Testing Luxury Skincare ¦ Aurelia

Testing Luxury Skincare ¦ Aurelia

Comment   

After so many years of neglecting my skin, I have decided to branch out and explore the wonderful world of skincare. I'm not saying I never used any skin products before, but all of them were drugstore brands. That isn't necessarily wrong, but I seemed to follow the crowd and buy products that weren't beneficial to my skin type. Over the years, I have developed really dry skin; probably due to my lack of consistency when it comes to a skin care regime. However, I've come to terms with my skin type - very dry on the lower cheeks, normal-oily in the T Zone as well as suffering redness and dark eye circles. I am yet to find a perfect eye cream to soothe the discolouration under my eyes but I think I've finally found the products that are progressively improving my skin...

Aurelia Skincare is a British company that thrive to manufacture probiotic products for women to feel better, and confident, naturally. Their probiotic technology is combined with bioorganic botanical formulations to create a luxurious, and natural, feel on the skin. Aurelia conjures incredibly scented formulations that help to reduce levels of skin inflammation to create a perfect balance within the skin. With that being said, I was so excited to test out samples from their range, as my skin becomes red easily. I was happy to put their claims to the test..here goes... 

Oh and the products are all animal-cruelty free! BONUS!!

Arrival

First and foremost, the lovely women I spoke to via their email service was incredibly helpful. She advised products that would help with my dry and dull skin, offering me knowledge into what I should use to improve my skin's impurities. On arrival, my luxurious packaged samples were placed in a classy black box (which I'm now using for storage - practical!!). The products were encased in several layers of tissue paper and pretty brand-imprinted ribbons; I love when brands make that extra effort the please their customers. It simply shows pride and care in their brand. Also, the delivery took only 2 days to arrive - so if you are struggling to grasp something to save your skin, I would totally recommend popping your desired product for Aurelia into your basket.

Miracle Cleanser - The chamomile, eucalyptus, rosemary and bergamot infused cleanser sinks, and soothes, into my dry skin. Over the two weeks of using this to remove makeup and generally cleanse my face in the day and night, I have honestly (HAND ON HEART) felt a gigantic improvement. Not only does it remove dirt and bacteria that builds up in your skin throughout the day, it moisturizes and hydrates my face, making it feel soft and replenished. The scent is light with its floral feminine undertones, making it a pleasure to apply to my face morning and night.

Refine and Polish Miracle Balm - A product responsible for benefiting my dull, red skin. The ingredients combined in this balm formula aid balance and protection of the skin, whilst brightening my overall complexion. The same scent is used from the product mentioned above, making me more keen to pick this up and use it at the end of the day, rather than being lazy like I usually am! Aurelia advise their balm buyers to gently massage the formula into their skin - this helps to boost circulation and reveal a brighter and clearer appearance. I've also used this product as a mask, as well as exfoliant, once a week. This helps to target dead/dry cells that may surface on the skin. Unlike my past exfoliants, this balm doesn't force you to tug on the skin - the formula glides on and off whilst removing dirt.

Accompanying my cleanser and balm, was this adorably wrapped muslin cloth. You are able to buy a set of 7 bamboo muslin cloths here - one for each day of the week! The smooth, organic material is soft, also aiding no tugging at the skin which can cause irritation. They are also antibacterial so will be no harm to the skin - I gently remove the cleanser with this muslin cloth in small circular motions over my face. The bacteria and other nasties will be lifted from the skin onto the material - this can they be easily washed to become fresh again.

Revitalise & Glow Serum - One of the top products the kind lady at Aurelia recommended was this serum. I didn't know much about serums until I read some articles on them after receiving and the description that accompanies the product. 'A lightweight and easily absorbed potent age prevention fluid.Concentrated BioOrganic 100% pure botanicals include Baobab which is rich in precious Omega 3, 6 & 9 to revitalise the skin, soothing and firming Kigelia Africana and Hibiscus to fight oxidative stress, combined with a powerful dose of vitamin E.  this addictive serum works to hydrate and soothe dull and dehydrated skin promoting a luminous, dewy and radiant glow whilst helping to prevent skin ageing.' After two weeks of regular use, my skin has started to become slightly more radiant than usual, making me excited to use this further to ensure dull skin is no longer a problem for me!!!

