Organic Surge | Super Rich Body Butter in 'Lavender Meadow'

Body butters are an absolute must-have for me.  I kid you not, it's like the body butter version of Jenga on the sides of my bath right now - I'm obsessed.  I often have a few on the go at the same time and new to the towering stack is Organic Surge's 'Lavender Meadow' Super Rich Body Butter (£15.75*).  As winter takes its toll on my skin, I often find myself searching for something slightly richer than your average and Organic Surge's offering sounded sure to be just the ticket.  Enriched with natural oils and with a super-thick, buttery consistency - it's the perfect treat for dry, thirsty skin.  

The butter itself seems to have a pearlised effect when you take off the lid - it really is quite inviting and looks luxurious.  I have to say, the lavender scent really is quite strong.  Now, I love a dose of lavender as I find it helps me to sleep, but even for me - this is quite overpowering and floral.  It's not one that I'd apply before a night out as it could have a tendency to completely take over your perfume - but it's lovely for use in the evenings after a bath before you go sleep.  It's very soothing to the senses.  The butter itself is very thick in consistency and feels very rich - almost like a moisturising paste.  Personally, I found it took quite a while to get it to massage in but it doesn't leave a greasy residue whatsoever - in fact, it doesn't leave any sort of tacky feeling on the skin at all.  It's not what I expected and usually I do prefer for my skin to feel a little more 'quenched', but if you're the type who likes to moisturise and go then this would be perfect.  

Although it is without a doubt very moisturising, I'm not sure the consistency is for me.  I've been enjoying using it before bed - particularly on my arms and chest as I do find it helps to relax me if I'm feeling a bit stressed but I'm not sure if it would be an instant re-purchase for me.  It takes a little more working in than what I'm used to.  It's nice little treat to use in the evenings and seems to work best when your skin is a little warmer and you've just got out of the bath, but I prefer something a little more creamy. Overall though - I've enjoyed using it and I'd recommend it if you're really suffering with dry skin and want something a little more sumptuous.  You can find the Super Rich Body Butter on the Organic Surge website here, priced at £15.75*.

7 Festively Scented Pamper Products

I thought I'd continue with the Christmassy themed posts this week and introduce a few of my favourite festive pampering products.  I really love the whole build-up to Christmas and I get ever so excited - for me, it's often better than the day itself and I like to make the most of things by switching up my every day products for a select few that get me into the festive spirit.  If you can't treat yourself at Christmas, when can you?! With the darker evenings and colder weather, nothing makes me want to curl up and relax more than having a small collection of 'go to'  winter warmers!  If you're after a bit of stocking-filler inspiration or just fancy treating yourself on the run-up to the big day, hopefully this post might be of some use! Here's what I'll be using throughout the month of December...

Organic Surge // Spiced Lily Foaming Bath // £5.99 for 250ml // Link

This is such a fabulous winter product and although I enjoy using it at Christmas, I use it all throughout the autumn/winter season as it's just so comforting and warming.  It has quite a thick gel consistency and makes for the perfect winter bubble bath as you only need a small amount.  The spicy, yet gentle scent is so relaxing and soothing and the essential oils and aloe vera extracts means that it's also softening on the skin. It featured in a 'festive bath soaks' post on my blog last year.

LUSH // Snow Fairy // £3.75 for 100g // Link 

An all time Christmas classic - LUSH's 'Snow Fairy' is a cult favourite for a reason! It's not exactly the most festively scented product ever but because I've been buying it for years, it really does remind me of Christmas.  Although it's a sweet scent, it has a bit of a 'kick' to it that's quite hard to describe - definitely one for the girly girls amongst you!  The scent also lingers on the skin after you've got out of the bath so it's a nice one to use before a christmas party or night out!

LUSH // Hot Toddy // £3.95 for 100g // Link

A new found favourite of mine! I spoke about it in a recent post so I won't say too much - but if you could bottle the scent of Christmas and sell it as a bath product - you'd have yourself some Hot Toddy! It smells like traditional Christmas - with hints of cinnamon it's very spicy and warming and the dark red colour swirled with golden glitter makes for the perfect festive blend.

LUSH // Yog Nog Soap // £3.40 per 100g // Link

Again, I won't speak about this too much as I've written a full review not too long ago - but this has to be my newest addiction! I'm not usually one for soaps but I've been converted with this one.  To me, it smells like creme brûlée with a very subtle spicy hint.  I don't even need to use it to smell it - it's sat on a dish in my bathroom and it makes the room smell like festive sweetness constantly. Yummy! Its very creamy and softening on the skin, and the scent lingers very faintly on the skin after your bath. 

Teapigs // Spiced Winter Red Tea // £4.49 // Link

I actually have a full post about this product from last year here, but if you're a fellow tea-belly like myself - you need Teapigs' Spiced Winter Red tea in your life.  It's like drinking Christmas in a mug -  it's really warming and the scent is seriously spicy. Flavour-wise, it has hints of orange and berry, with a little cinnamon-like kick. I can always tell when I have some brewing because it makes the room smell so festive  - it's a nice one to treat yourself to as you're wrapping presents, having a cosy night in or watching a Christmas film. A must-have for Christmas Eve!!

