Be good to your skin with Astral!

Hello everyone, I hope you are well!

Today I'm going to be sharing a review of 2 moisturisers that I have been loving over the past month.

The moisturisers are by Astral, a brand which I know is quite popular among people with mature skin (like my Grandma) however I think these moisturisers are brilliant and it's never too early (or late) to start looking after your skin!

Here are the moisturisers I am going to be reviewing:-  

Astral Original Moisturising Cream 200ml* - £4.48 (more info) 

This original formula is a rich hydrating moisturiser that is mainly aimed at protecting mature skin, it is suitable for use all over which means it can be used on your hands, body and face. I do have to mention here that I don't use multi-purpose moisturisers on my face as my skin is oily and sometimes sensitive but if you have very dry skin, this product can be used as a makeup remover too! I find this product is perfect for the extremely dry parts of my body such as my legs, feet and elbows.

I really love how my skin feels after using this moisturiser it is just beautiful, it absorbs instantly into my skin and isn't in the slightest bit greasy or oily, which has been a problem for me in the past with other intensely hydrating moisturisers. You don't have spend too much time standing (in my case dancing) around in the nude waiting for it to dry.

This product has quite a 'soapy' scent to it, which some of you might not be keen on but personally I don't think it's too bad although I do usually prefer a more subtle scent.

Pros

• Creamy
• Hydrating
• Absorbs quickly
• Good value for money

Cons

• Could be slightly heavy for oily skin types 
• Slightly 'soapy' fragrance

Astral Light & Creamy Moisturiser 200ml* - £4.28 (more info)

(Pictures taken with Nikon D3100)

Astral say this formula helps to prevent skin aging however I do think it greatly benefits younger skin similar to mine and those of us who are not yet too worried about wrinkles and skin aging. This formula is much lighter than the original and it is enriched with the benefits of Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. 

Vitamin E: helps reduce the appearance of age spots, fade scars and stretch marks, and helps maintain skin’s natural moisture levels.

Aloe Vera: renowned for its intensely soothing and moisturising properties and perfect for sensitive skin, it also helps improve skin tone and has the unique ability to stimulate cell renewal.

I feel this formula works like a dream on my face, as it is a much lighter moisturiser and works better with my oily skin. Very similar to the original formula, this can be used anywhere on the body and face.

I have used this cream to remove my foundation and it works very well! I have avoided using this around my eye area though as I am very fussy about what creams a lotions I use on my eyes. The moisturiser is hydrating and soothing on the skin and I feel that it leaves a gorgeous glow to my skin. It is definitely one of those products that I get excited about using when I've showered, to me it feels like a luxurious product without the expensive price tag!

Pros

• No residue
• Absorbs quickly
• Light texture
• Light, fresh fragrance 
• Contains Aloe Vera and Vitamin E

Cons 

• I honestly can't think of any for this product!

Overall I really love these moisturisers but if I had to pick a favourite it would definitely be the Light & Creamy formula! I would highly recommend this moisturiser to anyone who is wanting to try something different. I was slightly sceptical about this product at first as I initially associated it with my Grandma but I have to say, she's got great taste!

These moisturisers are available in Boots and Superdrug as well as UK supermarkets and chemists.

Have you ever tried Astral or anything similar? Let me know!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Bloglovin' / Pinterest

Follow me on Instagram @prettylittlelives

*Disclaimer PR sample - My opinions are still 100% honest

CreaClip - Review

Hello everyone, I hope you are well!

Today I am going to be reviewing a hair product called the CreaClip.

The CreaClip is a tool you can use that helps to make cutting your hair at home a lot easier! You can use it to keep on top of your current hair styles between salon visits, or if you are like me and you prefer cutting your own hair regularly rather than spending a lot of money at a salon. I prefer styling my own hair and have been doing it myself for a long time now.
 

I was so happy when I came across this product as it has made cutting my hair so much easier than my usual routine.

