post.

Follow me on twitter and/or Instagram for when the post will be updated with more essentials under £5 xx

My under £10 Favorites

by lovesandluxuriesOctober 16, 2016October 16, 2016

I’m obsessed with skincare and make up. But with so much choice its hard to decide what to buy when your looking for a new product. Drugstore products are easily accessible and not too expensive. Superdrug is definitely my go to for drugstore products. Don’t forget to use your beauty card to collect points and register on line for exclusives offers and discounts that might not be available in store. My recommendations are drugstore based with 1 online purchases but they are all under £10

L’oreal Nude Magique

£9.99

5in1 BB cream. Available in light, medium and dark.

I love this! Its a white cream product that transforms to a lightweight foundation on application.. Its amazing. I use the medium complexion and it evens out and smooths my complexion leaving a dewy glow.

Its great on its own as a light coverage foundation or perfect as a base under your usual foundation. It has a spf 20 and 24 hr hydration. For the price its well worth investing in.

Just remember if you are using this as a base, you wont need to use as much foundation.

For me i’m sold on this product and will add this to my make up bag as an essential.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer

£5.99 available (on line) in 6 shades

Gel concealer no waxes or fillers to help even complexion.

I love this concealer, well actually there are 2 I love both by Maybelline but, this one does exactly what it promises without leaving a massive dent in your bank balance.

Its a wand applicator which I find gives me better control of where i’m putting the product and how much. It blends out perfectly with a damp beauty sponge. Maybelline are killing it with their affordable easily accessible products and I would recommend you at least give this a try.

Maybelline Age Rewind

£7.99 available in light or nude

So the difference I would say between this and the Fit Me concealer is that this concealer is more pigmented and probably better suited for mature skin.. If you’ve got tired looking eyes from having a heavy night this is going to be your hangover cure for your eyes. Like the other concealer it blends perfectly with a damp beauty sponge. It is a wind up, soft sponge applicator but the only down side to this is that there is always a little product left that you cant get to as you’ll see in the photo. but other then that a really good product. A permanent resident in my make up bag.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

£5.99

looking for flawless finish from concealer and foundation? Look no further. Even with the most expensive products we all know its about application and this sponge makes it fool proof.

So you need to dampen the sponge until it doubles in size. squeeze out excess water and dab/stipple . yep that’s it. Flawless application of makeup and perfectly blended contouring.

This sponge has a tip to help cover imperfections and blemishes, Flat edge for eyes, nose and contours and a rounded edge to blend larger areas or great for blending in cheek tint.

You can apply liquid foundation or powder with it and its just perfect.

As with all make up brushes you should be washing this after every use to prevent build up of product and germs. Squeeze excess water and let air dry.

Real Techniques advise you to replace after no more then 3 month, which is affordable at only £6.99

They have increased their miracle complexion range now including Mini eraser sponges (£5.99) and Miracle sculpting sponge (5.99) that is designed with 6 surfaces for easy contouring which can be used wet or dry.

L’oreal Pure Clay Detox Mask

£7.99 10 applications

‘The creamy texture detoxifies the skins surface by cleansing deep into the pores, leaving the skin looking clarified and beautiful without drying it out’

I wasn’t very optimistic about this mask. I had already tried the Pure Clay Glow Mask and wasn’t blown away.

But wow. I can honestly say this mask does everything L’Oreal promises. My skin was brighter, clearer and smoother. So much so my other half noticed and commented!

It is recommend to use 2-3 times a week however i would only use twice a week.

With deep cleansing masks you don’t want to over do it. If you strip the skin of its natural oils it can have the opposite effect.It will either become dry and flakey or your sebaceous glands will try to compensate by producing more natural oils.

Currently they are on offer at superdrug for £5.25. so even more reason to try this mask now and save a few pennies

Kiko Extra Sculpt Volume Mascara

£8.90

So this is a on line purchase but you also have free standard shipping so what you save on postage you can spend on some other beauty goodies (your welcome )

I go between 2 Mascaras. This one and a stupidly expensive higher end masacara. I’m not keen on false lashs but want a mascara that will give me the same effect. This one I love right down to the last application left. Kiko promise ‘ Volumising mascara for fuller looking lashs with a panoramic effect ‘

The creamy texture applies beautifully and is build-able without leaving you with clumpy spider leg looking lashes.It has am ‘hourglass’ wand which perfectly catches all lashes and coats in mascara leaving you with lovely long dark lashes.

use small horizontal zigzag movements.

Its Paraben and fragrence free and i have no problem with my sensitive eyes.

Remember all make up products have a shelf life. This mascara has 6 months shelf life and at £8.90 the price rivals most drugstore mascaras.

Maybelline Master contour V Stick

£6.99

Another Maybelline product (told you they were killing it)

This comes in 2 shades. Half for contouring and half to highlight making it super easy to apply. If you like a heavy dramatic contour this is not the product for you.unless you want to layer it and add a matte bronzing powder on top. If your looking for a light contour to accentuate your features or are new to contouring then this is perfect.Its a creamy matte texture which is easy to blend out so your not left with harsh lines and lasts all day.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

£8.99

Another great buy from Real Techniques and one i use daily. I apply my BB cream or primer and stipple using this brush. Same again with my foundation. Stipple product on and buff out with this brush. Then i apply concealer and then use the Miracle Complexion sponge all over for THE perfect flawLess finish.

I love this brush. Its not too heavy to use and is perfect for both liquid or cream products. The synthetic bristles are so soft and easy to clean and they air dry back to shape with no effort. It is a real must have brush. once you’ve tried it I would be surprised if you buy any other foundation brush.You can get the Real Technique range in Superdrug although they might only hold the best sellers in your nearest store.check out on- line first in case they are running an offer.

Rimmel Match Perfection Loose Powder

£6.99

This Translucent lightweight loose powder is perfect for every skin type.

Blends in perfectly as its translucent. It doesn’t leave skin cakey or the powder visible on top of the skin.

The only down side I found was if its a really hot day you will probably need to re apply.

The shelf life on this is 30months! its well worth £6.99.

Rimmel Stay Matte Foundation

£5.99

I wasn’t sure of this foundation at first. I don’t like mousse textures. I usually find they are hard to blend or don’t react well with some bb creams or primers. But I didn’t have any problems with this one. It doesn’t feel greasy on, its very lightweight. If you like matte foundations you’ll love this.

Its a really great price for 30ml. I do find Rimmel colours are really warm, so take some time matching your skin colour.

So they are my under a tenner must haves. Next week i’ll do a run down of the best buys under a fiver (that’s right under a fiver!).Check out my Shop My Feed for direct links to everything i’ve spoken about. Let me know if use or try any of these or if there are any you would recommend trying xx

Loves and Luxuries

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Soap And Glory Face Mask Review

Lush Cosmetics Review

Superdrug Face Mask Review

Beauty Essentials Under £5

My under £10 Favorites