Tisserand // Seasonal Joy Vapourising Oil // £5.50 // Link

Ok. Out of the whole bunch - this has to be the product I've been most excited about using. Seriously, it's been sat on my bedside table since the beginning of October and I'm so so happy that it's finally time to use it. As I don't use candles an awful lot (without sounding silly I'm the clumsiest person ever and they're just a fire hazard around me!) I rely on oils like this to fragrance a room.  I used this non-stop last year and I absolutely adore it. It has that typical traditional Christmas scent - rich, orange-y, with hints of spice and calming to the senses.  There's a number of different ways you can use it but I simply drop some of the oil onto a thin tissue and place it on top of my radiator - job done.  As soon as the room heats up, it's filled with the scent of Christmas.

Hugo Boss // 'Orange' Perfume // Price Varies // Link

Now then, this isn't exactly a Christmas product but it's perfect for the colder months.  I've never worn another perfume quite so much as this one - and although I wear it year round, I really do enjoy using it around Christmas time.  I always seem to get compliments on it whenever I wear it and it's also really long-lasting.  The orange hints are so beautiful and it's just such a luxurious fragrance to wear.  Definitely one for Christmas day! 

What are your favourite festively scented products?!

Christmas at LUSH | 'Yog Nog' Festive Soap

If you ever need an excuse to pop into LUSH, it's the moment they release their festive range.  It's my favourite time of year for treating myself to bath goodies and I always find myself wandering in to my local store much more frequently as soon as the dark nights and chilly weather starts rolling in.  I love to stock up on a few pamper treats and I always pick my favourite selection for an extra-special bath on Christmas Eve night...it's my annual routine. Usually, I'll make a beeline straight for the Snow Fairy shower gel (who doesn't?), but this year - well - I seem to have gotten a little daring in my old age.  I have to say I'm not usually one for the soap selection. I tried 'Rockstar' once and although I liked it, I just didn't find myself going crazy over it - but I took one sniff of 'Yog Nog' and knew I had to try it.  I'm a sucker for anything sweet or vanilla scented and the moment I caught a whiff of the creamy, creme-brulee like scent (with a hint of christmas-y spice), I was sold. 

Said to be a 'creamy Christmas tipple of a soap' and a 'creamy skin drink', this stuff is seriously divine.  As soon as you pick it up it begins to melt in your hands (it contains moisturising soya yoghurt as well as ylang ylang essential oils) - its beautifully soft.  It's topped with a dusting of aromatic cocoa powder just to add an extra little dose of sweetness, and due to the essential oils it contains, it has a lovely little hint of cinnamon-like spice in there too.  Personally, the scent reminds me of creme brûlée - it's very milky and seriously smells good enough to eat.

When used in the bath it melts into a lovely, milky consistency - its really easy to get a good bit of product onto the skin and it feels really moisturising to massage in.  It's soft to the touch, lathers into a thick cream and leaves your skin feeling soothed and pampered.  The fragrance leaves your bathroom smelling all sweet and yummy and I always feel so relaxed after I've used it - the scent actually fills my landing and drifts into my bedroom long after I've gotten out of the bath.  It does linger on the skin slightly afterwards - you're left with a very subtle hint of sweetness but I secretly wished it would stick around a little longer - i guess that's just my personal preference!  Overall, a fab LUSH product and if you love sweet scents, you'll love this one.  I really wish they'd bring out a shower gel version too! You find 'Yog Nog' on the LUSH website here, priced at £3.40 per 100g.

Have you tried Yog Nog? What's your favourite festive LUSH product this year?

Brand Focus: Organic Surge | Shower Gels

Organic Surge is a brand I've been familiar with for a while now and I've featured a few of their products here on Bird's Words. Their cruelty free products are 100% free of harsh chemicals, parabens, artificial fragrances and colourants and are full of naturally derived, nourishing ingredients and fragrant essential oils.  My favourite product has to be their '2 Minute Moisture Hair Mask' and it's one that I've repurchased a couple of times since I first tried it. I'm also a big fan of their 'First Class Face Mask' and their facial moisturisers as well as their bath foams (I'm a bit of a bath product junkie!) I just think the whole brand hits the nail on the head when it comes to affordable skin/body care and the entire brand ethos is something I really feel drawn to. Sometimes, I feel as if natural products can be very hit and miss but Organic Surge really have impressed me and their products really do work.  I'm also really excited to see that they've introduced some Travel Sized products to their range - I'll definitely be stocking up on the minis the next time I jet away on holiday or find myself away from home for a while.

Today, I thought I'd focus on their range of shower gels.  I'm aware it's difficult to get excited over a shower gel but as shower gels go, these one's are a treat I tells ya! Each one contains 250ml and they last absolutely ages.  I find them to be really nourishing on the skin and the thick, gel consistency means that even the tiniest blob gets a good bit of lather going on (a very crucial factor for me!) I've tried 4 of their gels now and each one is deliciously scented whilst providing a range different benefits...I find it difficult to pick a favourite!

Fresh Ocean | £4.95* | Link

This is the newest addition to my little OS stash! Enriched with lime, rosemary and lemon oils this one is rather refreshing.  It isn't overly citrus-y which I really like -its just the right sort of balance for me and the 'ocean' hint definitely comes across. This one is said to be beneficial for dull or dry skin, whilst helping to soothe irritation with it's intense natural moisturisers.

Citrus Mint | £4.95* | Link

This is one for those early morning showers! Citrus Mint is really refreshing but with a certain 'kick' to it! I find it to be really awakening and I love using it when I need a bit of a perk up! It also contains healing aloe vera which is great for irritation and blemishes - I went through a stage where I had a few little blemishes on my back and I have to say this helped no end.  It helped to keep my skin looking clear and calmed and it really does seem to help keep my skin clear.  It's also a good one for summer time as it helps to cool the skin and leaves it feeling really refreshed.