CreaClip set* - £19.99

What they say:-  

Cut your own hair at home with professional results. For easy and precise cuts everytime! Great for cutting children's hair, trimming bangs, creating layers, or just maintaining a hairstyle between cuts-anytime, any place!

   

In the Creaclip set you get:-

• One small CreaClip - For short hair and fringes/bangs
• One Large Curved CreaClip- For long hair and layers

The CreaClip set contains 2 products that help you to cut length off your hair, trim your fringe or add layers.

Each clip comes in two sizes, they both have a rotating level which means you can cut your hair straight so you aren't left with uneven styles.  You can lock the clip into place which helps to secure your hair without the hassle of the clip moving around.

(pictures taken with Canon A3300is)

General instructions for using the clip:-

1. Use on clean, dry hair.
2. Use mirror when trimming your own hair.
3. Comb out all knots and tangles.
4. Use sharp haircutting scissors.
5. Sit or stand straight.
6. Make sure the level is balanced by checking to see if the bubble is between the two lines. 

Instructions for cutting hair (one length)

1.  Tilt chin forward to chest and clip the long curved CreaClip as close as possible to the hair roots.
2. Adjust the clip until leveled (use a mirror for this step) and slide clip down to desired length you want to cut.
3. Bring the hair forward and trim along the bottom of the clip using horizontal or vertical cuts.

*For thick hair you will need to section your hair. I usually split my hair into three sections.

Also if your hair is curly, cut off less! You need to remember that curly hair springs back and will look much shorter than it would on straight hair.*

I did find it a little difficult to cut my hair own my own at first but there are many step by step videos on the CreaClip website and YouTube that will help to show you how to do it and once you get the hang of it, it is very simple!

Pros

• Lock to secure product whilst cutting your hair
• Rotating level for precise cuts
• Teeth to help comb out hair and distribute evenly 
• Easy to use
• Saves money

Cons

• Only available online

Overall this product is brilliant!  I have used it a few times already and I love it! 

If you want to try out the CreaClip and you live in the UK or Europe then you can visit the CreaClip website, they have a warehouse in the UK for fast shipping and no customs charges all over Europe.

What do you think about this product? Have you used anything similar? Let me know!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Bloglovin'

Follow in Instagram @prettylittlelives 

*Disclaimer PR sample - My opinions are still 100% honest

INIKA - Review

Hello everyone, I hope you are well.

I have now finished all my assessments at university and have come home for Christmas! It has been a while since I last posted as I had so much work to get through.

Today I am going to be reviewing three INIKA Mineral eyeshadows and a skin illuminisor.

Mineral Illuminisor* (3g) £17

(Close-up of illuminisor powder on the skin)

I wasn't overly impressed with the illuminisor, I didn't find it gave my skin a natural glow as I felt it looked far too glittery on my face. I prefer products that are more shimmery than glittery, I did find that the illuminisor worked really well as a highlighter on my brow bones.

Directions

• Apply to the highlight areas of the cheeks, brow bone and temples.
• Dust over cheekbones and decolletage to enhance complexion and create an all-over healthy glow.
• Mix Illuminisor with moisturiser for glowing legs and arms.

Summary

Pros:

• Non-comedogenic
• Lovely packaging

Cons:

• Too glittery
• Pricey

 Mineral Eye Shadow* (1.2g) £14.50 each

 (Left to right: Coco Motion, Gold Dust, Gunmetal)

I was extremely impressed with these eyeshadows, I have enjoyed experimenting with them and have come up with some really lovely makeup looks.  The colours are highly pigmented, they are easy to apply and they blend beautifully!

Here are the 3 colours I tried out:
Coco Motion -  a divinely earthy matte brown.  Perfect for creating depth and definition. 
Gold Dust - a pale, shimmery gold. Great as a highlighter or blended with other colours. 
Gunmetal - a metallic silver (with a hint of purple) which looks like mercury when applied wet or over black eyeliner.

Directions

• Pick up a little powder, press the product into the brush, tap off the excess and apply as desired.
• Create amazing metallic or iridescent looks by layering one colour on top of another.
• Add water for use as a liquid eyeliner.

