Four years blogging: My top ten

(Image credit)

I can't believe that I have been blogging for nearly four years!

I first started this blog back in 2010. It was my way of expressing how I felt about beauty products aimed at women my own age. At the time I was writing for a national magazine aimed at women over sixty and although I had access to the latest beauty products, I never had the opportunity to write about them and express my own personal opinion, that was until I set up this blog.

You may be thinking, four years is a long time and you don’t have many followers, well I never started this blog to have ‘followers’. I enjoyed writing for me and although it was great to see that my posts were being read, I never actively promoted it.

So as a celebration of four years, I decided to give you a run down of my favourite top ten posts that I have written over the years:

1: Bare Minerals Prime Time Brightening Primer

Reading back over my early blog posts, I often wrote in non-biased way – I tried not to give too much of an opinion, which as a blogger is key. But I put this down to my journalistic background. However, I have chosen this post because this is where my love for Bare Minerals began and I was totally won over by their fantastic products that I still use them today.

2: Bad beauty habits

I chose to put this in my top ten because it was a really different blog post for me. I often don’t like to write about myself but I actually really enjoyed it in the end. It was interesting to see that I had quite a few bad beauty habits and I loved being able to share them with you all.

3: Garnier 2-in-1 Pure Active Spot Roll-On

The Garnier 2-in-1 Pure Active Spot Roll-On is an odd blog post for me to pick. When I look back over the post, I really dislike it. The images are dreadful and I don’t really delve into too much detail. However, this is my second most read post on my blog so I felt that it deserved a place in my top ten.

4: Bare Minerals Skincare

Again, my love for Bare Minerals grows and they really smashed it out of the park with their first skincare range. I absolutely loved reviewing these products and I actually went on to re-purchase the Pure Transformation Night Treatment.

5: What’s in my handbag

My very first ‘what’s in my...’ and still one of my favourite type of posts to write. I love looking at what other bloggers store in their handbags – it makes me realise that I’m not the only person who carries a lot of crap around with them!

6: My holiday saviour

This post was named ‘My holiday saviour’ because it actually was! I’m quite fair-skinned and can burn quite easily, especially on delicate areas like my nose and ears, so this product came in super handy on a previous trip to Egypt. I still have this product and won’t go anywhere in summer without it.

7: Nail decals

This was a really exciting blog post to write because it was a slight challenge getting the decals to work. If I remember right, it took me quite a few goes to finally get them spot on, and I was so impressed with the outcome. In fact, it has spurred me on to try them again!

8: The Mascara Monologues: An introduction

The Mascara Monologues was an idea that stemmed back when I was writing for living. After speaking to the girls I was working with at the time, we all agreed that we had never come across a mascara that we truly loved. So as a sub-section to the blog, The Mascara Monologues was born.

9: No More White Bits

This is an odd choice to place in my top ten, but the reason is because is that it is actually my most read post to date. Every month I get hit upon hit and I’m never sure why. Maybe a lot of people Google ‘no more white bits’, who knows, but this one is actually about a fake tan brand.

10: The best beauty products for blemishes

I chose to include this post in my top ten because it is includes one of my favourite images that I have ever taken. My lovely boyfriend bought me a new camera for Christmas and I couldn’t wait to give it go and show off the new images on my blog!

I would love to see your top ten posts, leave your links below!

Post holiday beauty haul

Okay, so the holiday blues have officially set in. This time two weeks ago I was enjoying a cocktail on a sun lounger overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Humph! So in order to cheer myself up, I took a trip to Boots to buy some much needed items.

Now while I was in Thailand, I had the opportunity to try some authentic coconut oil. Although a little smelly and by this I mean not at all like coconut, I decided that I had to buy some once I was home, which is why I picked up Garnier Ultimate Blends The Sleek Perfector Oil. I’ve really been into the whole the Argan Oil thing and I’ve heard positive things about coconut oil, so I thought it was best to jump on the bandwagon before it left without me.

Now that we’re well into July and I figured what a perfect opportunity to ditch the blusher and replace with a gorgeous glowing bronzer. Problem being my dog ate my bare Minerals brush so I was after a quick replacement. After toying between Real Techniques and Eco Tools, I finally opted for the Eco Tools Domed Bronzer brush. My reason? Because it was bigger – it was that simple.

Now this is where I get to the essentials. Nivea Daily Essentials Refreshing Facial Cleansing Wipes, a really boring product that I re-purchase at least twice a month. Writing that has reminded me that I must find a more eco (and purse) friendly make up remover. Secondly, a new mascara. In my quest to find the perfect mascara (you can follow the Mascara Monologues here) I obviously opted for something new - Bourjois Volume 1 Seconde Mascara. More about this in the next instalment of the Mascara Monologues soon, so keep your eyes peeled!

Despite not purchasing much, I came away feeling a little better that I wasn’t sat in 35 degree heat and sipping on a mango daiquiri. I guess the sunny British weather will keep me distracted for some time.

Please leave links below for your latest hauls. Or if you have any recommended products, I’d love to hear those too.

