REN invisible pores detox mask

Another product that has a seat around the blogger's hype round table. Recently, I've purchased quite a few hyped up products which I was quick to say I'd "given in to". However, if something is raved about THAT much then maybe, it's worth your pennies?

From nose strips to target face scrubs and "pore reducing" moisturisers; I've tried a good few products but they never do the job as well as I'd hoped. Sure, they make the nose/t-zone area smooth but I don't feel in reduces the pore size substantially nor does it eliminate blackheads to a great extent. I've heard that many Asian beauty brands have selections of products that are well targeted to these problems but before giving those a try I decided to test out the REN Invisible Pores Detox Mask.

A clay based mask that claims to reduce the appearance of blackheads and pores as well as draw out impurities. It contains bio extracts of french clay, red tea and Tropical spirulina. It comes in a pump bottle which helps to keep things mess free! (I'm appreciating this, really). I've been layering this on excluding my forehead and making sure that I've generously packed it on in my target areas; nose and chin.

Personally, I think the longer you leave it on the better. When the mask is dry it will crumble when your fingers rub your face. I rub most of it off and then use some water to just ensure it's all gone whilst giving my face a quick splash or two. I usually leave my face to air dry as it makes my skin feel better refreshed and clean.

Instant changes I noticed were a more even complexion and a healthier colour and glow to my skin.  The surface of my skin felt even and was neither red nor irritated. My skin didn't feel tight and thankfully, the mask didn't dry out my skin. I've used this a few times and have already noticed a subtle shrinking in the pore sizes on my chin and nose. However, this mask has really battled it out  to eliminate blackheads. I'm impressed! And unlike when I use nose strips, my skin isn't going back to square one a week later. REN suggest that for oily skin types you use this 2-3 times a week and for normal skin types, 1-2. 

A product definitely worth my pennies and has now been knighted the "superhero mask". Tomorrow night, will be about time for another helping!

REN invisible pores detox mask £18

Have you tried this mask?

What REN skincare products do you recommend?

xo

unmasked: strawberry & chocolate

2012 is the year I became fixated on face masks. I'll mark that in the diary. It all started with the peel off No7 mask in the tube and well, the rest is history! I've been pick 'n' mixing between different sachet faces masks as the variety is nice and you can find them for different skincare purposes. Here are two I've tried over the last month.

 I Love...strawberry face mask

I've tried a home made strawberry mask before but it was too runny so naturally, things didn't end well; kinda had to balance it on your face. This mask, has the same yummy scent and benefits but it's a thick peel off mask. I managed two uses out of this packet. The first time I didn't notice any difference in my skin and was a little disappointed. However, the second time, I left it on for an extra 5 minutes and felt it did a much better job! Generally, it gave a more refreshing and glowing boost to my complexion. The longer you leave it on, the easier it is to peel off but I still found it a little more fiddly than the No7 peel off mask I've used countless times. 

Montagne Jeunesse Chocolate Masque (£1.00 Boots)

Being new to mud masks, this seemed like a good place to start. A rich and creamy texture that smooths easily over the skin and you can layer it up as you desire. It smells, like chocolate (obvs) but in more of a cocoa way and not as a sickly sweet treat. I left it on for about 15 minutes, and lul'd at myself in the mirror for 2. When your face starts to look scaly as if it's about to crack, it's a good time to take it off. I'd recommend just using your hands and some comfortably warm water to remove as using a cloth of sorts will leave you with extra scrubbing and washing. 

This is the kind of mask I'd recommend after a long day out, where the pollution and heat has dried out your skin and left it looking a tad grey. It really brought back a healthy glow, reduced any irritated red skin and left my skin feeling soft, moisturised and hydrated. Basically, it's froyo for your face. Enjoy. :)

I'm looking forward to trying other masks from both of these brands but I think I'd like to repurchase the chocolate one too.