Tropical Bergamot Shower Gel | £4.95* | Link

I know summer is coming to an end, but this one really has been a firm favourite for me over the past few weeks.  It reminds me of Solero ice lollies! Yummy! Sweet orange and bergamot oils help to cleanse the skin and the uplifting fragrance provides a lovely little mood boost.

Super Fresh Body Wash 'Awakening' | £5.99* | Link

A little pricier than the other shower gels, this one is said to target and stimulate the senses for a naturally 'uplifting' effect - containing a blend of spicy may chang and bergamot oils. I prefer to use this in the mornings, it has a similar effect to the Citrus Mint but is a little more warming and 'zingy'...

Overall, I really recommend these body washes.  They're a little pricier than your average but they hardly break the bank and the mix of essential, natural oils combined with their range of unique, beautiful scents make them well worth it.  Like i said earlier in this post, I've repurchased a couple of products from them now and this is the type of thing I'd add to my basket for an added treat now and again - it's worth mentioning that they often have offers on as well as providing different 'bundles' (I signed up to their email newsletter and often get little codes and heads up on offers). If you're after little 'stocking fillers' these make lovely little gifts - I'm not sure if it's just my graphic design background coming out in me, but I really like the whole brand appearance too. You can find the range of shower gels and bath goodies on their website here.

Have you tried Organic Surge? What's been your favourite product so far?

Summer Coolers | Arran Aromatics

Arran Aromatics have to be one of my favourite brands when it comes to skin solutions and body care. Their Lavender and Tea Tree Facial Wash made it into my 'Top 13 of 2013' (post here) and I found a new body-pampering fave in their 'Velvet Isle' Shea Butter not long ago (post here).  I've since placed more orders on their website and am always intrigued by their product range - if you're after something a little bit different from the lotions and potions you find on the high-street, they're well worth looking into. They also do some fabulous gift-y bits and I often have a little nosey on their website to see what's new (I must recommend their Island Spa and Velvet Isle ranges - I love them!) Just recently, I've been trying out a selection of their products all said to help soothe, calm and cool - perfect for the summer season. They've been welcome additions to my routine of late - the warmer weather and a rather sunny holiday in Crete has left my skin crying out for some pampering. Here's what I thought of the selection...

Aloe Vera Energising Body Gel | £8.50* | Link

This is the first product I tried when I returned home from my holiday.  Although I didn't burn at all, it's fair to say my skin was feeling a little parched and in need of some love.  Although I always pile on the aftersun (I'm a sun-care obsessive!), I like to look for generic lotions and gels which contain Aloe Vera during the summer as I find them much more soothing to the skin. It's the only time of year when I actually start looking for lighter lotions instead of thick body butters (as much as I love my pamper sessions!) I actually took to placing this gel in the fridge and applying after I'd been outside or tottling around town for the day (great if you've caught the sun and need a quick cool down!).  The witch hazel and aloe vera really does help to soothe and calm any redness, and the cooling, fresh scent adds to the sensation.  I really liked the gel consistency and the fact it doesn't leave my skin feeling tacky or greasy whilst still providing some nourishment. It sinks in so quickly and leaves behind a really subtle, fresh scent. I actually find it quite addictive and - little tip for you here - I sometimes keep it by my bed on warmer nights as it's great for an instant refresh if you're feeling a bit stuffy! It's just a nice, refreshing end to the day and it's definitely earnt itself a space in my fridge for the rest of summer!

Mint and Coriander Skin Smoother with Apricot Seeds | £4.50* | Link

I have to admit, this is one product I haven't used too much since I received it.  At first, I thought it was a generic body exfoliant as it doesn't mention on the label that it's actually for your feet!  I already have a body exfoliant on the go, so I figured I'd save it - however, when preparing this post and discovering it's intended purpose, I thought I'd actually give it a whirl and give my tootsies a treat. After shimmying around in flip-flops for 2 weeks, they needed a little bit of TLC!  It's much more harsh than your average body bar, that's for sure! It left my skin feeling smooth and revitalised, and the exfoliating seeds worked a treat. I found the mint fragrance really quite refreshing and the shape of the bar meant that it was easy to work with.

Peppermint & Lavender Foot Rub | £7.50* | Link

Oohhh this has to be my favourite product of the bunch. The consistency is what instantly sold it to me. It almost has a mousse-like quality to it whilst still remaining moisturising and soothing to apply. It definitely does seem to melt into the skin and that's exactly why I like it - it doesn't feel heavy or greasy and it's quick and easy to apply. Honestly, I love it.  It contains essential oils so it has great nourishing properties, and the peppermint and lavender scent helps to cool, soothe and comfort. It instantly cools the skin and you can feel it working as soon as you rub it in. I'd have loved something like this when I worked in the shop all day! If you work a job where you're on the go all the time and often come home feeling rather achey and 'flop on the sofa' tired - this is the perfect end-of-the-day treat.

