Review / Bioderma Photoderm Ski Spf 50+

Bioderma is mostly famous for their Sensibio H2o Micelle Solution; it's one of my favourite French pharmacy brands and personally, I think that their micellar water is still the best on the market. 

Apart from the well deserved fame for this product, Bioderma offers a vast skincare and suncare range; for example, I swear by Bioderma Sensibio Light Cream that is a lightweight, milky formulation and ideal for my intolerant sensitive skin. 

Bioderma  Photoderm Ski Spf 50+* is a new product, part of their suncare line for extreme exposure to the sun It's particularly indicated for high altitude activities when the skin is subject to aggression from the sun and the cold together.

The Spf 50+  especially guarantees high protection on sunny days on the slopes when the harmful rays are high and reflected on the snow surface; it offers maximum anti-UVB and anti-UVA efficacy to protect from sunburn and premature ageing, too.

Whilst the ingredients aim at protecting from the sun, the formula has been designed to create a barrier and to protect from cold temperatures (up to -10C) and harsh winds. 

This item has the convenience of a 2-in-1 product; in the tube, you get the sunscreen cream for the face - and in the screw top, you'll find a spheric applicator for the lips.
The consistency is also different: the cream has a thicker, white, nourishing texture to avoid the skin from becoming dehydrated; whilst the lip balm feels balmy, like any other lip balm, and prevents chapped lips.
Definitely a handy wee tube to carry with you on your next winter holiday!

Have you tried any product from Bioderma before?

Haul / Beauty Swap

Few weeks before Christmas, my sister came over to the UK, so we arranged for a beauty swap; they are basically items that we were not using anymore/didn't suit us so we donated them to the other one.

I think I got some pretty good items here:

Helena Rubinstein Color Clone Subli-Mat Foundation in 22 Rose' Apricot - I've been wanting to try this foundation for a while and it didn't disappoint! It feels like silk on the skin and it transforms into powder, once blended; I think this is perfect for warmer countries (I will definitely invest in a bottle to use when I'm in Italy), because it does stay matte and perfect for many hours and it has an SPF12, too. It's such a shame that Helena Rubinstein is discontinued in UK, I think it's amazing quality make up and often snubbed when people do holiday hauls; I heartily recommend to check this brand, next time you're in Sephora - the mascaras and velvet lipsticks are my favourites.

Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill in 10 Airy Jade - She has 3/4 of these and she let me choose one; I picked this frosty silver with blue undertones because I don't have anything similar in my collection; the consistency is dreamy and I've been looking forward to try one of these for a while. It's also beautiful just in the inner corner, paired with a deeper blue.

Shiseido Hydro Powder Eye Shadow in H13 Clover Dew - The prettiest mint colour for eyes. I think it can look really nice as a simple wash of colour in Spring, without looking outdated. The formula feels very creamy to the touch but transforms into powder, on application; I'm impressed! I was definitely expecting more creasing but they are actually true to their claim.

L'Oreal Color Infallible in 026 Golden Mahogany -  I was so excited about this colour! I'm not sure if this was ever released in UK, but I've been looking for this shade since I saw it on a Canadian youtube channel, over a year ago; then, my sister spotted it at a jumbo sale and got it for me! :)

Kiko Fierce Spirit Sun Bronzing Blush in 103 Mariachi Pink - This blusher is perfection! You get a blush, highlighter and bronzer in one and the 3 colours combined are the most stunning and flattering shade. I'd actually been 'borrowing' it during the summer, so she finally gave it to me since I love it so much… awww… :) 

If you get the chance to try any Pupa Make Up, definitely invest in these Multiplay Triple-Purpose Eye Pencil. They come in every possible colour of the rainbow, they are super soft to work with and long lasting. I have no. 22 (Silver) and no. 24 (Green), which I've been in love with forever; I like to use them on the lower lashline to brighten up the eyes.

Kiko Eye Pencil in 102 is another pretty lilac shade - not as soft as the Pupa pencils but still a decent eye product, especially for the price. 

Finally, you may have already spotted the Essence Happy Holidays Nail Sweets in action, here & here. I had fun using them and they are quick to apply too; they come with glue - similar to false lashes - and I have to say that they lasted longer than expected on the nails. 

Any particular product that caught your eye? :)

Shopping My Stash / #11

This week, I've been using the MeMeMe Seventh Heaven primer which never fails to keep me matte; I used it to 'counteract' Daniel Sandler Invisible Radiance Foundation (link) dewiness (I haven't been feeling in the mood for this look in winter) but still providing a good coverage; I also set my base with Mac Mineralize SkinFinish Natural in medium. All together a pretty full face but still quick and easy to achieve every morning.

I skipped the highlighter and only used Nars Blush in Sin (link) which is winter epitomised!

On the eyes, I played with different combinations of browns and greens from the Urban Decay Oz Theodora Palette (link) and Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in zero which stands even the wettest of days.
Finally on the lips, I used Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 096 macaroon (link): the berry/brown shade works really well with Sin and it's moisturising for my wind-battered lips :(

Have you used any of those products before?

