IT Cosmetics CC Cream Review

It's hard to believe that there may be a product waiting in the wings to snatch the crown from Estée Lauder's iconic Doublewear Foundation... but I think I might just have found it... In all honesty I don't think I will ever feel comfortable not to have a bottle of DW on my makeup shelf, reaching for it for those special occasions BUT Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ is the product I've been reaching for this Summer and is now my must have base.

What IT Cosmetics say 

Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50 is our #1 best-selling, colour-correcting cream that delivers 7 benefits all in one! This multi-tasking hero could possibly be everything your skin needs in one easy step: full coverage foundation and anti-ageing with SPF50 that brightens and hydrates while camouflaging skin imperfections. Our skin-loving CC+ Cream diffuses the look of wrinkles, minimises the appearance of pores and gives you a beautiful-looking complexion. Ideal if you’re looking for full coverage makeup, hydration and younger-looking skin. Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream is available in original, illumination and oil-free matte finishes.

My thoughts 

I use the original version in shade Light. My skin type is normal/combination and I am yellow toned, usually wearing one up from the lightest shade. This shade is perfect for me.

This does everything that it promises. From the useful design of the tube with an easy pump dispenser, one small pump and you get enough to give perfect coverage. The texture of the cream is serum like and blends beautifully and seamlessly into the skin so it looks just like your skin but better. For those who have a keen sense of smell, this CC Cream has a very light herbal scent. Full coverage, it covers blemishes, redness and imperfections. It feels hydrating on the skin, skin looks smooth and the foundation makes skin have a healthy and luminous glow without looking greasy. I love it.

A blindingly brilliant 10/10 I can't think of a single fault with this product. Have you tried it yet?

Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ costs £31 

Time Of Your Life (TOYL) Beauty Subscription Box Launches

Time Of Your Life (TOYL) is a new beauty, lifestyle and content subscription box aimed at the over 40's woman. As soon as the press release hit my inbox I knew I had to find out more...

I was sent the June box and what a box it is!

What I love about this box is that it isn't just your bog standard beauty box that throws in random garish eye shadows in shades you will never use, or a glitter polish that is ok for the odd night out but will probably then remain in a box until it gets chucked out in the annual clear out. Real thought has been put into the contents, I was delighted with what was included in the first box. Not only that... subscribing to the box means that you have access to podcasts in all manner of subjects.

As an example ,the June podcasts are

Beauty Guru Liz Earle on the Menopause

Dr Marilyn Glenville on Nutrition after 40 

Make Up Over 40 with A-List make up artist Lee Pycroft. 

The links get emailed directly to you to listen to at your convenience.

Inside the box, the contents total an incredible £90 -

Meno Multi Support Nutritional Supplement for Women - 60 tablets, One Month Supply rrp 
£25.78 

Dr Glenville has recreated a special multivitamin and mineral supplement tailored to help you through the menopause and support strong, healthy bones.

Nurture Replenish Collagen Boosting Serum 30ml rrp £17.99 (full size)

This is a creamy serum, it smells absolutely gorgeous and I cannot wait to try it out. As I have hit 40 I have noticed that my skin is crying out for more intense care and this promises to help replenish levels of oestrogen and collagen essential for a healthy and youthful appearance.

Dr Hauschka Lemon Lemongrass Vitalising Essence 100ml rrp £17 (full size)

A wonderfully zesty bath essence that promises to moisturise and tone. A refreshing pamper experience.

The Organic Pharmacy Marigold & Comfrey Handcream 30ml £13.17 (travel size)

They call it travel size, I call it handbag size. I don't think you can have enough handcreams, I am always using mine! This one from The Organic Pharmacy is light and absorbs instantly leaving hands silky to the touch. It has a nice zesty scent too.

Bellapiere Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Charcoal rrp £16.99 (full size)

I absolutely love this eyeliner, coming in charcoal it is less harsh than black and is incredibly flattering against my green eyes. It glides on the skin for precise application and remains all day. Best of all it is formulated with pure minerals and natural waxes. Hypoallergenic.

Surprise!

That's not all,  as if you haven't been spoilt enough, each month a little something extra is popped into the box to make you go oooh!

To my delight, this month the box contained a small bar of chocolate from Willie's Cacao. The Venezuelan 72 dark chocolate blend was too good to keep for too long. I had good intentions  (honest!) of just eating a single square a day... but who was I kidding, it was so so tasty, I devoured it all in one go! What a treat, a delicious bar of intensely dark but not too bitter chocolate, who could resist?

If you want to find out more... head to www.toyl.co.uk and if you are tempted to sign up, and quite frankly, who wouldn't be, I have a special offer code for you to use.

Use JUNE18 and receive 50% off your first month's box when you take out a year's subscription



*PR Sample 

Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation Review

Oh I do love it when a new foundation is released and so was delighted when I was able to obtain a small sample to test it out... I picked up a sample of the new Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation in shade 020 (I was matched at the Dior Counter)

Dior say

EXTREME CAMOUFLAGE. FRESH SECOND-SKIN FINISH.