Green Tea Eye Gel | £3.50* | Link

This is another one of my favourites.  I've previously tried one of Arran Aromatics Eye Gels (featured in this post) so I was really excited to give their Green Tea version a go.  As a lover of Green Tea (I know, I'm probably in the minority who actually enjoy knocking it back), I knew I'd love this.  I adore the scent of it - it definitely has a herbal sort of hint to it and I find it so incredibly refreshing.  Again, like the Aloe Vera gel, I've taken to popping this in the fridge and it's a very welcome treat for when my eyes are feeling a little bit tired.  It says to help reduce puffiness and fine lines, whilst extracts of Green Tea, Witch Hazel and powerful anti-oxidants help to soothe and revitalise the delicate skin around the eyes. For £3.50, these eye gels are really lovely.  They're definitely not the most moisturising - however, I love to use them for a 'refresh' and I always feel much more awake once i've popped some on. Great for summer.

Have you tried anything from Arran Aromatics before? If so, leave me your recommendations!

Getting Bikini-Ready | Soap & Glory's 'The Firminator' Review

I don't usually buy into the whole 'apply this cream and you'll soon have a bottom to rival the likes of Kim K' claims on products, however, there's something about Soap & Glory's 'The Firminator' that intrigued me.  Maybe it was the shiny packaging, maybe it was the quirky name... or maybe it was just because Soap & Glory were on a 3 for 2 offer and I needed one more product in my basket - either way - I didn't really expect much from it but I have to say - I've been pleasantly surprised. So much so I had no issues with going out to buy my second tube of the stuff and didn't think twice about parting with the £12.00 - which, lets face it, isn't the cheapest of firming creams on the market to say you can pick up budget ones for much less than a fiver (saying that, it's not the most expensive either so one cannot grumble).  So what exactly does it do? 'The Firminator' (see what you did there, S&G...) claims to visually smooth and rejuvenate the skin around the upper thighs whilst firming and toning any lumps and bumps - generally having a tightening effect on the area.  It works best if you apply twice a day, smoothing it from the inner knees up towards the tops of the thighs - you know the score. 

I have to say I've been applying it pretty religiously and after about a few weeks, I noticed a difference. Now then, I'll admit straight away that it's probably not entirely down to this cream that I've clocked a change. If you follow me on Twitter you'll know I've been on a bit of a toning mission the past few months and have been working mainly on my legs/bum - I've been doing the typical squats, leg lifts and lunges thing since the beginning of April/mid-March so it would be fair to say I cannot claim my results have been entirely down to using this - but I really do believe it's helped along the way.  If ever I've had a day where I just haven't felt like doing any exercise (i try and give myself one rest day a week anyway), I'll apply some of this and it feels as if it's doing some good. It does say on the tube that you'll be more likely to notice the combined results of your efforts if you eat healthily and take up regular exercise whilst applying the cream daily (which I guess is kind of obvious) - and I'd say it's helped to smooth out the appearance of my skin considerably.  In fact, I did the 'changing room' test the other day and for once I really did notice a difference (if ever you want to see results of your hard work then get in a changing room - it will either make you or break you ;)) Again, please bare in mind I have been doing regular exercise but I think combining it with this cream has without a doubt helped to reach my goal quicker - the exercise lifts and tones the area whilst the cream has visibly smoothed the skin and helped to get rid/prevent any lumps and bumps.  Obviously, don't expect miracles - it's not going to act as a replacement for regular workouts but what it will do is give you that extra little boost along the way.

The cream has a gel-like consistency and feels cooling when applied to the skin.  It smells undoubtedly very minty (it contains peppermint and citrus toning oils) and this only adds to the cooling effect - I wouldn't say it feels tightening but it does feel a little tingly. Sometimes, I'll apply it before I do my workout as I believe it helps (of course, I might just be imagining this but it's worth a shot, right?)  It sinks in really quickly which is a bonus for in the mornings when you need to apply and go - it doesn't leave a greasy film like some creams I've tried in the past.  I apply quite a generous amount both in the morning and at night, taking time to massage it upwards - once it's sank in properly it really does leave your skin feeling smooth to the touch.  Overall, I'd really recommend this if you're after a cellulite busting formula or something to help generally tighten and firm your thigh area.  I've actually read a few reviews on the Boots website and a lot of people seem to be in agreement with me that this cream makes a difference to the overall appearance of the skin (interestingly, it seems to have better reviews than their similar product 'Sit Tight').  Like I said, I'm usually very sceptical about these gels and formulas and I wouldn't have written this post if I didn't believe it's genuinely helped me.  For £12.00, it's actually pretty reasonable and one tube lasted me a good few weeks - It's extremely rare I'll ever repurchase a cream like this so it speaks volumes as to how much I've grown to love this stuff. If you're willing to be quite disciplined with it and apply it religiously morning and night (if I'd been more 'slapdash' with it I don't think I'd have noticed a difference) then I reckon you'll notice results.  Combine it with a bit of exercise and a dose of patience and I guarantee you'll be laughing all the way to the beach... Kim K? Eat your heart out!  You can find 'The Firminator' on the Boots website here.

Have you tried Soap & Glory's 'The Firminator'? Have you managed to find a firming cream that actually works?

Monthly Favourites | January

Happy February folks! I do hope you've all had a spiffing start to the new year.  Mine has certainly been a busy one to say the least and I've had a tough time keeping all the plates spinning at once - juggling blogging along with final year uni work and actually managing to maintain having a life is a task and a half! This being said, I wouldn't be a blogger unless I'd managed to make time to scout out a few new beauty favourites, would I? January is always big on the discoveries for me - so many new releases make their way into the shops before Christmas and I often rack up a few new purchases (don't we all?!).  Anyway, without further ado - I shall introduce you to my January love interests... Grab a cuppa - there's quite a few!