My March favourites

This month I’m keeping it short, sweet and very simple – just like the three products that I have been loving this month.

L’Oreal’s Skin Perfection Purifying Gel Wash

Recently I rediscovered my love for facial cleansers and I’m pretty sure it’s because I’ve noticed a subtle change to my skin. Since using them more frequently (rather than just a face wipe) my skin is in much better condition. This is why L’Oreal’s Skin Perfection Purifying Gel Wash made it to the top of the list.

When I’m having a particularly grubby skin day, or when I simply don’t have the time, I find myself using this product for a quick pick-me-up. The gel-like product quickly turns into foam when mixed with water and is perfect at removing everyday dirt and grime, and even stubborn eye makeup too. It is also super light and washes off easily, leaving skin feeling refreshed.

What makes this product even more appealing is the price. It’s super cheap (at only £4.49/150ml) and you don’t need much at all – just a 20p sized dollop is plenty. L’Oreal Skin Perfection Purifying Gel Wash is available from Boots £4.49/150ml.
 

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

The second facial cleanser to feature in my monthly favourites is one that may not come as a surprise to you. What was once France’s best kept secret, has now found its way into British hands and by the looks of things it hasn’t let us down.

Pronounced as me-sellaire, the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water isn't as harsh as a standard face cleanser, which is why its great for sensitive skin. It also acts as a toner too, meaning that it becomes two skincare steps in one. The clever bit is the science behind it - like a magnet, the cleansing agents capture and lift away dirt from the skin meaning that you no longer have to scrub deep down to remove all of your make-up and daily dirt. 

I absolutely love this product from Garnier. It's so simple and extremely cheap to use - I picked up this one for £4.99 for 400ml in Boots. It's certainly worth the money and will last a heck of a long time too. 

Last but not least is the Stronger Nail Polish from Rimmel. 

Over the last month or so my nails have taken a bit of a battering. I have been applying, removing and reapplying nail polish like it is going out of fashion, which has meant that my nails have become really dry and brittle as a result.

Before heading out on Saturday night, I applied a layer over the top of normal polish. Although this was completely by accident (there was me thinking it was a top coat) and completely ruined my polish, I couldn’t help but notice how strong my nails were when I removed the colour. So after removing I applied it again on its own and a week later my nails are in the best condition they have been in a long time. They’re stronger and look ten times healthier, plus I’m bridesmaid for my friend on Thursday so this stuff has been a god-send. 

I wouldn’t advise applying on top of your normal polish though as it is in fact a heavy duty base coat. Enriched with calcium and Keratin, it adds strength to weak nails and helps to increase their strength against further damage. The Rimmel Stronger Nail Polish is available from most cosmetic stores (£4.49/7ml).

Garnier Moisture Match: Shine be Gone

I’m not one for bad mouthing beauty products on my blog, because I believe that everyone’s opinion is different. Just because I didn’t like the product, doesn’t mean that you won’t either. So I’m more about giving an honest opinion and sharing the positives and the negatives, rather than just the negatives. Needless to say, the reason I am blogging about this product is because I’m interested in hearing your views and opinions, because I didn’t seem to get on with it too well.

Not that long ago Garnier launched a new product to add to their collection, Garnier Moisture Match. I’m usually quite picky when it comes to a face moisturiser, but what attracted me to this one was the fact that there were five different moisturisers to choose from: Protect and Glow, Start Afresh, Goodbye Dry, Wake me Up and Shine be Gone - each one individually aimed at a different skin type and concern.

Now if I’m honest, I could do with every single one of those moisturisers, but I decided to opt for the mattifying one, simply because I’m prone to a shiny t-zone now and again and I would do anything to stop myself looking like a china doll in photographs! (If anyone has any products to recommend for this, please do!)

After using the moisturiser for the first time, I was quite surprised at how tacky it felt. Instead of sinking into my skin, it felt like there was a layer sitting on top, almost like a primer. But then again, maybe what mattes the skin, but I don’t know. When it came down to shininess, I didn’t notice a huge difference in how my skin looked, which is what made me believe that it wasn’t doing its job properly. Maybe I should have used the product for longer, but I just couldn't get used to the feeling on my skin. 

I think the reason I'm still pining onto the idea of this product is because I absolutely love the concept. Maybe I'll just have to try another one from the range instead. 

Have you tried any of these moisturisers? If so, how did you get on? 

What's in my make-up bag 2012

Back in 2011, my make-up bag looked like this. Considering we're three months away from 2013, I thought I was due another one and to see how much my make-up routine has changed - apparently not so much. I guess I'm a creature of habit.

First of all my make-up bag is Cath Kidston and was bought as a Christmas gift from my beautiful Sister. It's a lot smaller than the last one I had, so I've had to cut down on a few products, leaving room for just the essentials.

L'Oreal Nude Magique BB Cream (Light Skin Tone) - My current make-up essential, you won't see me go a day without this product. To read my full review of this product, click here.