Recent Loves / Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette

Urban Decay is bringing pink back… and this is making me sooo happy!

I've been wanting to get a Naked Palette for a while but I just couldn't decide between the 1&2… when the 3rd came along just at the right time.

Pinks, purples have always been my favourite eyeshadow colours and only in recent years, I've been exploring more the neutral side of the spectrum (I guess partially because bloggers seems to be really keen on neutrals - am I right?!) ;)

The pinks for the Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette are the PERFECT compromise!

They are still muted and suitable if, like me, you're over 30s and you fear pink hues don't suit you anymore.

My favourites are Buzz, Nooner, Burnout and Darkside. They are the same high quality that we are accustomed to, with Urban Decay eyeshadows: soft like butter, smooth like silk and nicely pigmented.

Trick is an interesting cooper shade with orangy undertones that would look great with blue eyes; Blackheart is a deep purple/nearly black that doubles as eyeliner with gorgeous red/pink shimmer.

Factory, Mugshot and Liar are bound to be very popular since they are the shades with the most amount of brown/taupe; Strange and Limit are matte base colours, one cooler and the other warmer.

I guess Dust is the only shade that I was disappointed with: It's beautiful but I found it to be a bit chunky, therefore I experienced the most fall out; it's easily manageable, using the colour wet.

l-r: Strange, Dust, Burnout, Limit

l-r: Buzz, Trick, Nooner, Liar

l-r: Factory, Mugshot, Darkside, Blackheart

As a bonus, you also get 4 samples of the legendary Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion  and of course, a double-ended Karma brush. The original primer is a staple in my daily routine and I'm particularly interested in trying the anti-aging version. 

If naked shades are not your thing, I just saw today a spoiler for a new Urban Decay Electric Palette (check my Twitter for a photo) - no release date just as yet - and yes, you guessed it, it's BOLD and cheerful! ;)

In the meantime, you can paint your eyes rainbow with the Urban Decay Vice 2 Palette!

Review / Weleda Calendula Weather Protection Cream

We may not have been affected by the arctic vortex but still have our fair share of freezing temperatures in the Uk.

Sudden changes between hot & cold are also extremely damaging for the skin and every winter, I'm left with dry patches and cracked lips.

It's particularly important to protect from the wind and if you're - like me - a fellow commuter then I'd recommend to try Weleda Calendula Weather Protection Cream* that caters for the whole family. In fact, Weleda Calendula range has been specifically formulated for the delicate skin of babies, therefore suitable for adult and sensitive skin too.

The whole line (includes body lotion, soap, massage oil, nappy cream, …) contains calendula officinalis which helps wound healing, reduce inflammation, and - as an antiseptic - is also prescribed for minor burns, cuts and ulcerations. 

Weleda Calendula Weather Protection Cream comes like a balmy yellow gel and appears a bit oily straight out of the tube; I was pleasantly surprise with the consistency because it's not sticky at all and whilst it creates a barrier, it also absorbs fairly quickly into the skin. 

I've been putting a layer on my lips, nostrils and hands before leaving the house in the mornings and I can put my gloves on in a matter of minutes; then I reapply it at lunchtime when I go for a wee stroll with my walking group at work.

Whilst Weleda Skin Food is a reliable cream to repair needy skin at the end of the day, Weleda Calendula Weather Protection Cream has become my go-to product to prevent damage from chilly weather.

Have you tried the Weleda Calendula range yet?

Haul / The Body Shop + Valentine's Day Ideas

Whilst shopping for presents before Christmas, I treated myself to few products from The Body Shop; their offers are simply too good to resist so I stocked up on few favourites (and discovered new loves).

The Body Shop scrubs are my absolute favourites hands down but I have to admit that I have never tried the Cocoa Butter Cream Body Scrub before; I guess, I usually go for more 'unusual' or limited edition scents but I decided to sniff it, out of curiosity, and I was sold: rich yet not overpowering.

It's kinda of thick cream consistency with evident scrubbing bits in it - hardcore, how i like it!

I fell in love with The Body Shop Vineyard Peach Body Butter (link) few months ago and I couldn't resist getting the matching Vineyard Peach Cream Body Scrub too. The consistency is thinner than the Cocoa Butter one - I guess it will be easier to spread and use on dry skin, will see how it fairs.

 I don't spend much money on shower products (I guess because they just go down the drain so quickly) but I love getting indulging bath products because I enjoy relaxing baths quite often.

The Honeymania Bubble Bath Melt looks exactly like honey when drizzled under running water and creates a ton of bubbles. It's a big tub that will last for a long time and I'm certainly savouring using it!

I've been interested in trying the soap-free shower gels for some time and I chose the Moringa Shower Gel - which has a sweet floral scent.

I also got this Almond Hand & Nail Cream Gift Set from my Secret Santa at work, which I was thrilled about because it's right up my street; I have used this hand cream before (Hemp, Absinthe) but not the Almond yet… I love the scent so much!!! 