Urban Decay | Naked 3 Palette | Full Review

Discovery of the month goes the the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette.  I shall be honest and say I didn't expect to love this as much as the second one, but I must admit I've fallen head over heels for its rose gold gloriousness! The shades seem to really suit my skin tone at the minute - I find the rose-gold hues work really well with my eyes and I've been wearing it pretty much every day this January.  My favourite colours at the moment are 'Trick' - a beautiful rose gold and 'Factory' - a mid-toned brown.  I've also been using the matte shades 'Limit' and 'Nooner' as transition colours and for creating definition in the crease of the lid.  I have a full review including swatches and detailed photographs in this post all about the palette.

Bumble and Bumble | Thickening Hairspray |

In terms of hair products this month, this little spray has been a firm favourite of mine.  After wanting to try it for ages, I received a small bottle from my Mum for Christmas and have been blown away by it's volumising capabilities! I'm usually a mousse girl through and through, and if I'm honest I wasn't expecting this product to live up to its hype at all.  However, I've been proven wrong.  I can really see why this product received so much blogger hype.  It's amazing.  Usually, I don't find volume sprays provide that much texture or lift to the hair, but this one surely does!  I spray a little under my fringe and through the root area and after I've finished blow drying my hair looks and feels amazingly swoopy and voluminous.  I will be investing in the big bottle as soon as I run out of this miniature size as I can't stand to be without it on my dressing table at the moment.

Neal & Wolf | Heat Protection Spray |

Heat protection spray is pretty much a standard product isn't it? I don't often get excited about it at all and tend to opt for whichever one is on offer in Boots at the time.  However, I've recently been loving Neal & Wolf products (their conditioning treatment is amazing) and have found myself becoming addicted to the scent of their range.  I've mentioned it before - it's not to everybody's taste but I personally love it.  Their products have a sort of 'musky' smell to them that reminds me of being in a posh salon - if I've used Neal & Wolf on my hair I can smell it the day afterwards without fail every time I 'swish' my barnet! This is why I invested in their heat protection spray. Not only does it do an amazing job of smoothing out the hair and helping it to stay soft to the touch, it means that my hair can smell like Neal & Wolf all day long without fail! Perfect. It will be a definite re-purchase for me.

Jimmy Choo | 'Flash' | Full Review

I won't harp on too much about this little beauty as I've already written a full post on it this week which you can read here.  It's become my new every day fragrance and I adore it.  It's such a gorgeous, unique scent and it's really sophisticated and soft without compromising on staying power.  

Champneys | Skin Comforting Bath Milk (not individually pictured)

Oops. Somebody was a numpty and forgot to photograph one product out of the whole bunch - slap my wrist and call me a bad blogger! I've spoken about my love of luxurious bath products on my blog many a time before.  Through the colder months, there's nothing I look forward to more than a long, relaxing soak in a hot bath with a magazine and a candle or two. This bottle of Champney's Bath Milk has become my new favourite and I've been reaching for it loads just recently.  I must admit, when I first smelt it I wasn't instantly sold - it's quite a 'soapy' sort of smell. I'm aware I'm really not selling it amazingly well here - but it really is such a gorgeous, perfumed 'spa-like' scent. It fills the bathroom with a beautiful aroma within seconds and it always leaves me feeling all pampered and relaxed.  Its milky consistency fills the bath with moisture and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth to the touch when you step out of the bath. 

Clinique | Bottom Lash Mascara
Now then, now then.  Where do I begin with this little beauty?!  I don't want to say too much as I'm planning on dedicating a full post to it soon - it deserves it's own space on the ol' bloggles that's for sure!  I really have no idea why on earth I never purchased this before.  For so many years, I have struggled with mascara leaving black smudges and flecks underneath my eyes.  I have quite long bottom lashes and always like to use mascara to show them off to their best potential - but I always felt as if it was a wasted effort because an hour later I'd resemble a panda. Not in a cute way either.  Clinique's Bottom Lash mascara has solved this problem and I haven't experienced any smudging whatsoever since I started using this.  The teeny-tiny brush is amazing at picking up every single individual lash and my eyelashes have looked a million and one times better since I bought this. Honestly - if you're in the same boat as me I urge you to give this a try. 

Mac | Sculpting Cream in 'Accentuate'
Mac Sculpting Creams have become a firm favourite in my routine just recently - which is a bit of a shame since you can't pick them up anymore.  I actually bought this off Lisa's blog sale a while back now and have been using it ever since (I also bought the shade 'Coffee Walnut' which is gorgeous for a strong contour look!). This shade is a perfect highlighter! I'm not one for shimmery highlighters and very rarely feel the need to add one to my face on a daily basis (I go through phases with them) but this little pot has been the perfect solution for me.  I apply this to the tops of my cheekbones, my brow bone and my 'cupid's bow' area and blend in with a brush on top of my foundation before adding powder and it provides such an amazing, flawless finish.  Because it's a cream it doesn't look powdery either - it blends into my Nars Sheer Glow with ease and gives such a professional effect.  It looks so natural because of the lack of shimmer and sculpts the face really well.  I might have to do a tutorial on how I use cream products to contour - do let me know if it would be of interest as I find it looks much more natural than relying on powders all the time!