Full coverage

24-hour* wear
Second-skin matte finish

This fluid, 24-hour* full coverage foundation combines maximum complexion control with a natural matte finish for a result that is "Kiss-Proof. Touch-Proof. Life-Proof. All Night. All Day."

Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director for Dior Makeup, describes his view of this neo-camouflage: “Incorporated in a very fluid texture, the high concentration of pigments ensures perfect blemish correction. What’s new for such a high-coverage product is how you don’t feel or see it. The finish is fresh, and matte enough that you
don’t need powder.”

* Instrumental test. N = 20 women.

Application tip by Peter Philips - 

"This incredibly glide-on texture doesn’t set immediately and can be blended with the fingertips. Start by patting onto the areas that need correction, then smooth to blend in. If you’re looking for totally even coverage for the whole face, you can use a foundation brush. 24-hour wear means you never need to touch up."

My thoughts 

I am wearing shade 020 Light Beige which is my perfect shade.  The foundation has a delicate and pleasant perfume scent. I applied the foundation with my fingers. The foundation consists of a light fluid texture but the finish is velvety and matte. However, as you can see from my photos below, matte does not equal dull. I didn't use and I don't use a primer under the foundation and you can see that it covers the pores, smoothing the appearance of the skin completely. It also covers blemishes and red bits/ I have slight rosacea but you wouldn't be able to see once I have applied this foundation. I think my skin looks pretty damn amazing and flawless. I cannot fault this foundation and it is right up there with my favourites. 

After one hour of application and pretty much fresh on ...

After 7 hours of wear

I am extremely impressed with how well this foundation bears up to daily wear. After seven hours I think it still looks exceptionally good and keeps the rest of the makeup in place too. The only thing I would say is that the pores on my nose are slightly more visible but still pretty well concealed.

Obviously I cannot comment on the fact that it is supposed to last 24 hours but .... I would definitely purchase this foundation.

DiorSkin Forever Undercover has complete and flawless coverage, feels light on the skin and lasts.

10/10

Dior DiorSkin Forever Undercover Foundation costs £34 

Nivea Shower Silk Mousse Review

Who doesn't love a good old pamper in the bath? ... well as a busy mum of two, the bathroom is my sanctuary and I am always on the look out for gorgeous treats to make that chill out time a relaxing and indulgent experience.

Indulgence and feeling luxurious doesn't have to cost the earth as these lovely silk shower mousses from Nivea prove.

In delectable but light scents, Lemon Meringue is slightly sweet but wonderfully zesty, zingy and fresh. Rhubarb Raspberry is a fabulous concoction of sweet berry fruit but with the added tartness of rhubarb that stops it being overpowering and too sweet. I have to say both scents are just gorgeous. Shaking the can ensures the foam comes out rich, thick and firm. Lathering it over the body it covers and envelopes the skin completely with its luxuriousness. Skin is left feeling super silky and soft to touch until your next shower.

At just £2.99 for Nivea Shower Silk Mousse it's a huge thumbs up from me

*PR Samples

Staring In The Face Of 40

What does forty look like? 

Well this is me aged forty. I have spent my 39th year worrying about reaching this significant age... Forty just sounded old to me. Certain ages are to be embraced, forty to be feared. Or does it?

Reaching twenty, well I felt all grown up - it also coincided with being at University, enjoying some of the best times of my life. Travelling all over the world and well being carefree. Good times.

Thirty  - Aged twenty five I met the love of my life. By thirty, I was married - about to have my first son, we also had a mortgage and work consumed 5 days of the week.  Travel still played a major part of our lives.

By the end of my 39th year, I had stepped off the traditional work ladder. We welcomed a second son into our lives. I started a beauty and afternoon tea blog which brought me so many opportunities, more than I could have imagined. At the age of 38 I achieved a lifelong ambition - I published my first novel. Although I had planned to have my second novel released before I was forty, life had other plans. It is going to be shortly released so watch this space!

The opportunity to travel and explore the world is still there, albeit with a lot more luggage to take with us.

Forty 

Yet today, as I am a day over forty, I realise that actually nothing has changed. I may be a year older but I am still the same person. I have a few wrinkles, grey hairs and laughter lines, but that is me. It tells my story. I am grateful to have reached such a milestone age. A few of my friends sadly didn't.

I will embrace opportunities sent my way. I will actively pursue new opportunities. I will never take my health for granted. I will adore and cherish those I have been blessed to have around me. There will be ups, there will be downs but most of all... there is life.

So here's to being fabulous at forty!

Mandara Spa Oriental Retreat Collection

The latest bathing collection from Mandara Spa puts the treat into retreat. Called Oriental Retreat , it's the most delicious smelling range - with Cedarwood and Sweet Orange, it really is the most perfect blend of sweet and spice. Personally I find it to be quite a unisex scent and the husband happily agrees with me.