Summary

Pros:

• Highly pigmented
• Can be used wet or dry to add different textures
• Multi-purpose can be used as eyeliner as well as eyeshadow
• Blend well
• Natural ingredients - suitable for people with sensitive eyes
• Lasts a long time 
• Lovely packaging

 Cons: 

• Slightly pricey

Overall I've had a good experience with the products, I think the eye shadows are fantastic and I will definitely be purchasing more of them in the future! I like that all the INIKA mineral products are non-comedogenic, this means they don't clog your pores or cause breakouts! 
These products are slightly pricey but for the quality of the product, I think it is worth it. They are in a similar price range to MAC eye shadows and think they are just as good, they will last me a while too as a little bit goes a long way!

Have you tried any of the INIKA cosmetics?

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

*Disclaimer PR sample - My opinions are still 100% honest

Dove Overnight Intensive Repair Creme - Review

Hello everyone, I hope you are well!

Today I want to share my love of Dove's Overnight Intensive Repair Creme. I have been using this for quite a while now and feel it is time to rave about this product! I featured it in my July Favourites and today I want to tell you why I like it so much! I purchased this for £4.99, it is now on offer in Superdrug (take a look here).

I bought this product after my holiday, the chlorine from the pool and being in the sun for prolonged periods of time had taken its toll on my hair and I was in desperate need of an intensive hair treatment!

Dove Overnight Intensive Repair Creme 120ml (more info)

This product is so easy to use, it glides onto my hair really well! I like the fact that I don't need to use too much of the product even though my hair is thick and curly!

After one use the texture of my hair felt so much smoother and less dry, I have to say I don't think it's a miracle worker on it's own! I cut my hair to get rid of split ends and to help improve the appearance of my hair as well as using repairing shampoo and conditioners such as the split end remedy from Herbal Essences. All of these things in conjunction with one another have helped my hair dramatically over a matter of weeks!

Packaging

This product has a pump application which helps to disperse an even amount of the cream, which allows you to control how much you use so you're not wasting any product by over-using.

Directions

 (Taken with Fujifilm HS10)

The directions say to apply 2-4 pumps of the product onto damp hair, I actually apply a little bit more than that as my hair is quite long and thick! I usually use about 6 pumps instead! Depending on your hair type you might use less, it's down to personal preference and what is right for your hair type.

I apply this product to my ends and mid sections of clean towel dried hair, I have to say I concentrate more on the ends of my hair as I feel that is where most of the damage occurs. I leave it on overnight and when I wake up my hair is glossy and soft!

You can wash it of the the next morning or style as usual. I usually use the product on freshly washed hair so instead of washing it off the next day I just apply curling serum and style my hair as normal. As my hair is curly I think I can get away with not washing the product out, my hair appears to have absorbed everything by the next morning. 

You don't have to worry about your pillowcases getting ruined when leaving this product on as it doesn't stain! 

I use this product twice a week as I feel that is what works best for my hair.

Pros

• Non-greasy
• Cheap
• Smells great
• Easy application
• Doesn't stain your pillow

Cons

• None that I can think of!

Have you tried this repair creme or anything similar? Let me know!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

OXY Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash - Review

Hello everyone,

Today I am going to be sharing my views on the OXY Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash. 

I have been using it for most of this month and have to say I have instantly taken a liking to it!

The OXY skin care range is available from stores such as Boots and Tesco and costs £5.99.

OXY Seaweed Power Fresh Skin Wash (more info)

(Taken with iPhone 4s)

'OXY has been a trusted and effective brand in the fight against blackheads, spots and oily skin for over 20 years.'

'Spot prone skin needs a powerful yet gentle approach. That's why the dermatoligists at OXY have undertaken ground breaking research into the power of nature.'