Benefit | Porefessional Primer | Full Review
Again, I've spoken about this product in depth on my blog over the past couple of weeks so I won't harp on too much.  It really is an amazing primer. It's one that I've maybe overlooked in the past and I have no idea why! It really does smooth out the skin and provides that 'high def' finish to your foundation.  It minimises pores (yep, it does what it says on the tin!) and gives a baby-soft feel to the skin making it the perfect base for your makeup.  My foundation has never lasted so long! Honestly, if you're going to invest in a primer and are fed up of your foundation slipping off your face or moving during the day - it's well worth the pennies.  It will make the world of difference. You can read my full review here.

And there we have it.  My January beauty preferences wrapped up in a post.  It was quite a task picking favourites this month - I've really found myself switching up my routine recently and have been using a whole array of different products.   

What have you been loving this January? Do you share my love for any of these products?

A New Favourite | Arran Aromatics 'Velvet Isle' Shea Butter Cream

Arran Aromatics | Shea Body Butter in 'Velvet Isle' | £14.50 (currently £10.88)* | Link

When winter is well and truly in full swing, there's nothing like a bit of pamper time, is there?  You know the drill - hot bath, bubbles galore and a selection of skin treats to delve into whilst you soothe away your winter woes (and by heck have I got a lot of those right now)! Body butters are a key part of my routine all year round - but during the colder months, they're a must.  I've been loving Arran Aromatics just recently - ever since I first tried one of their facial gel washes in a beauty box a few months back (featured in my favourites of 2013 post here), I've really been intrigued by their skin treats and pamper products! As well as an array of skin care goodies and aromatherapy treats (even candles!), they also have little 'collections' which all have their own unique scent and a selection of products to go with it - hand creams, oils, soaps, shampoos and conditioners and body lotions - you name it! After having a jolly good read up on each scent, I settled for their 'Shea body butter' in their 'Velvet Isle' collection.  As soon as I unwrapped it, I fell in love.  Not only with the beautiful simplistic packaging, but also with the stunning fragrance and unique texture of the butter.

The Velvet Isle collection is described as a silky blend of fresh figs, honeyed fruit and coconut. It's honestly the most delicious, luxurious scent I've ever come across in a body butter and it really was love at first whiff! The slight coconut hint gives it a sweet kick, whilst the fresh figs and honeyed fruit combine together to create a completely unique, silky fragrance that really does capture the whole 'relaxing on a desert island at sunset' sort of vibe.  And it doesn't stop there.  The whole 'silky' fragrance and theme continues into the texture of the butter - it's so smooth and buttery and rich - very much like the texture of actual butter cream.  It's much more like a true body butter as opposed to a rich lotion and is incredibly moisturising and soothing on the skin - the added vitamin E makes it even more softening to apply.  The scent lingers on the skin for ages afterwards and has such a calming influence - it really is lovely to apply after a bath before you get all snuggly in bed and it doesn't leave you feeling 'greasy' or 'sticky' in any way. To top all of this off, Arran Aromatics receive extra brownie points from me for boxing their body butters - the little gold box is the perfect finishing touch.

Overall, it's safe to say that I really have discovered a new favourite. Not only in the body butter but also in the Arran Aromatics brand.  I've since made an order on a selection of their products so I'm really excited to share even more of these lovely pamper treats with you! You can find the Arran Aromatics website here, view their scent collections here, and find their 'Velvet Isle Shea Butter Cream' here (it's currently £10.88 - this is usually what I'd spend on a drugstore body butter so bare in mind that Arran Aromatics prices are really amazing for the quality!) I'm so excited to see they do a candle in this fragrance - something I'll probably treat myself to at some stage in the next few months.  It's worth mentioning that you can also find a selection of their products on both the House of Fraser website and also on All Beauty - where I picked up a replacement bottle of their lovely Lavender and Tea Tree facial gel wash for just £5.95!

Have you tried Arran Aromatics? What are your thoughts on the brand?

The Best of 2013 | Skin, Hair & Body Care

 

Rightyho.  After having a little mini-break from blogging for the past 4 days (yet again, blame the uni coursework!), I'm back with another instalment of my 'Best of 2013' series.  This time around, I'm focusing on an array of hair, skin and body products which I've been loving the past 12 months. If you still haven't read my 'Best of 2013 Makeup' post, you can find that here.  I could have easily added to this post - after all, combining skin, hair and body into one post consisting of just 13 products is pretty tough going (at least, it is for me!) but in order to avoid a post as long as my arm, I thought I'd restrain myself and stick to the whole '13' rule! One has to be consistent after all! Without further jibber-jabbering - I shall kick off the second instalment of the 'Best of 2013' series...

1. The Facewash | Arran Aromatics - Lavender Tea Tree Reviving Toning Facial Gel Wash

(oo what a mouthful!?) I know what you're thinking - 'you're kicking off a Best of 2013 post with a bloomin' FACE WASH?!'. Well, yes - I am indeed.  I don't often get excited about cleansers and facial washes - I never see a dramatic enough difference for me to get overly chipper about a certain brand if I'm honest - but 2013 has become the year that I discovered Arran Aromatics. I received this earlier in the year in one of my Love Me Beauty boxes, and I've been addicted ever since.  It's lasted me a good while as I find I only need a little blob, but I'm just about to order myself another - definitely a sign of a good discovery! I've written about this little skincare gem here and in a monthly favourites post here if you fancy a read up! I have sensitive skin which breaks out if I use anything overly fragranced or heavy - so this little gel wash is perfect for me as it's really gentle.  It has the most beautiful scent and I find it really relaxes me before I go to bed of an evening (I've mentioned before that it reminds me somewhat of these spa-products you find in posh hotels!) - and my skin is always left feeling smooth, soft and completely clean afterwards. The texture is unlike any other facial wash I've used  and I find it really soothing to massage into the skin. It also contains small exfoliating beads which help to remove any dull, dead skin and keep your complexion looking fresh, healthy and blemish free (thank the Tea Tree in it for that!).  I LOVE it. My only bug-bear so far is that it isn't the easiest to get hold of - but well worth having a search around for! It retails for £12.95 - which in my opinion, isn't half bad for a luxurious little face wash that does wonders for the skin.