Mandara Spa are renowned for bringing the spa experience into your home and this new collection does not disappoint, it feels and smells far more luxurious than the price tag suggests. Oriental Retreat transports your mind and body to exotic Eastern Climes, a gorgeously sensual experience, the scent is warming, sweet and calming. All the range has been created to pamper, relax and unwind.

The Shower Gel £4 200ml  

is gentle and leaves skin feeling soft and smelling of the delicious scent inside the tube. Containing soothing aloe vera, indulgent Oriental orchid extract, and fragrant cedarwood oil, sweet orange and cumin.

The Honey Bath £10 500ml

smells slightly sweeter than the shower gel thanks to the inclusion of the honey, is really conditioning on the skin and imparts the scent across the bathroom so giving your senses the Oriental experience too. You won't want to leave the bath once you have immersed yourself in the warm, bubble filled water! Contains Moisturising acacia honey, softening rice oil, indulgent Oriental orchid extract, and fragrant cedarwood oil, sweet orange and cumin.

The Beauty Oil £7.50ml

is a multi-purpose body oil with the same delicious scent, the scent is long lasting, the oil fast drying. Can be used as a moisturiser, massage oil or bath oil for silky smooth skin. For nourished, shiny hair apply to ends of hair overnight, shampoo and rinse. I haven't yet tried to use it on my hair, but I will be.
Contains wonderful ingredients of moisturising sweet almond oil, softening macadamia nut oil, indulgent Oriental orchid extract, nourishing rosehip oil and fragrant cedarwood oil, sweet orange and cumin.

A lovely way to end a day.

Mandara Spa products are available to purchase in Sainsbury's stores.

*PR Samples

Crabtree & Evelyn Rose & White Chocolate Biscuits

Romance, flowers, chocolates - these beautifully presented All Butter Rose & White Chocolate biscuits from Crabtree & Evelyn have it all... An ideal gift to show your love this Valentine's Day.

The tin they come in is just so pretty and wonderfully illustrated. The biscuits themselves are crunchy enough to dip in your tea if you so feel inclined. In fact I brought out the Royal Albert China specially to indulge in a special afternoon tea as I knew the occasion demanded it. I felt incredibly decadent whilst daintily sipping on my tea and biting into these moreish buttery biscuits.

I am a huge, huge fan of anything rose so these rose and white chocolate biscuits grabbed my attention instantly and they didn't disappoint. These traditionally baked English biscuits are made with crystallised rose petals and pieces of white chocolate. The result is a delicate rose taste from the the perfumed flowers and the white chocolate is smooth and creamy to tantalize the taste buds with this truly romantic foodie gift.

Delicious limited edition biscuits that are the perfect addition to afternoon tea. Massive thumbs up from me.

Crabtree & Evelyn new limited edition Rose & White Chocolate biscuits cost £5 for 160G

*PR Sample

My Favourite Beauty Products Of 2015

For my favourite beauty/makeup products of 2015 I went for the products I reached out for the most in my makeup bag...and unsurprisingly the products took in my eyes, cheeks and lips!

You would have had to have lived under a shell not to notice the trend for contouring (made really famous by Kim Kardashian) and not being blessed with lovely cheekbones this has been one trend that I have been embracing in a small way.

I love to accentuate/fake my cheekbones with the extremely affordable SEVENTEEN Define & Conquer Contour Kit which costs just £5.99 from Boots. It is a really simple way of defining and illuminating the face contours and comes with a handy instruction sheet to help you.

I simply adore a good nude lippie, lord knows I have plenty in varying shades but as you can see by how much the one above has been used,  this is my favourite everyday shade and formula - Max Factor Colour Elixir in shade Simply Nude and coming in at £7.99 is the perfect price for everyday use. My lips but better.

Finally, readers of BeautySwot will know that I don't use fake lashes or inserts so I am always on the look out for mascaras and products that enhance my natural lashes... Estee Lauder's Little Black Primer was an absolute essential last year with its multi uses. Promising to tint, amplify and set it does it all. Use alone for pretty and natural lashes, use as a primer under your mascara to give the 'wow factor' to your mascara. It thickens lashes, lifts and lengthens. My favourite use is to set the mascara you are wearing with a final coat of the LBP. It makes the mascara waterproof which is absolutely essential for me in the Summer as I suffer from Hay Fever. I also used it at my sister's wedding and there were many tears of joy but my mascara stayed firmly in place. A brilliant, brilliant product. It costs £20 but is worth every penny.

So there you have it, my favourite products of 2015. What were yours?

Korres Party Survival Kit

The 'Korres Party Survival Kit of travel sized goodies contains everything you need the day after a night of partying, ideal for this time of year of endless Christmas parties and heading into the New Year. Small enough to pack into your toiletries bag these samples are generously sized for a few uses.