Cell Repair Night Oil - Never owning a luxury night oil is something that has definitely negatively impacted me regarding my current skin situation. This stuff has never made my skin feel better - my favourite product of all received. I've applied this to my face most nights (I accidentally forgot 2 oops!) and when I wake up, my skin feels awakened and hydrated. This was a huge deal for me - I usually wake up and want to scream at my dull, dry skin when I look in the mirror. However, consistent use of night oil has helped revitalise my skin into the best state it ever has been. So so happy with the outcome of this product!

Aromatic Repair and Brighten Hand Cream - Testing a luxury hand cream had never really came to mind - I always stuck with a mini moisturizer as a handbag essential and didn't think much of it. I always like to keep a hand cream/sanitizer in my bag in case my hands feel dry (EVERYDAY!!) or I've been touching lots of bacteria prone surfaces. By the way, I'm not one of those crazy clean freaks, I've just recently seen so many videos on bacteria gathering in areas you never even thought were an issue and it kind of freaked me out... Anyway, my hands are easily super clammy or excessively dry so I'm hoping this can help me to achieve the perfect balance. The formula is creamy and works its way into the skin to achieve a moisturized finish. Aurelia states that this helps to nail strength - another exciting factor as my nails are super brittle. Will let you all know how I get on with this!

You can purchase Aurelia Skincare online or stockists such as Space NK. If you would like to see a skin care routine using my favourite products from Aurelia's range, leave a comment below and I will be sure to make a Youtube Video when I start up my channel. SUBSCRIBE HERE to be the first to see when I start it up in the next month. 

What's your favourite skincare brand?

Lots of love

------------------------------------------------------------

This post is in collaboration with Aurelia; however, all opinions are honest and my own.

...and Relax

...and Relax

Comment   

Finally, I have endured the majority of my exams and I cannot be more relieved. For those still in secondary school/sixth form, it is exam season and the past few weeks have been incredibly stressful. Currently, I'm taking my AS levels (the first year of sixth form) and I've had to work my butt off to try and maintain consistent grades throughout the year. You've probably heard many people say it before but the gap is H U G E between GCSE and A Levels - the courses get harder, the work load is more intense and the amount of content increases by 300% in some of my subjects. It has been a tough, stressful and tiring year which has gone very quickly and I'm praying that the work I've put in has paid off. Fortunately, we've all earnt this week off school and I can't wait to relieve some stress before returning on the 7th of June to complete my final biology exam. 

Now that I've got some time to myself, away from revision, I will definitely spend some nights pampering myself. What's more to love that coming home from an exam, work or simply a bad day and treating yourself to a 'me' night? If you aren't quite sure what 'me-time' is - make sure to carry on reading because you're seriously missing out. Here is my relaxion and ultimate night routine to keep you and your body feeling happier than ever...

Refresh Yourself

When you've had a busy day, or a study-filled evening, nothing is better than refreshing yourself with a nice warm bath or show. Whichever your preference, giving yourself a wash always helps to cleanse your mindset, as well as your body. Every once in a while, I treat myself to a nice warm bath. I love using bath bombs from BOMB cosmetics (the ones photographed above) and LUSH cosmetics (The Enchanter and Sex Bomb are my faves)! Also, I love to look at the ingredients in them to ensure there are products that contain oils to moisturize my dry legs. When shopping for bath ingredients, always look at what the product will do for your skin - unless you simply just want to relax and look for one with your favourite scent.

Washing my hair is also a must whenever I have a pamper evening. Currently, I'm using the Richard Ward Keratin Restore collection, which you can read more about here, that has thankfully recooperated my damaged locks. I used to neglect my hair so much but seeing the difference from using hair masks, oils and better shampoo/conditioner I'm constantly looking after it! After washing my hair, I wrap it onto the top of my head with a hair towel - these things are sooo useful and help to dry my hair quicker, allowing you to avoid exposing it to heat.