What's one of your favourite face masks?

xo

#bbloggers chat: the aftermath episode 5

Another Sunday comes around and here are three lovely blogs worth some of your bedtime reading love! #bbloggers chat tonight was an interesting one all about samples, beauty boxes and PR. The idea of having a "sample swap" came about a few times. Perhaps we could have a hashtag for it? So you just tweet using the hashtag to inquire about a sample you'd like to find or to advertise samples you want to swap. Personally, I think it would work out especially because samples aren't usually heavy or weird shapes to post. What does everyone think?

Anyway, onto the lovely bloggers! :)

 jessicaleigh

beauty bee london

fashiony nails

Have a lovely Sunday evening everyone!  

xo

she's got a gun for a tongue

It's always awkward when you can see the camera remote. ;) I thought I'd break things up a bit with an outfit post. Quite the skincare rambler I am at the moment so you won't be surprised to hear that there's a lot more on its way. However, some new haircare posts are in the midst and others. I'm trying to find new ways of reviewing products because I ramble too much when I give myself an entire post to talk about one thing. Also, brownie points for anyone who can guess what series I shamefully watched out in 3 days (clue is in the title). 

blazer - bershka

black top - deby debo

jeans - select

bag - an old outlet store

bracelets - kukee & claires

ring - kukee

Hope you're all having a lovely week!

xo

skincare junkie stash #4

Today I'm finally getting around to talking about the cute little Etat Pur samples I received when I ordered from them months ago. My Etat Pur Micellar Cleansing Water is on its last legs but I'm determined to finish the Elemis melting gel cleanser I have first before purchasing another. This is me trying to be good, okay?

Now the first sample was an adorable little bottle of the normal micellar cleansing water. I find it's great for keeping in your make up bag with a few cotton wool balls when you're staying over night somewhere. 

Next, these two moisturisers are samples for complete opposite ends of the spectrum. The first is their Ultra-rich Nourishing balm. It's not as thick as any balm I've ever used so it spreads easily and evenly over the skin. However, it definitely holds an amazing amount of moisture and rich quality without being heavy. I used this at night and the next morning the softness and lack of dry patches could pretty much speak for themselves. I've been on the hunt for something intensive for the night that's affordable and this has shown to be a real contender. My only qualm is that when it went over my eyebrows or, God forbid, touched an eyelash, it would make them squeaky, rubbery and generally feel funny. It was almost as if they had become brittle and this kinda worried me but some warm water sorted it out. The only word of warning then, is if you need something for dry skin around your eyebrow area, maybe this isn't the best one to try.

Before applying make up I like a moisturiser that can provide enough moisture for my cheeks and nose whilst not making the rest of my face look shiny and oily. The Oil-free Quenching Fluid seemed like a good match. The term fluid did throw me a little though. It's actually a blue hybrid product crossing between a light cream and a gel. It's not exactly watery but when you're applying it definitely feels quite wet. I gave it 30seconds to dry before continuing. 

It's a great for under make up as it moisturises well and left a more natural and slightly dewy finish to my skin. I much preferred this than some of the other oil-free products I've tried which jump straight for the super matte look. Of course, I'm still in love with my Botanics Skin Calming Cream so I won't be purchasing this but that's not to say it's not a decent product. Once I've gotten through more of my night cream based samples I will be looking into purchasing the ultra-rich nourishing balm though. :)

Ultra-rich nourishing balm £9.20/40ml

Oil-free quenching fluid £7.80/40ml

Have you tried either of these?

What are your thoughts on Etat Pur?

xo

part of your world

As someone who is usually trailing back and fourth from Westfields it surprises me that I've only NOW had the chance to visit the big nail polish bottle that is, the Model's Own shop. It looks pretty cool and the layout makes it easy to browse all the different colours they have available and my do they have a lot! 

