Some Recent Favourites

I haven't written a collective favourites post in such a long time (these were always my favourite posts to write, I'm not sure why I ever stopped!).  This could probably also be categorised as a 'Worth the Hype' post as a lot of the products featured here have been quite hyped up in the beauty community lately. That's exactly why I love blogging, you ladies always keep me right!

Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm

I wasn't sure what to expect from this product having never used a balm cleanser before, but trusted the numerous rave reviews I had read.  Emma Hardie's cleansing balm has quickly become my favourite night time cleanser.  Firstly, it smells incredible thanks to the numerous essential oils contained within (including orange, neroli, mandarin, jasmine, cedar wood and rose). To use, I mix a 10p amount of product with water to emulsify the balm and massage it into my face.  The balm literally melts all of my make up away, which I then remove with a muslin cloth.  My skin is left feeling cleansed and moisturised.  

The whole process of using this Moringa balm feels luxurious.  From it's oil based texture to the massage techniques used to work the product into my skin, I'm left feeling relaxed in the evening.  I'm now on my second tub and can't see being without it in the near future.  However, it has made me curious about other cleansing balms - I would love to hear any recommendations you have!

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm

After failing to fall in love with By Terry's 'Baume de Rose', I turned in hope to another hyped lip product, 'Reve de Miel'.  This lip balm has such an usual texture; it's quite thick and feels slightly gritty to touch. However when applied to my lips, the product melts into a beautiful soft balm. I absolutely hate when a lip balm just sits on the surface of my lips - 'Reve de Miel' actually feels like it's doing something!  I've used this balm to prep my lips before wearing a bright lip, however I always pat it off before I apply my lip colour to help with longevity.   I also love the scent - a mixture of honey and lemon!

Urban Decay De-Slick Makeup Setting Spray

As a long time sufferer of oily skin, I have always wanted to try the Skindinavia setting sprays. When I read that Urban Decay's setting spray range was made by Skindinavia, I immediately snapped up 'De-Slick', formulated for oilier skin types.  Urban Decay claim that 'De-Slick' will help control oil, give a matte finish to the face and help make up last for 16 hours.  While I don't think my make up would last 16 hours shine free, I have seen a noticeable difference in the longevity of my make up while using 'De-Slick (predominantly a result of my skin being a lot less oily).  I normally spritz the product across my face after foundation and again when I've finished the rest of my make up.  I have quite sensitive skin so was a little wary of breakouts or blocked pores, however I've had no problems so far.  

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Primer

Another new product added to my oily skin arsenal is Kevyn Aucoin's 'Sensual Skin Primer'.  There's no getting away from the fact that this primer is expensive - for £34 you get 10ml of product.  However, it blew me away.  My foundation lasts all day (without using 'de-slick!) and without having to touch up.  It feels cooling on the face and left my skin feeling a little tacky (not uncomfortable or sticky) which seemed to help my foundation stay in place.  My pores and fine lines are minimised when using this primer and my foundation applied smoothly over the top. Kevyn Aucoin's 'Sensual Skin Primer' is probably the best I've tried - overpriced yes - but amazing.  I'm going to have to reserve it for special occasions!

L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil

   

I seem to be getting drawn more and more to oil based products and L'Occitane's shower oil is one of the best I've tried.  It is quite strongly scented of almonds and lasts well on the skin throughout the day.  It foams slightly when emulsified with water and leaves my skin feeling so moisturised (but not oily) and clean.  Since using this shower oil, I've had to use a lot less body moisturiser which I love! Especially in hotter months I hate waiting for lotion to sink in (by now you should all know my love/hate relationship with body butters) making this oil perfect for me!

Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette 

I never intended to buy the 'Naked Basics' palette and solely attribute this purchase to Megan's You Tube Channel.  Comprising of 5 matte shadows and one Satin (Venus) the 'Naked Basics' Palette is surprisingly versatile.   I have a serious lack of good quality, matte shadows in my collection making the 'Naked Basics' palette a perfect addition.  I've got a post lined up demonstrating my go to day and night time looks created with this palette - hopefully this will show just how versatile this little palette really is!

Link me up to your recent favourite posts!

Love Nicola

xx