Contents 

Wild Rose Cream 24-hour  Moisturising & Brightening, SPF6 16ml 

I absolutely love this facial moisturiser. It smells a little bit like Dentyne Gum for those that remember it.. (cinnamon, but is blended with the delicate rose) and it does a SUPERB job of leaving skin moisturised and wonderfully bright. Honestly just after one application those who know me knew I had used something different on my skin and said I looked really well! Very tempted now by the full size version. 

A great product for the morning after the night before!

White Tea Fluid Gel Cleanser 16ml

The cleanser doesn't really have a scent as such but is a decent cleanser and it doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry, just soft and clean.

Aloe & Dittany Shampoo 40ml

This shampoo smells lovely and did a good job of washing my hair.

Guava Shower Gel 40ml

A gorgeous and fresh scented shower gel that wakes up the senses, leaving skin soft.

Basil Lemon Body Milk 40ml

Completing the lineup is this fabulous body milk. It has a wonderful citrus scent that is spiked with basil so it's not overly sweet or citrusy. It is non greasy and dries in seconds leaving skin smelling delightful and skin super smooth and soft.

KORRES PARTY SURVIVAL KIT RRP: £19.00,  available to buy online from www.Debenhams.com

*PR Sample

December GlossyBox - The Rose Gold Edition

I absolutely love all things rose gold so I adore this pretty box that is December's Glossybox - The Rose Gold Edition. 

The contents are brilliant too! 

This month's box is a collaboration with beauty blogger Really Ree and is a cracker... I have just read that it has now sold out and I can see why.

The contents - Inside my GlossyBox 

Swatches of the makeup 

The products 

Etre Belle - Golden Skin Caviar Eye Roll On 

This arrived just in time, I have just finished my eye gel. This lovely roll on is really gentle on the eyes and does a great job of hydrating and brightening the eye area up. My tired eyes are immensely improved.

So Susan Statement Skin Highlighter Pencil 

I am all about dewy, glowing skin and one way to achieve this is by using a highlighter. I honestly don't know what I did before I started using them! You can see how lovely this one is from the swatch above. Radiance is so easy with this pencil crayon. Perfect for party season or in my case... all year round.

Cheeky Chat Me Up Nail Paint 

I received shade 'Sheer Delight' which is a pretty sheer nude pink. I don't think you can ever have enough nude shades in your collection and Cheeky polishes are pretty great so I was delighted to receive this colour.

Darphin 8 Flower Nectar Oil Cream 

This sample pot of cream turning into an oil texture is billed as an overnight wonder, imparting moisture and leaving skin feeling soft, smooth and supple. I haven't tried it yet but it smells absolutely heavenly.

Essence Liquid Lipstick in Show Off 

I have swatched the lipstick above, it is a full on bright shade and packs a punch with even coverage. I haven't tried anything from Essence so will be giving it a go very soon.

Bonus product

Starskin Bio-Cellulose Second Skin Mask 

I have never used a sheet mask so I am most curious to try this one from Starskin - There are four different versions addressing various needs. I was sent the Hydrating one, ready for my red carpet appearance. Well I won't be going near a Red Carpet anytime soon but I am saving this one for a special occasion when I could do with a real boost.

*PR Sample

November Glossybox - What's Inside Mine - Lips & Lashes Edition

November's edition of Glossybox has the theme of Lipsticks to Lashes so as you would expect it contains items for both purposes...

What's inside ?

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick £7.99 

This month there is a full size lipstick from Revlon promising one of their best selling shades - As I already have the very popular red 'Fire & Ice' I was hoping for another shade to try, however I was sent the red. It is a gorgeous and full impact shade and I have worn it for Christmas Day in previous years as it is such a lovely festive red.

MUA Eyeshadow Palette £4 

This cute palette from MUA is called 'Undressed' and features 12 wearable shades of nudes and metallics. Perfect to adorn your eyes.

Eylure Natural Lashes £5 

These lashes do look luscious, voluminous and flutterworthy but personally I don't wear lashes so I shall be gifting these to my lucky sister.

Emite Diamond Heart Primer full size £25.90

I have got the 15ml travel size version of the primer. I love trying new primers so will be trying this shortly. It smells nice, has a peachy tone to it which promises to boost radiance and create a smooth finish. It also has a cream rather than silicone texture.

Royal Apothetic Body Lotion full size £14.50 

Once again this is a travel size version but it is a rather generous tube. I absolutely love the scent of this - Venetian Grove. Lactic acid will gently smooth skin and milk proteins will hydrate the skin. I am looking forward to applying this to my skin after bathing this winter... Gorgeous and light!

Final thoughts 

Although there are a couple of  items I won't be using, I think this month's box is really quite good. Makeup lovers will adore it and those who like to focus on skincare will appreciate it. I personally enjoy discovering new brands so this box gets a thumbs up from me.

What did you think?

The Body Shop Oils Of Life Collection - Review

A short while ago I was given the opportunity to review The Body Shop Oils Of Life skincare collection. It took me a little while to start the regime,  regular readers will know that I am pregnant and have been very poorly with hyperemesis gravidarum, but now I have been able to give it a good month of trying out the products and am ready to give my views.