I was originally up for their "3 for £12" offer but when I saw that they had the nail pens I decided to get one of those and one polish instead. I'd been looking for the black nail pens for ages but my local Boots never had them in stock. I hadn't realised this but they actually have two application tools: a stick thin one for precise lines and another thin brush that would be perfect for tips!

As for the nail polish, I had to choose Indian Ocean from the new Beetlejuice collection. It's such a gorgeous duo-chrome that portrays the essence of mermaids! I've layered one coat on top of Orly's Ancient Jade and I really like how it looks. Unfortunately, I don't think the photos reflect how awesome it looks. 

models own indian ocean £5

Have you tried this shade?

What other colours do you think would look good underneath?

xo

kukee bracelets

I don't talk about jewellery very often but when I do I'm usually raving on about Kukee Jewellery. It is by far, my favourite little online shop to buy from. Such lovely pieces and at very good prices too. Here are two of the bracelets which I've had my eye on for awhile. They came in cute striped packaging which reminded me of a sweet shop! :)

Despite its spikes and edgy appearance, this bracelet is very light to wear and adjusts to all wrist sizes. Definitely my favourite as it adds something a bit different to an outfit. This would probably sit well with the spiked ring. I wonder if I could wear that without poking my eye out though?

This second bracelet is adorable; more of a cute and elegant piece. It's very simple and minimalist which is what drew me to it in the first place. This is one I think I'll find myself slipping on everyday because it'd sit well with any outfit. 

studded spike bracelet £3

wish upon a star bracelet £2

 xo

luxury super skin team

The first time I passed by a Lush store I thought it was a cheese shop and in much the same way my first glimpses of L'occitane led me to believe it was an adorable little tea shop. Although I couldn't have been more wrong about Lush, I'm tempted to give myself some credit with the second as, on occasion, they do offer you a spot of tea whilst browsing!

Last week, I finally purchased the L'occitane Almond Shower Oil which was given a glowing review by Vivianna does makeup. Since then I've seen it pop up on a crazy number of posts on my blog feeds; ah, you've gotta love blogger hype, eh?

Instead of just raving on about how I like it too I've decided to tell you about the new friend it made in my bathroom. Together, they are both now referred to as the "ultimate shaving experience". Of course, it's still a super team for the gaining smooth and soft skin.

Firstly, exfoliating the skin with the yummy body smoothing Breakfast Scrub from Soap & Glory. This has the perfect level of abrasiveness for my liking and smells amazing. It's a family favourite! On it's own this is a great product for reaching back to those layers of smooth, radiant skin. However, it's an extra luxury to follow this up with the L'Occitane almond shower oil. It pours like a normal oil but when mixed onto wet skin it forms a slightly creamy emulsion that's a perfect consistency for shaving. Using a body polisher or other scrubbing/spongey shower utensil you can just scrub it into the skin for a good ol' clean. 

The two scents marry so well together. It's just unfortunate that the almond shower oil scent doesn't last longer than when you've washed it off. Regardless, it's a lovely product to treat yourself with every now and again and it's definitely shed a positive light on my first L'Occitane experience. 

l'occitane almond shower oil £16.50

the breakfast scrub £9.50 

What's your favourite L'Occitane product?

What products would you choose for a super team?

xo

evening skincare routine

Firstly, I just want to apologise for leaving an abnormally long gap between posting this routine and my morning skincare one. I'm not sure why this has happened but you know how it is, some blog posts are just so impatient and want to go first. ;)

In the evenings I tend to have a bit more time and naturally, after your face has met up with a day's worth of "life", you're going to need to put a bit more time and effort into caring for the skin. I hadn't quite realised just how many products I use in the evening until I collected them all up for their compulsory photo shoot. Do you find yourself reaching for a ton more products in the evening too?