2. The Face Mask | Organic Surge First Class Mask

Again, I was sent this little beauty for review purposes but it is without a doubt a product I will be purchasing again in future.  Organic Surge as a brand have fast become a favourite of mine this year - and I use a select few of their products on a daily basis now.  This face mask really did impress me.  It's really gentle - so you can use it more than once a week, and the fact that it doesn't create a lot of mess is a massive plus point for me.  I find it so simple to use and I reach for it one heck of a lot when my skin is feeling dry, congested or just in general need of a spruce up! I have a full review of it here if you fancy reading more! It retails for £8.49 which is a fabulous price for a face mask bottle which will last you absolutely ages! 

3. The Blemish Treatment | Harley Street Skincare Spot Buster

If I didn't include this in my 2013 favourites post then it would be a complete travesty - a TRAVESTY I tells ya! I was sent this to review waaay back in July (you can read my thoughts and review here) and since, I have repurchased another 2 times. Its always a good sign when a blogger repurchases a PR sent product and I can honestly say I will be buying this little bottle again and again and again. It's an amazing spot treatment that you can use day or night - even under makeup as it doesn't leave any crusty residue (there's no way of saying that without it sounding a bit disgusting...sorry).  I'm lucky that I actually do have pretty clear skin the majority of the time - I don't suffer with acne but now and again, I do get the odd breakout! I suffered over the summer with a tonne of breakouts when I came off a certain contraceptive pill - and i kid you not - this little gem saved my life! I can't sing it's praises enough - it heals breakouts quick, prevents more from forming and really does work. It's a little pricey at £25 (it used to be £20) - but even the extra fiver doesn't put me off.  If you're at your wits end with spot treatments - it's worth making an order on one of these (you can find them here). Harley Street are amazing with their deliveries too - you do pay a fee but it arrives within 1-2 days without fail and I cannot wait to try more of their 'Spot Less' range.

4. The Moisturiser | Superdrug Tea Tree

Well, I could have lied and made it sound like I use a posh, expensive moisturiser on a daily basis but sometimes - you don't always get what you pay for and there are plenty of drugstore cheapies that do the job just as well! Don't underestimate budget friendly skincare! I've been using this moisturiser all year round without fail. Don't get me wrong, it's not the only one I use - and I alternate between Nivea, Organic Surge and Balance Me depending on the time of year, but one I always go back to is Superdrug's Tea Tree! It's like my little skincare secret.  It's a really good little all-round moisturiser - I used it on holiday to soothe my skin when I'd accidentally sat on the sunbed for one too many hours, I used it when my skin had a bit of a 'tantrum' earlier in the year and I still use it now as part of my daily regime.  It seems to really help keep my skin clear, soothes any redness and isn't greasy in the slightest. Obviously, if you're not a fan of Tea Tree I wouldn't recommend this - but it isn't overly strong at all and is the perfect little skin soother - and the best bit? It only costs a couple of quid!

5. The Shampoo | John Frieda Frizz Ease Hydrating Shampoo

I love John Frieda.  I use their products year in, year out and I always have a bottle somewhere on my shower shelf! My hair drawer is full of back-ups! They just seem to really work for my hair and I'm a massive fan of both the 'Volume' range and the 'Blonde' range.  This year, I discovered the Smooth Start Hydrating Shampoo.  I'd used the Conditioner before but after my hair started to feel a little dry half-way through this year, I thought I'd better give the shampoo a whirl.  It completely revives my hair when it's feeling dull, lack-lustre and straw-like and transforms it into swishy, Rapunzel-like locks in just one wash.  

6. The Conditioner | Neal & Wolf Intensive Care Treatment

Ok - so firstly, I do have to give a little mention to my other 2013 favourite - Loreal's Ever Riche Nourishing Conditioner - but since I didn't have a bottle handy, I thought I'd use my equal top-spot favourite - Neal & Wolf's Intensive Care.  I received this in my Love Me Beauty box way back in the summer, and instantly fell in love with it. Full on-head-over-heels in love!  So much so, I have since ordered another bottle (along with their heat protection spray which has fast become another favourite!) What makes Neal & Wolf for me is the scent.  It's not to everybody's taste and I know a few bloggers that have mentioned their dislike for it - but I personally find it really lovely.  Once I've used this, my hair smells like a salon for hours afterwards and often into the next day.  I find it really softening on the hair and think it works really well at putting some much needed moisture back into my ends! I featured it in my monthly favourites here a while back if you fancy a more in-depth read!

7. The Oil | Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essence Absolue

Easily my BEST hair care find of 2013. I've tried my fair share of oils, that's for sure.  And although there's a select few on the market that I love, this one seems to top the mark for me.  Just 1-2 pumps massaged through the ends of damp hair before blow-drying and my hair is transformed into silky soft, easily manageable locks!  I can easily apply more without it weighing my hair down or looking greasy, and it really does moisturise the hair.  I also use this when my hair is already dry and styled to help combat any frizz or dry-looking bits, and it instantly revives my style without adding grease or heaviness.  It also smells amazing! I could go on all day about my love for this bottle, but in case you fancy reading up more on it - I have a full review of it here.