The Body Shop say 

Give new life to your skin with our new collection infused with black cumin seed oil, rosehip seed oil and camellia seed oil, known for their supreme revitalising and repairing properties on skin. This daily routine has been created to intensely revitalise skin, revive radiance and leave your skin feeling nourished.

My thoughts 

I was really looking forward to trying these products as HG had really taken a toll on my skin and I was in dire need of something that was going to boost and support my skin so that my vitality returned.

Intensely Revitalising Essence Lotion £15 (150ml)

The Body Shop say 

This unique bi-phase oil [oil + water] formula is your essential first step after cleansing to prepare and activate your skin for the next steps of the routine.

My thoughts 

I use this lotion after cleansing and in place of my usual toner. I give the bottle a little shake to mix the oil and water and then apply to the skin. This product has quite a strong spicy scent but I am a fan of those so this doesn't bother me at all. I find the lotion really refreshing and it leaves my skin feeling soft and ready for the next step and not at all oily or tacky. 

Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil £28 (30ml)

The Body Shop say 

By infusing 3 precious seed oils from around the world, known for their revitalising and repairing properties on skin – Black Cumin seed oil from Egypt, Camellia seed oil from China and Rosehip seed oil from Chile – with a powerful blend of essential oils, we created a lightweight daily facial oil to intensely revitalise skin, instantly replenish moisture and revive radiance. Signs of ageing appear visibly reduced. Made from 99% oils of natural origin, this lightweight, quickly-absorbed formula effortlessly melts onto skin leaving a non-sticky, velvety-soft finish.

• Potent daily facial oil infused with 3 precious seed oils from around the world to give new life to your skin
• Cold-pressed seed oils to preserve potent properties and ensure the utmost affinity to skin.
• Made from 99% oils of natural origin
• Lightweight and quickly-absorbed, non-sticky finish
• Signs of ageing appear reduced - skin looks revitalised and feels more elastic and firmer*

My thoughts

The facial oil has the same spicy scent as the lotion but this scent doesn't linger on the face from either of the products. One drop does my whole face and I work it in using the massager. Skin is left feeling super soft and radiant. I use this oil twice a day and have noticed a definite change and improvement in the 'glow' of my skin. A few people have mentioned this too and this pleases me a lot :)

Once again as promised this oil does not leave an oily or sticky finish. 

*I was given both moisturisers but I chose to use the Gel Cream version - The cream version is as you would expect a heavier textured cream. 

Intensely Revitalising Gel Cream £25 (50ml )

The Body Shop say

By infusing 3 precious seed oils from around the world, known for their revitalising and repairing properties on skin – Black Cumin seed oil from Egypt, Camellia seed oil from China and Rosehip seed oil from Chile – into a dewy-fresh gel cream with illuminating micro-pearls, we created a lighter alternative to the cream that intensely revitalises skin. Skin feels instantly freshly hydrated and suppler. From the moment it touches the skin, this Intensely Revitalising Gel Cream delicately melts onto the face, leaving a fresh light finish without a greasy feel.

My thoughts 

I find the gel cream to have a lighter scent than the lotion and facial oil, it is cool and jelly like to the touch. When applied to the skin it melts like water and absorbs fast leaving no tacky residue. I really like this gel cream as part of my routine and apply it twice a day. 

The results 

Within a week I had noticed a difference to my skin after using the Oils of Life Collection. After continued use my skin is softer, smoother and more radiant. I also have noticed how much better my foundations glide onto the skin and also that I am needing to use less foundation than I was before. Overall I am really enjoying this routine and can highly recommend it. 

*PR Samples

Win With SEVENTEEN makeup! & The New Blogger Network

In the final post of the my #SEVENTEENSummer series - the first two of which you can read here & here - I am giving the chance for five lucky readers of BeautySwot.com to win a selection of 5 of the following fabulous and highly rated items from SEVENTEEN.

Cheek Stamp

Skin Wow Highlighter/Tan 

Falsifeye HD Mascara

Lip Crayon (not pictured)

Instant Glow Shimmer Brick 

See below for entry details - Please note that the giveaway is only open to UK residents 

a Rafflecopter giveaway Good luck!

In other very exciting news - SEVENTEEN have launched a new Blogger Network.  The new platform gives you exclusive content including the latest beauty news and the lowdown on new product launches. There is also a SEVENTEEN noticeboard which is accessible to those who have signed up to the Blogger Network which will feature exclusive blog posts from special SEVENTEEN partners. In addition there will be loads of tips & content advice to inspire your own posts - I have signed up and you can too by clicking here -SEVENTEEN Blogger Network

*Sponsored post 

Holiday Makeup For Evening With SEVENTEEN

A bit earlier in the month I shared my Holiday Makeup For Day with SEVENTEEN post, I was extremely impressed with the products that I used. This post is no different, the makeup I used for evening was a real eye opener and really showed me that budget products can really perform well.