-step one-

I wash my hands with some good ol' decent soap; an obvious one. Then, using a cotton ball or two I remove my eye makeup with Garnier's 2 in 1 make up dissolver. This is a really gentle product I've repurchased. I find the oil base helps mascara and the like to just slip off. Next, using a couple more cotton pads, I remove my face makeup and lipstick with Etat Pur's Micellar Purifying Cleansing water. A really cooling and soothing product that doesn't dry out the skin. {review}

-step two-

Double cleansing. This is a new (by a month) addition to the routine and I feel like it's been helping to keep my skin in check. You'd be surprised how much cotton pads miss when you're removing your makeup; I know I was. Using Saaf Skincare's pure face cleanser {review}, I get the balm on my fingertips and rub into the skin. Then, using one of their organic cloths, I run it under warm water before using it to wipe off the cleanser. Usually, I just do this quickly as I like to properly wash my face with Neutrogena's Multi-Defence gentle purifying wash afterwards. However, if I'm planning on using a face mask or deep exfoliator then, I'll take a bit more time and care over this second double cleansing stage. The only reason for this is that although I really want my skin to feel clean, I don't want to bombard it with copious amounts of products.

-step three-

At this point, I may use one of these lovely misc products; a face mask, or scrub depending one what my skin feels like it needs. The magic of step three usually goes into play around twice a week. {No7 mask review} {No7 exfoliator} {S&G scrub} {Good Things mask}

-step four-

Next, I apply No7's Overnight revitalising eye balm. This is supposed to help with puffiness and dark circles; both of which I have. Then I pat on some of Saaf's eraser body oil to my cheeks as this is where the main hyper pigmentation and scarring war zone is situated. 

-step five-

Moisturising the face with a night cream. Currently, I'm using this generous sample of Elizabeth Arden 's Ceramide Overnight regeneration cream. It's so thick and indulgent, great for putting some real moisture back into the skin. If I'm having a particularly stubborn "dry-patch" evening then I'll also apply some of Saaf's ultimate moisture serum. 

There we have it, a mini essay on my evening skincare routine. I'm happy with it at the moment but I'm going to need a replacement night cream soon so please leave any suggestions in a comment. It'll be much appreciated! :)

What products are a part of your evening routine?

Do you also use any of these?

xo

#bbloggers chat: the aftermath episode 5

Another week, another lovely Sunday evening feature! #bbloggers chat this week was an interesting one about how to gain readers. Lots of ideas floating around regarding content and social media skillage. If you missed it, go have a scroll through the chat. I decided to make a habit of tweeting blog posts I've read that I loved/ found interesting. I'm also happy to read any blog posts you like or have written too if you tweet me @prettynotinc. (Especially if it's about skincare!). Now, here are three lovely blogs to feast your eyes on!

sstylexoxo

all about the girl blog

sisters dont share

Happy Sunday everyone!

xo

a new love: Saaf Skincare

 

Once I've finished a product, I've always been one to happily jump onto something new, perhaps within a different brand. Over the last two months, I've been trying out a couple products from Saaf Skincare and what with them being featured in favourites posts so soon, I can safely say that this is a brand I'm going to settle with for a long time. 

Saaf is a natural skincare brand with products made from only pure and organic ingredients. They have products to suit all skin types ranging from daily skincare needs to body care and a handful that are designed to target specific skin concerns. What I love is that you can pretty much count over both hands the number of ingredients in each product. This page of their website is my favourite as it lists all the key ingredients they use with their benefits. It's an interesting read.

pure face cleanser (£25.95)

A solid cleanser suitable for all skin types that works to remove even waterproof make up as well as putting moisture back into the skin. I use this as the second step in my double cleansing routine and it really works to remove any remaining evidence of make up whilst polishing off the skin to a clean and slightly glowing complexion. With clean hands, I rub my finger tips into this solid balm and then smooth all over the face. Then, using one of their organic cloths, I run it under warm water and then in light circular motions, use it to remove the cleanser which takes the day's dirt along with it. 