8. The Body Butter | Soap & Glory Righteous Butter

What's a favourites post without a bit of Soap & Glory in there?! I've been loving their Righteous Butter this year and have been using it all year round when I get out of the bath to help keep my skin feeling silky smooth and soft. As well as the big tubs of the stuff, I also purchase the mini versions (seen in the photograph above) to keep in my handbag as I actually use it as a hand cream throughout the day - I also take the mini versions on holiday with me because I can't bare to be without it. People at uni are always asking me what I smell of - and to be honest, if it isn't my perfume - it's probably this! It's easily my most favourite Soap & Glory scent ever - I often find myself just opening the tub a little purely so I can grab a whiff (...strange much?) My love for this product will without a doubt continue well into 2014 and if you're in the market for a really moisturising body butter for dry skin - I recommend this Soap & Glory blogger fave! I have an ancient review here.

9. The Perfume | Hugo Boss 'Jour'

Me and Hugo Boss fragrance get on like a house on fire. Seriously - I always seem to adore their scents! My signature scent has to be their 'Orange' perfume - but this year, I discovered a new favourite - 'Jour'.  I'm not the best at describing scents but if you like that whole fresh, clean and classy sort of scent - I'd give this a spray next time you're walking past a tester! It's stunning!  It just smells of sophistication and luxury and I'm so glad to have it sitting in my perfume drawer.  I have a more descriptive, 'adjective-overload' sort of review here.

10. The Bath-Time Treat | Elemis Spa Home Quiet Mind Relaxing Bath Elixir

This is easily one of my best finds of 2013.  Ever since I started going for massages at a local spa/salon, I've really gotten into luxury spa products and oils.  This bath elixir by Elemis is the most relaxing scent that's ever passed my nostrils and if ever I've had a stressful day, I pop some of this into a running hot bath and I'm sorted.  It lingers on the skin afterwards and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and pampered.  I have a full review of it in my 'Top 5 Relaxation Products' post which you can find here.

11. The Hand Product | Soap & Glory Hand Maid

I'm known to carry a bottle of this stuff everywhere with me.  I used to work with children and found I picked up ridiculous amounts of colds and coughs so it's been part of my daily routine for a good few years now - it's actually ingrained into my routine!  I used to have one in every locker, cupboard and bag - no word of a lie. Soap & Glory's Hand Maid is by far my favourite hand sanitiser.  I find that a lot of sanitisers have that 'medical chemically alcohol-y' sort of scent that totally overpowers any perfume you have on, but this one is lovely and sweet and gentle.  If you like Soap & Glory scents - I'd recommend this little bottle.  It lasts ages, costs around £2.50 and works a treat.  No more coughs and splutters and your hands smell yummy at the same time! Perfect.

12. The Nail Polish | Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Polish

My nails aren't in tip top condition at the moment as I've started nibbling them through stress at uni (New Years Resolution is to get my killer talons back!) - but throughout summer, these polishes really were the Bee's Knees and I think the entire collection sums up my nail polish preferences of 2013.  Barry M don't half know how to make a smashing nail polish! Their Gelly Hi-Shines are amazing to apply, give a super-shiny salon perfected finish and come in an array of beautiful shades.  I did a post on my entire collection of them in the summer, so if you're interested in having a nosey and a further read-up on them, you can find it here.

13. The Lip Balm | Maybelline Baby Lips in 'Peach Kiss' & Carmex Moisture Plus in 'Pink'

Ok ok ok. So I cheated *slap wrist* - just think of the extra product a fruity little bonus? I've been loving 2 lip balms this year for different reasons. The first is the ever-famous Maybelline Baby Lips which finally hit the UK this year - causing a complete frenzy amongst us British Bloggers. They became a 'hit and miss' product for most but I'm personally in the love it camp.  Not necessarily for the moisturising properties - because truth be told, there are much better balms on the market - but more for the sheer wash of colour complete with ease of use and snazzy packaging. 'Peach Kiss' is perfect for throwing in my bag at uni as it provides a very faint wash of colour which smooths out my lips and it adds a little bit of gloss and moisture.  Perfect for everyday.  I have a full review here.  Carmex Moisture Plus is my go-to winter treat and I have a lot to owe to this little beauty.  I actually have a post coming up on my blog about it as it's been a favourite of mine since summer now, but it provides amazing moisture. When it comes to lip balms, I think Carmex has to be 'up there' with the best, doesn't it? If your lips are in need of some thirst quenching, then Carmex comes to the rescue! I personally love the 'Pink' sheer tint version (it also comes in other shades as well as a clear version) - it looks like I've applied a lip gloss or lipstick and provides instant relief from dry, thirst-deprived lips. The shade also looks beautiful against my winter skin - it instantly seems to brighten my complexion.  Look out for my full review post coming soon!

So there we have it - my top 13 skin, hair and body care products of 2013! I think it just goes to show how highly I rate these products as almost every single one of them has it's own post or review - a great number of them also have appeared in my monthly favourites throughout the course of the year.  If you missed my 'Best of 2013 Makeup' post, then you can find it here. I do hope you've enjoyed having a read up on my ultimate favourites and have atleast found yourself one product to try for 2014! 

What were your top skin/hair/body products of 2013? Do we share any of the same favourites?