Cleanse Yourself

An essential part of my ultimate night routine is skincare. I cannot get into bed without removing my makeup, cleansing my face, moistuzing and apply a lip balm. My favourite, and highly affordable, makeup removers are the face and eye ones from Garnier. I apply a small amount of product onto a cotton pad and wipe my face in gentle, small circles - this avoids spreading the makeup around your whole face. Also, these products do not sting your eyes, which I've found a lot of remover products do. Next, I cleanse with the Skinology lotion to remove any excess makeup, get into my pores and be rid of dirt that may be trapped in my skin. Finally, I moisturize with the Garnier Moisture Match for dry skin and the Body Shop Hemp lip conditioner. Sometimes, I like to grab my Body Shop Japanese Camellia Cream, which I hasten to add smells and feels incredible, and give my legs a little bit of TLC. My favourite body lotion of all time - next time you are in Body Shop, please give that a whiff. You will not regret it.

Treat Yourself

Possibly my favourite part of this routine is the treatment session. When I'm feel sad after a bad day, I like to pamper myself with some face masks and give myself a manicure. Usually, painting my nails is one utter, monotonous chore; however, I absolutely love to paint my nails when I'm in a bad mood?! At the minute, I've been loving Nude Frosting (such a cute name!) from Model's Own. Although the finish is supposed to be matte, a slight glossy finish is present but I don't mind, the colour is so pretty. Nude nail polishes look incredibly feminine and go with every outfit! Face masks are also a must-have (especially if you've tagged a friend along to join you). Seaweed masks are my favourite; they are great for those with dry skin/dry patches, help to minimize pores and leave your skin feeling silky smooth. 

Comfort Yourself

The final part of the routine is complete and utter relaxion. Do your favourite thing and try to not worry about anything. Wear something comfortable so you don't feel restricted - I love wearing baggy tees and shorts to bed, or a dressing gown and fluffy socks in the Winter. Personally, I love to just sit on my laptop, watch Youtube videos and write some blog posts. If I'm really into a book, then I tend to read that or if their is no new Youtube videos in my subscriptions, then I watch my favourite Disney film, Family Guy or something romantic on Netflix. Oh, and don't forget your comfort food to accompany your activities (mine would totally be jaffa cakes and a strawberry split ice lolly) and a hot drink! Whatever you choose you do, this is entirely up to you! Just relax...

Allowing yourself time between revision, school and sleeping is super important - you need to give your brain time to relax and shut down for a few hours, especially prior to sleeping. I've had countless sleepless nights by making the mistake of cram revising until 11/12 o'clock and it is NOT good for you. I wish you the best of luck for those who are still in exam mode and have more left. Well done to those who may have finished already - I hope you all get the grades you deserve :)

Are you currently studying at school? What subjects do you take?

Lots of love

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

This post is not in collaboration with any of the brands/products mentioned.

Everyday Makeup Routine

Everyday Makeup Routine

Comment   

One of the most iconic beauty blogger/vlogger posts is the EVERYDAY MAKEUP ROUTINE. Although I've been blogging for almost 3 years now, I still haven't managed to upload my daily go-to makeup look. My makeup routine varies on a fairly regular basis - it changes from week to month. However, throughout March/April, this is the look I've been attached to and repetitively wearing whenever I'm leaving the house to do something. 

Generally, makeup makes me feel more comfortable and confident as a person so I completely acknowledge that this may be too much makeup for some to wear daily. In other cases, it may not be as much as others. If you wish to follow my makeup routine but change some products or tone things down depending on your personal preferences. 

Here it is...the long awaited everyday makeup routine..

EYES

On most occasions, I tend to begin my routine with my eye makeup; this is mainly because I cannot stand 'fallout' and I don't feel so much pressure with eyeliner application. Sometimes, I like to use tape when applying eyeshadow and liner to create a clean, sharp cut. 

Recently, I've been loving the Too faced Chocolate Bar palette - my look involves the shades 'Milk Chocolate' and 'Semi-Sweet'. I apply both brown shades into the crease and blend, blend, blend! This create a soft, contoured eye look, which helps bolden and intensify my small eyes. The eyeliner I'm currently using is the L'Oreal Superstar Super Liner - the strong nibbed applicator ensures precision is at its best whilst also holding an incredible black pigment. Also, I use a Model's Own black liner in my waterline for extra definition. Finally, the mascara I've been loving this month is Rimmel's Super Curler 24HR. I don't think I've ever found a drugstore mascara that doesn't smear under my eyes after several hours after application until I met this. So affordable too!