So for evenings I used the SEVENTEEN CC Cream £6.99 which as mentioned previously was a great base and it lasts.

I used the SEVENTEEN Define & Conquer Kit £5.99 which I have reviewed before & absolutely love. It is such an easy & quick way to create/define cheekbones..

To add warmth in my face I used the beautiful golden toned SEVENTEEN Instant Glow SKINWOW Tan (liquid formula) £5.99 which is warm toned highlighter and adds a beautiful sheen/glow to skin, perfect for Summer evenings. I used it a couple of ways, all over mixed with the CC Cream and just on my cheek bones.

Now this is where I get seriously impressed.... On my eyes I used the SEVENTEEN Falsifeye HD Mascara £6.99 which once again I have reviewed before on BeautySwot. At just £6.99 it is an absolute bargain for stand out, long lashes. I really like this mascara, and later on you will see just how flutter worthy my lashes are using this mascara.

Now for my absolute favourite of this bundle of beauty products.... SEVENTEEN Wet Look Lacquer Eyeliner £3.99. I am always concerned about using liquid liners that are slightly brush like as I tend to make a right mess of my eye makeup using them, I much prefer a pen BUT although this had a scary tiny brush it was just perfect. It was stiff enough to draw a perfect and rich black line AND it didn't transfer to my upper lid or budge once dried all evening. BEST product in my view.

And finally my lips were adorned with SEVENTEEN Berry Crush Lip Stain £4.99 this colouring pen type product puts colour on your lips & it stays there for the evening. I am not sure what shade I was using but it was a really pretty & flattering pink shade.

Here are some pics using the products

Stay tuned for your chance to win some fabulous SEVENTEEN makeup products... coming soon!!

*Sponsored post 

GlossyBox January 2015 - Inside Mine - Fresh Start Must Haves

As with all things January and a New Year the theme of this month's GlossyBox is of a fresh start. I think there is a nice mix of skincare and makeup and have no doubt I will be using all of the products included.

As ever the box is packaged beautifully making it a real pleasure to receive and open but of course it is the products that we are really interested in...

So What's Inside?

All five items are full size 

Kueshi Natural & Pleasant Cosmetics Revitalizing Face Toner 200ml €10.70 

This has come at just the right time as I am almost out of toner which I use twice a day every day. I haven't had a chance to use it yet and this is a new brand for me but it smells nice and fruity! The toner contains calendula, chamomile and aloe vera so I will keep you posted on how this goes.

Nicka K New YorK Colorluxe Powder Blush €8.95 

Loose powder without the mess? This is a great on the go product where the blush is dispensed from the powder puff applicator. The blush has no shimmer in it so gives a creamy appearance to the skin..it is a little bright ( deep pink) so light application will be plenty enough for a brightening pop of colour. I really like it.

MeMeMe Eye Line Pencil in Clay £4

I do love a good dark brown eyeliner and this one is creamy and soft to apply with good colour. I will let you know how I find it lasts but first impressions are good.

Naked Lips Organic Lip Balm Superfruits €5 

This fruit scented 100% natural lip balm smells lovely and feels really nourishing on the lips. It is packed with oils and leaves lips feeling soft and conditioned. Great for the cold spell we are currently experiencing.

Jelly Pong Pong All Over Glow £10

A good highlighting product is a daily staple for me so this gel/liquid highlighter was a welcome addition in the box. It is not too pale or too light for me so it provides a beautiful and radiant glow to my skin.

Final thoughts 

The box isn't overly exciting on first glance (I didn't squeal or anything upon opening) but take a closer look - the products are a decent mix of makeup and skincare and a good introduction to some new brands. The products are all useful and I think fulfill the theme of a Fresh Start.

*PR Sample

My Top Five Products Of 2014

As the year is almost at an end I thought now would be a good time to take the opportunity to share my favourite products of this year.

BeautySwot.com is more than just a beauty review site, inside these pages I share not only my favourite skincare and beauty items and afternoon tea events but also fabulous food and drink finds (usually of a healthy nature but also to satisfy that ever present sweet craving) and of course absolutely anything else that grabs my interest and consequently my awards reflect this.

So without further ado here are my top 5 favourite products of 2014 - 

5. ScentChips from Holland and Barrett 

These are a recent revelation to me but already I am hooked on these deliciously scented wax melts. They are colourful, come in a leaf shape and print and quite simply smell utterly amazing. Used in conjunction with a burner the wax melts to emit the most wonderful aromas that literally fill the entire house. They last for absolutely ages too.

They come in ready made scent packs or you can mix and match your melts to create many scent variations..

Home Fragrance at its best.

4. Linwoods Milled Flaxseed Sunflower Pumpkin Sesame seeds and Goji Berries

Another product from Holland and Barrett, LINWOODS do a wide range of milled seeds and nuts combinations. I loved this particular one so much I have gone on to buy it multiple times, I still want to try some others in the range which I plan to do soon. I love the fact that this is healthy, nutritional and being milled easier to digest. I have this on my porridge every day and if I have run out of porridge it is just as tasty on plain yoghurt with fresh blueberries as an alternative breakfast.