I've tried using a Liz Earle muslin cloth with this but I don't think it gives the same effect. The texture of the organic cloths work nicer to polish the skin in my opinion and I feel they work better in cleansing. I will definitely be purchasing a pack of these. Although the jar isn't the lightest, I still think it would be good for travelling as it's a solid cleanser and with water at hand, there will be no foamy faffing around over a sink. ;)

ultimate moisture face serum (£29.99)

A rich and nourishing serum that's perfect for dry or ageing skin. It's surprisingly very light and doesn't leave behind any oily residue or shine to the skin. My skin has been changing in the last 4/5 months and I've been seeing an abundance of annoying dry patches appearing. I use this serum only on those areas and my skin literally sucks it up like a plant. I tend to use this at night but it's good for the mornings too and doesn't affect the application of make up on top. I've been using the sample size for over a month now and it's still going strong so I do believe that a full size bottle will last ages!

eraser body oil (£35.99)

As the name suggests, this is perfect for all over body use to reduce stretch marks and protect against sun tan. However, it's also great for fading scars and reducing hyper pigmentation, that can be on the face too. Now, at first I thought well, I have Bio Oil so what's the big deal? But truth be told, I have been using Bio Oil for years and it doesn't make much of a difference for me. Granted,  my acne was still out in full force but even in the early months of this year the Bio Oil just wasn't making a difference. I started using this on my cheeks before bed and after 3 weeks I started to notice a difference. The redness has definitely reduced and the scarring on the right side of my face is fading nicely. Hopefully, the left side will start to clear up soon too. Again, I've been using a sample size of this product (9ml) and after 2 months I'm still not even approaching the half way mark.

Apologise for the very long post today. I just had so much to say but I guess that reflects just how much I'm into this brand! Their complexion boosting serum and hydrating face and lip balm are the products I've been eyeing up recently. Hopefully, I'll have a story for you all on those in the coming months.

Have you tried any Saaf Skincare products?

Do any of these products interest you?

xo

Disclaimer: the face serum and eraser oil were generous samples given at a blogger event. I was lucky enough to win the face cleanser from a Saaf twitter giveaway. This in no way effects my views on these products - 100% honesty all around!

Don't forget to check out my blog sale! :)

the sun won't shine if you're not looking

dress - funk rock clothing

sleeves - primark top

lace cardigan - 59 seconds

It's been a while since I did an outfit post. First there were exams and then, truth be told, I was being lazy. The weather has chilled ever so slightly so I'm out of the maxi dresses and bright colours but hopefully not for long. Speaking of maxi dresses, if you're a shortie (like moi) how do you find any that suit your height? I rarely ever find any and I'm not willing to compromise with some sky high heels (accident waiting to happen!). Any shop suggestions are much appreciated! 

Hope you're all enjoying your week! 

xo

studded shoes for breakfast

VECTRA4 

I've liked these for a while but I was in a good mood on Thursday and had a moment of impulse buying. Originally, I'd wanted a pair of flatforms but my feet insist on being a size 4.5 (which doesn't really exist) so I had to pass on the height boosters. Black's a safe colour but also the most practical. Secretly though, I have a soft spot for the yellow pair.

xo

#bbloggers chat: the aftermath episode 4

The #bbloggers aftermath feature has had a long hiatus. Perhaps, too long but it's back with three beautiful blogs with writers to match. Would we really have it any other way? ;)

.one.

{beauty becca}

.two.

{love louise}

.three.

{pretty glitter hearts}

Enjoy your Sunday evenings peeps! And if you live in the UK, have a great long weekend!

xo

monthly empties: may

01. dove shower gel

This is the creamiest shower gel ever! Smells lovely, lathers nicely and leaves skin smooth. It's like body lotion to shower with. Definitely going to purchase this. It's on par with my all time favourite Johnsons shower gel.

02. tresemme dry shampoo

A happy dance was in full force once I'd realised this can was done. Dry shampoo and I haven't always seen eye to eye and unfortunately, this was the worst one I have tried. It left my hair feeling dusty and strange and the white sheen it left behind took ages to fade. Oh, and it didn't actually make my hair feel any cleaner. Sorry, rant over.