FACE

Following on my eye makeup comes my complexion. For my base, I've been reaching for L'Oreal's Infaillible 16HR wear foundation. This is super concealing, helps to hide and even out my blotchy red skin and lasts all day long without sticking to dry patches. Then is my tricky task of covering up my horrific under eye circles - L'Oreal's Lumi Magique works wonders for my under eye darkness. It manages to conceal, and primarily highlight, any dull areas on the face. 

Now my favourite part - contour, blush and highlight. To contour or bronze my face up, whichever I'm feeling, I always carry my trusty Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess which I've been raving about forever! The warm-toned powder and formula works well on my skin; complimenting my cool skin and making blending a dream. Blush can potentially bring out my natural red complexion so I sometimes avoid wearing it. However, I have found that MAC's Melba is a super natural, toned-down peach which works well for me. Finally, I've been using MAC Soft and Gentle MSF or The Balm's Mary Lou Manizer to add that beautiful glow to the cheekbones and eyebrow bone.

LIPS 

Keeping it natural for that everyday appropriate look, I have a collection of lipsticks I usually carry in my makeup bag. In the images above, I've used MAC Mehr on my lips - a soft, mauve pink. Also, I recommend Charlotte Tilbury Bond Girl or Chanel Satisfaction for those highend lovers. Alternatively, highstreet lovers can opt for Essence's Natural Beauty lipstick or Soap and Glory Glossy Crayon's in Nudist.

Do you use the same products on a daily basis? What is your go-to lipstick?

Lots of love

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

This post is not in collaboration with any brands listed above. 

Pamper Evening Routine

Pamper Evening Routine

Comment   

What's more to love when you're feeling down or have been busy than a nice girly pamper evening, either alone or with one of your girl mates.

To begin with, I usually gear myself up in clothes that I can just lounge about and feel comfortable in. This usually acquires a baggy jumper/loose top and cute pajama bottoms - maybe even a snuggly dressing gown now the nights are drawing in and becoming colder. I then remove all my makeup, using multiple Simple Skincare products (if you want to see an in-depth skincare routine then leave a lil comment below!).

My next stop would be to run a nice hot bath and fill it will masses of bubbles and colourful products, such as Lush bath bombs. My favourite bath product at Christmas time is Candy Mountain - the dusty pink colour it creates in your bath is beautiful, as well as tons of bubbles! I also tend to light a few candles around the bath; I love the smell of vanilla/cake baking, so my scent preferences tend to steer towards the sweeter end of the scale, rather than the spicy, stereotypical Christmas ones.

After getting out of the bath, most likely with wrinkly fingers and toes, I rub body moisturizer all over my legs and arms - I am absolutely loooooving the Body Shop butters at the minute, especially this passion fruit scented one. Soap and Glory are a massive 'go-to bath/body products' for me as well. I really love their bath foams and hand moisturizers - the sweet scents are heavenly.

As my cosy little evening comes to an end, I will always put a movie on, get a hot chocolate and sometimes put on a face mask (if I want to go all out with the pampering). My fun face mask preferences are the cheap range of self-heating ones you can buy in Superdrug for £1. They are pretty good, considering the low price boundary, and really make a difference to my skin afterwards. I will then rinse it off after about 20-25 minutes, and have an early night -I really love my sleep!

I hope you liked listening to my special evening routine. If you want to see my morning routine in the future then please comment below. Also, this post is very important, as it is a collab with the lovely Chloe (from chloedoeseverything.blogspot.co.uk) - make sure to go and check her blog out, as she has posted her morning routine, in contrast to my evening one. You can also check out her instagram at @cde_b and don't forget to follow her on bloglovin; her posts are amazing! She is also hosting a giveaway that involves winning a gorgeous Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow palette so make sure you check all the details on that whilst you're there.

Lots of Love x