You can read my original review here

3. Rimmel London BB Cream Matte Light 

I am all about the base. I truly believe that if you get that right the rest just follows naturally. In the past I have tended towards high end bases because you are usually given a wider choice of shades for more of a perfect colour match and I have just found them better suited to my skin... I still do get excited, very excited when a new foundation/BB Cream/CC Cream is released and it is probably the one beauty product that will never fail to ignite my passion in beauty. When this little sample was included in a GlossyBox I didn't think much about it... until I tried it and was blown away. A perfect base product for an absolute bargain budget price of just £6.99.

It covers everything and although it says Matte I don't find it that matte at all, just that it leaves me great looking skin that lasts all day. The only downside is that it comes in just two shades.

You can read my original review here

2. Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Nude Kate

I am always drawn to nude shades of lipstick and gloss and forever on the look out for a my lips but better perfect shade and this year I found it in Nude Kate - the nude shade from Charlotte Tilbury's K.I.S.S.I.N.G range of lipsticks.

Luxurious packaging, a beautifully creamy and moisturising formula makes this one of my all time favourite lipsticks.

For my mini review and swatches click here

1. Dior Diorskin Star Foundation 

As I mentioned above I am all about the base so naturally my number one product would be a base product. This year the accolade without a doubt goes to Dior with its spectacular Dior Star Studio MakeUp.

I only tried a sachet sample of the foundation but I managed to use it on five separate occasions and fell in love with the instantaneously fabulous results. Skin looks smooth, flawless and radiant.

When I finish one of my current foundations I will be purchasing this foundation without a doubt.

To see my full review and to see me wearing it, click here

A true winner I am sure you will agree.

What products did you love this year?

October 2014 Glossybox - Andy Warhol Inspired Pop Art Collector's Edition Box

Ooh I absolutely love the print on this month's GlossyBox! The Andy Warhol Pop Art design is so apt for a beauty blogger and is bright and cheery for this dreary October ... I will have no problems recycling this after I have used the contents.

As ever though, the outer is very nice but do the contents live up to expectation...

What's inside the October Glossybox

Inside my box features no less than 4  full size products, a fairly generous perfume sample and a bonus sample product.

From Left to Right -

Etre Belle Cosmetics Liplift Peel € 12.95 (Full Size)

They say - Get replenished and defined lips in an instant with this moisturising lip exfoliator. The gentle formula removes dead cells, refining the skin's surface for perfectly soft lips.

Out of all the products this is probably the one I am least enthused about getting use from as my lips are in pretty good condition, but you never know with the changing weather this could come in useful.

Yves Rocher France Quelques Notes D'Amour 5ml sample (Full Size £33 for 30ml)

They say - This scent encapsulates the feeling of falling in love through fusing notes of Damascus Rose , Guaiac Wood and Patchouli.

I like perfume samples and this is handy to pop into my weekend bag. This scent is lovely too, a bit like a delicious Turkish Delight.

So Susan Cosmetics Flutter Mascara £14.95 (Full Size)

They say - An intense carbon-black mascara formulated with hyaluronic spheres to help you achieve the darkest, curviest lashes possible.

I am always up for trying new mascaras and this sounds good, watch this space for my review!

Nuxe Creme Fraiche de Beaute Mask £19.50 (Full Size)

They say - A 24hr moisturising mask which hydrates and soothes the skin, instantly reducing discomfort or redness. Skin is left looking radiant and relaxed.

I am a big fan of Nuxe products so I am looking forward to trying out this mask which sounds ideal for the Winter months.

Ciate London Paint Pot £9 (Full Size)

I received Talent Scout a purple creme shade that be dressed up or down.

Bonus product - Rimmel London BB Cream Matte (sample size)

They say - This mulitasking 9 in 1 skin perfecting makeup cream with a natural formula contains kaolin, witch hazel and salicyclic acid for a flawless matte look.

I haven't tried this BB Cream so I will be interested to see how I get on with it, watch this space for the review..fingers crossed it is shade perfect!!

Final thoughts

This month's box represents outstanding value and with a great mix of products enclosed.

Thumbs up.

*PR Sample

Contour - How To Create Killer Cheekbones

I don't have stand out cheekbones but with a bit of makeup magic and clever contouring I can create and fake those to die for cheekbones that I so desire.

How to create and cheat your way to Killer Cheekbones in 3 easy steps - 

Contour
Blush
Highlight

Step 1 - Use a matte contour blush in a shade one or two darker than your natural colour - Suck in your cheeks and follow the hollow under the bone to apply the blush - I love Smashbox Blush Silhouette in Rush.

Step 2 - Apply your blusher as normal, I take mine up to the hairline - One of my all time faves is NewCID Cosmetics i-glow in Coral Crush.