L'Oreal True Match Touché Magique Concealer - I have never, ever found an under eye concealer that works so well with my skin tone and hides those pesky dark circles as good as this one. It's a fantastic product and almost a cheaper version of the Yves Saint Laurent's Touché Éclat. Price, £7.19 from Boots.

Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector Daily All-in-One BB Cream (Light) - I bought this quite a while back, back when I wanted to try a BB cream that wasn't going to cost me the earth. I loved this as a starter product, but wanted a BB cream that did a little bit more. I still keep this one in my make-up bag for days when I don't feel like wearing too much make-up. Available from Boots at £7.49.

Powder FX (E40) - I was given this at a press show around about a year ago and unfortunately I haven't kept any details on the brand. For the last year I have sworn by bareMinerals, but after running out and realising I had no other foundation, I fell towards this. The lovely gentleman who I spoke to at the time, matched my skin perfectly, which I guess is why I haven't stopped using it. The only problem is it doesn't last that long and by midday, it's worn off. But the consistency is lovely and feels ever so light on the skin.

Benefit 'that gal' Brightening Face Primer - I received this as a sample from a magazine. It smells amazing and feels really light and as a primer itself, I think it's okay. I haven't really used it enough to get a full grasp on it yet. Full sized product cost £21.50.

bareMinerals Prime Time Brightening Pearl Eyelid Primer - I haven't yet used an eyelid primer that trumps this one, but if you have any to rival, let me know. It helps make your eyeshadow pop and won't budge at all. To read my full review, click here. Price, £16 for 3ml.

Rimmel Glam Eyes Liquid Eyeliner (black) - I believe that every woman should own a liquid eyeliner. It's an essential product for creating a completely different look in one sweep. The great thing about this eyeliner is the size of the wand - it's quite long, as is the brush, which makes application really easy and seamless. A must have product of mine that I have been buying for years. Price £5.29.

Bourjois Eyeliner Pencil (black) - I think this product has been discontinued because I can't seem to find it anywhere. But needless to say, it's pretty much a standard eyeliner pencil. Stays put for most of the day, but tends to bleed under your eyes. Price is unknown.

L'Oreal Volume Million Mascara - I don't often buy a mascara more than once, but this one has been an exception to the rule. In fact, I think I have bought this twice over. What I love about this mascara is the wand and how well it coats all of your lashes.

Barry M Nail Polish (shade NP318) - One of my favourite Barry M nail polish shades, slightly too bright and summery for the Autumn months, so I will be swapping this with a darker navy or deep red shade instead. Price, £2.99 from Boots.

Clinique Instant Life for Brows (soft brown) - Quite possibly one of the best eyebrow crayons I have used, it's really subtle and easy to apply. The highlighter on the other end of the crayon gives a great lift to the brow bone too. Available in three colours, soft blonde, soft brown and deep brown, and available from Clinique for £15.

Benefit Posy Tint - This was a mini sample from a magazine, that I'm still trying to scrape the remnants from. It's a great little product and add a slight pink tone to your cheeks. This is a lip tint too. Price for the original size is £24.50.

Tools

(Unknown brand) eyelash curlers - A must-have for any girls make-up bag. I don't go a day without using these!

Vie at Home Double-Ended Eyeshadow Brush - Unsure of price

bareMinerals Wet/Dry Shadow Brush - £13 from bareMinerals

bareMinerals Flawless Application Face Brush - £19 from bareMinerals

Please link me to your make-up bag posts - I love having a good nosey!

Garnier Pure Active 2-in-1 Spot Roll-On...Part two

First things first, I've been a bad beauty blogger recently as I've been a bit absent. I've been incredibly busy at home and work, so massive apologies.

Moving swiftly on...I told you I'd put the Garnier Spot Roll-On to the test and surprisingly I think it worked. Not as quick as I'd originally hoped, but it certainly reduced the appearance of the spots I had - major thumbs up! The colour was a bit of a pain, but it was easy to look past - no one commented on the orange blobs on my face, so it couldn't have been too bad!

Garnier Pure Active 2-in-1 Spot Roll-On...Part one

Today I managed to get my hands on a brand new edition to the Garnier Pure Active range - the 2-in-1 Tinted Spot Roll-On - said to treat spots whilst offering coverage too. Now this product couldn't have come at a better time. In the last two weeks my skin has taken a shining to quite a few spots, with four currently residing on the side of my nose - not a good look.

I haven't managed to put this concealer/zit-zapper to the test yet, but I'm planning on using it for a week or so (as it says visible results after 1 day) so I will get back to you once I've tried and tested it. But what I can tell you are the basics...

To start with the colour does look a little dark and possibly too orange but when applied to the face it gives good coverage and isn't majorly obvious that you're trying to cover an imperfection. Also it looks quite matte, without feeling too heavy or looking chalky.

Here's a couple of swatches of what it looks like on my hand...


I will write another post to tell you whether or not it lived up to its promises.

The Pure Active 2-in-1 Roll-On is available sometime during this month for £7.49.