Finally, I wanted to share a couple of ideas if you're looking for a special gift; Valentine's Day is fast approaching and The Body Shop offers many options for any budget and taste.

My favourite gifts are this cute Heart Lollipop Lip Butters, which includes 5 different lip butters; I understand that the Body Butter Lollipops were a great hit during the Christmas holidays and they have been given a revamp with an heart-shaped box.

Perfect to give the sweetest and most delicious kisses! ;)

… or the Chocolate & Strawberry Shower Gel Duo, the ideal his&her gift set to treat yourself and your loved one, for some smellicious quality time together!

Haul / January Sales - Clothes Edition

Few things I picked up in the last couple of weeks…

Oasis Lace Gothic Dress in red £85 £40

Originally I wanted this dress in black but when I tried them, the red definitely suited me better; I like the high neck and long sleeves and of course, I can't resist anything lace! I think it will look great with black opaque tights and platform heels.

French Connection Winter Sloanie Slub Jumper in windsor green £69 £34

I don't shop in French Connection very often: I think it's hugely overpriced and, yes, you see stuff that I like   from time to time but nothing unique. I actually still had a gift card from last Christmas to spend so I picked up this pretty jumper. I fell in love with the colour and I like that it's slightly longer on the back.

Warehouse Borg Collar Biker Coat £100 £55

So chuffed with this coat! I have been eyeing it for months and since I tried it on in November, I nearly bought it full price. It's simply me to a T! ;)

It's the perfect mix of smart and edgy; I like the sheep's skin lapel, low skirted waist and the shiny effect of the fabric.

 

Monsoon Fun Sparkle Beanie

Well, technically not a sale purchase as I paid full price (£10); also, this is technically a child's hat but I have such a small head that all normal hats end up falling on my eyes.
I like it! :)

Missoni Yellow Patterned Scarf £99 £30

I heart Missoni!

I spotted few different scarves in TkMaxx before Christmas but I simply couldn't make up my mind on the colour; I finally decided on this design and it was even further reduced… score! ;)

It's soooooo soft.

Anything you like? :)

Review / milk_shake Active Milk Mask

Since I ombred my hair, I started to pay extra attention to my haircare routine. Luckly, i don't think the dye has damaged them but prevention is better than cure, right?
Milk_shake Active Milk Mask* is a restructuring mask for dry or damaged hair but I reckon is suitable for most hair types in need of a bit of TLC. Their products are inspired by the simple use of the power of nature, where ingredients (like dairy proteins) are used as food for the hair.
It contains milk proteins, rice & avocado oils and vitamin E that hydrate and nourish and at the same time reinforce the follicles. The consistency is like a thick gel but not heavy, spread easily and quick to wash off.

I love that it's fast acting! For how much I love to treat myself with a full-on pampering session, I simply don't have the time to do so weekly; you simply apply the mask on damp hair, after shampooing, leave it on for 3/5 mins and finally rinse.

 It also has a lovely, sweet scent that reminds me of white chocolate buttons that leaves the hair softly scented and soft to the touch. :)

I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that Milk_Shake is an italian brand and I'm looking forward to try other products too. You can find their range on Hairtrade.com, the Uk's leading online retailer of hair extensions, hair care and beauty products.

Christmas Presents

A bit late with a Christmas presents haul but I'm always in two minds when sharing gifts 'cos there's always the risk of people thinking you're bragging; personally, I love reading these posts - I'm noisy like that - and it's a great way to get ideas and find undiscovered gems. :)

Gorgeous DKNY bag - the colour is in between brown/grey - smart looking and I will definitely save it for special occasions.

People know me well and they have been certainly feeding my pugs & owls obsession! :)

Check out these pugs salt&pepper shakers - Awesome or what?!!!

I love watching American Pickers and my husband got me a t-shirt from the States - love the rooster logo!

The frame with the wire is an handmade jewellery holder; the shabby-chic feel is right up my alley and it will look perfect against the purple wall in the bedroom.

Basilur Tea is a tea brand that I discovered few years ago and my mum sent me a new selection book over the holidays; I don't normally like fruity teas but their selection are delicious/yet not too sweet. I'd definitely recommend to check their website http://basilurtea.co.uk if you're a tea junkie - prices are average and their packagings are beautiful too.

Beauty related goodies: Especially Escada Eau de Parfum is a fragrance that I've been liking since it came out few years ago; it's described as joyful and light-hearted and I couldn't agree more - definitely not overpowering.

My sister also got me this Laura Ashley Fig Tree & Cassis Hand Wash & Hand Lotion Gift Set because she knows I love fig scents; this smells like proper fig leaves with a sweet twist and the hand lotion is also very good quality and light. I don't shop in Laura Ashley often enough, they are currently having a massive sale and I will make sure to pop in and check it out.

Finally… Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette! Yes, I couldn't resist and asked Santa for it. I will do a dedicated post with swatches soon.