03. dove nourishing oil conditioner

From what I hear, everyone and their dog loves this stuff. I am no exception. It's well priced and does the job much better than any conditioner I've tried to date. Um, just make sure you're not actually using this on your pets. ;)

04. nude skincare samples

I got a few good uses out of these sample packets and reviewed them in a skincare junkie stash post. I'm unsure as to whether I'd buy the full sizes for now though.

05. aveda style prep smoother

This stuff really works on wet hair to smooth it out and make it shiny and sleek. Unfortunately, I'm not too keen on the smell and that's the only reason I wouldn't but the full size of this. Review here.

06. comfort zone vital leg cream gel

A hybrid between a lotion and a gel which leaves a nice cooling sensation on the skin. Great for after shaving, sun burnt legs or soreness after a long day. I wonder where I can find this stuff to purchase.

That's all for empties this month. A couple things are on their last legs but I'll save them for next time. ;)

xo

may favourites

I just had the not-so pleasure of reading a scary screamer comic with the sound high and my ear phones in. So, to lighten the mood I thought I'd post my May favourites. There are a couple products I started using in the last week of May that I'm liking but you'll have to wait to hear about those later. ;)

01. la roche-posay lipikar baume

For dry, itchy, red, sore, rash induced skin - this stuff is awesome in a tube! It doesn't leave a greasy finish and pretty much lacks scent so it won't battle with other products you're using.With the hot weather we were having and the lack of socks being worn, it's great for keeping feet looking their best. I don't like talking about feet but sometimes they have to make celebrity appearances, right?

02. caudalie beauty elixir

Here's a product that doesn't get enough loving these days. *sarcasm* It has made itself cosy in my morning skincare routine and has helped in smoothing my complexion for makeup and the scent is quite calming.

03. saaf ultimate moisture face serum

Perhaps it's the heat, but lately, I've been experiencing random patches of dryness on my well-known oily t-zone. Sense, it makes not but this serum has been clearing that right up! It soaks into the skin well without leaving a shiny, oily sheen behind. Whilst on the topic of Saaf Skincare, they've really become one of my favourite brands of May. I have a post coming up all about them so stay tuned!

04. elizabeth arden overnight cream

This cute little sample pot has been lasting me forever and I'm glad. It's the richest, creamiest night cream I've ever had the pleasure of using. It smooths over the skin nicely and well, naturally, it has a mahoosive price tag. Can't say I didn't see that one coming.

05. beautyuk nail polishes

For a cheaper "drugstore" brand, these nail polishes are surprisingly really nice. In both formula and presentation. For the warmer weather these two colours have been my favourite. Unfortunately, they don't come with individual names. They are an orangey red shade and a nice bright pink.

06. ysl rogue pur couture lipstick (shade 16)

I recently posted about this purchase but I've actually been using this lipstick since the beginning of May! I wanted to lean towards the orangey shades in preparation for Summer and this is perfect for me. I like bolder lipsticks and with this soft and smooth texture I'm a happy bunny.

07. smashbox high definition concealer

This made a first appearance in my march favourites. It's back because I've been heavily relying on this  in the last few weeks. With my skin improving greatly, I'm attempting to slowly ease myself off foundations and into light powders. Of course, as the scars still remain, I need a good concealer to cover it up.

08. givenchy very irresistible

This has been my fragrance for the month. A floral and elegant scent that I find light enough for the day time as well as the evening. I still have a thing for Burberry Body though.

That's all for the beauty favourites of the month. I've decided to add in a monthly Spotify playlist just to spice things up a bit. A selection of songs I've bee liking in May plus an additional track that wormed its way into my head and annoyed me for 30 days. Can guess which one it is? ;)

May's Music 

What have been your May favourites?

xo
Don't forget to check out my current giveaway here!