Step 3 - Apply a highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones for added definition and contrast - I absolutely love the Laura Mercier Shimmer Bloc that comes with 4 highlighting shades.

The picture above is quite dramatic but you can still recreate killer cheekbones in a more subtle way - as seen in this picture where I am wearing a red lipstick

The blusher I used for this look was a matte neutral which is the the perfect shade for wearing with red lipstick but also works equally with a barely there nude/warm beauty look.

Cargo Blusher in shade Tonga

March GlossyBox 2014 - What's Inside Mine

It's that time again, the March Glossybox has been delivered, so what was inside mine...

This month's theme - 'Beauty Blossom' is a season change inspired box - marking the transition from Winter to Spring.

I have to say this month I was underwhelmed upon opening the ribbon and taking a quick peek inside, however a day later I had already used two of the products!

Mitchell and Peach Body Cream in English Growers 40ml (Full size 180ml £36)

Take a walk in the English countryside with this body cream that contains English honey, organic cocoa, vitamin B and shea butter.

My thoughts

The smell of this body cream is a bit too herby/floral/lavender for me so I will be passing this on. It  has a lovely texture and is non sticky. I am also impressed that this is paraben free and with no synthetic colours.

Bellapierre Cosmetics Shimmer Powders in Sensation 2.3g £12.99 (Full Size)

My thoughts 

This is a highly intense shimmering eye shadow in white/silver, it would make a fab highlighter actually and Bellapierre say that the powder can be mixed to other makeup products to make custom makeup.

Sleek MakeUP Pout Polish SPF15 in Bare Minimum £4.49 (Full Size)

Tinted Balm SPF15 with almond oil, shea butter and vitamin E.

My thoughts 

Predictably being the nude makeup fiend that I am this Pout Polish has already made its way into my handbag and been used. Bare Minimum is a gorgeous barely there nude shade that makes lips look very pretty and glossy without any sticky weight. Scent wise it smells like vanilla.

Helenere Maitrise du Temps 10ml £38.50 (Full Size)

An intensive serum that moisturises deeply while preventing skin ageing and adds skin elasricity to give a brighter complexion.

My thoughts 

This Swiss brand is new to me but I am looking forward to trying out this serum and will keep you posted on my thoughts after use.

Dove Hair Therapy Intensive Repair 60 Second Treatment Shot 5ml £1.49 (Full Size)

A 60 second pick-me-up for hair promising soft, strong hair with a keratin boost.

My thoughts

I have already used this 60 second treatment shot, I am a big fan of Dove hair care products and even more so a fan of fast working products! This smells wonderful and leaves hair looking fabulous.

Final thoughts

Not terribly exciting on first glance but everything will get used one way or another! Value wise my box was worth an incredible £65! and contained 4 full size products.

*PR Sample

February 2014 GlossyBox - The Valentine's Love Edition

The February GlossyBox 2014 has a rather fabulous Valentine's Day inspired kisses design which is great fun and one to keep.

The theme of the box I am not entirely sure about, it may be Love it may be indulgent treats. It wasn't completely clear but there were a few things to enjoy in my box as it happens. I think that these could have been used for a Valentine's Day look but unfortunately mine arrived the day after!

So what was inside my February GlossyBox

The 5 items

Nougat London Sparkling Body Shimmer in Cherry Blossom 100ml (full size 250ml £14)

This body lotion smells amazing, it contains mallow extract, vitamin E and wheatgerm enriched oil and comes with a hint of shimmer. I am looking forward to using this on my decolletage and legs!

Nougat London is a new brand for me to discover so I was pleased to see this in the box.

Maybelline New York Master Kajal Kohl Liner in Pitch Black £5.99

This is a cream stick eye liner and it applies like a dream with a nice and rich, intense black shade. I cannot wait to try this on my eyes. Can be used to line eyes and create bolder looks too.

Ciate London Paint Pot in shade Raspberry Collins £9 for 13.5ml

I am a fan of the Ciate formula but am not overly keen on hot pink shades which Rasberry Collins is so will be passing this on to my sister (lucky her!)

Eldora Eyelashes £3.90

I don't wear false lashes so will be passing these on.

Toni & Guy Hair Meets Wardrobe Stick It Up Gum £7.20 90ml

This hair product from top brand Toni & Guy claims to hold and control for a gravity style with a high shine finish. Glossybox says this product is good for flyaways. I may just give it a go for that as I rarely wear my hair up in a ponytail or require extra volume ;-)

A bonus chocolate treat from Lindt was included, the Lindor Treat Bar was devoured almost immediately upon opening the Glossybox! A gorgeously smooth chocolate with a lovely soft filling. Delicious and worth 79p.

Final thoughts

Value wise this was a brilliant box with 4 out of 5 of my items full size.  On a personal level however in terms of items I would use there are probably 2 that I am looking forward to using, 2 that I will be passing on to others and one I am a little undecided on its suitability for me.

*PR Sample