What I like about this product the most is that it contains jojoba micro beads that work deep into the skin to help fight spot-causing bacteria and reduce redness. This product dissolves oil which I find helps to keep shine under control. For me is what I look for when purchasing a new face product as I have quite oily skin. I love how clean my skin feels after using this product and the micro beads feel like they are really working to get rid of any dead skin cells on my face, leaving it feeling extremely clean! This product has a similar texture to an exfoliator and gives a powerful deep cleanse without being too harsh on your skin.

This product is gentle enough to be used everyday, even for people who have sensitive skin.

After using this product I have noticed that my skin has become a lot clearer and looks brighter too!

The OXY face wash is said to work best alongside the OXY Deep Calm Balm moisturiser. 

I have been using it with my Liz Earle light moisturiser and I think this combination works well. I think any oil-free moisturiser would be suitable to use with this product however I am going to try out the calm balm to see if that makes any more of a difference in how clear my skin looks. 

Pros

• Clean, fresh smell
• No alcohol
• No parabens
• No SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate)
• Contains provitamin B5
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Reduces redness
• Controls shine
• Can be used everyday

Cons

• I haven't had any bad experiences with this product as of yet and at this moment in time, I can't think of anything negative to say.

Have you tried this product before? Let me know what your experience was like whether it was good or bad!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Make Believe Self Tan Mousse - Review

Hello everyone!

Today I'm going to be sharing my views on the Make Believe Tanning Mousse 200ml*

The Make Believe self tanners work with all skin types and tones, they are split into 5 zones. So depending on how how dark you want your tan to be you can pick between a more natural subtle glow or a deep bronzed look. I think this is a brilliant idea as it make it easier for you to identify which category you fit into best and gives you some indication of how dark you should expect your tan to be.

I received mine in Zone 3 - Medium tan, which for me is a perfect colour match and doesn't make me look too dark!

Colour Zone Guide

Zone 1 Provides a subtle glow. A tonal lift to your natural skin tone.

Zone 2 For a warm glowing look. Gives you that weekend-in-the-sun radiance.

Zone 3 For a medium tanned look. That classic summer holiday tan.

Zone 4 Provides a golden tanned look. Delivers a deep and luscious skin tone.

Zone 5 That very dark tanned look. Delivers a deep and luscious skin tone.

The product

For me this product was very easy to apply and took around 4 hours for the colour to develop however I decided to leave the product on overnight and the colour had deepened more by the time I woke up which I was very happy with! AND no stains on my sheets which again is a huge bonus! 

The product is described as super-light and non-sticky as well as having a lasting exotic fragrance in which I have to disagree! Personally, I found the mousse was quite sticky and it took a while to dry after application. I didn't mind waiting too much though!
I am not overly keen on the scent of the product and within an hour or so after applying the mousse, that classic 'self-tan' smell started to appear. Though I have to say it definitely isn't as strong smelling as some other self-tanning products out there! I would also like to mention that when I showered the next morning the 'biscuity smell' had completely disappeared so don't be put off from trying out this product!

Despite the negative points, the product itself does have many plus points! You really don't need to use a whole lot of product, a little goes a very long way! I like the pump applicator as it is easy to get an even looking tan as you can disperse even amounts of product on each part of your body. For example 2 pumps for your lower left arm and 2 pumps for your lower right arm and so on!

The colour pay off is also fantastic, it is extremely natural looking and doesn't leave you looking orange!

I like that the colour develops quickly, it takes between 2-4 hours for the colour to become noticeable.

The tanner is free from parabens, contains fruit extracts and has has a 'Lipo Care Complex' containing;

1. Caffeine - helps to stimulate cellulite breakdown.
2. Co-enzyme A - helps to reduce fatty acids.
3. Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract - helps to tighten the skin with firming and toning benefits.

Directions:

Dispense a palm-sized amount of mousse into your hand and smooth onto clean dry skin. Blend carefully over dryer areas of the body. Can be used for both the face and body and will wear off naturally in a week.

Wash hands after application.

- The directions state to use your hand to apply the product but I always think it's better to use a tanning mitt as it gives easier application and helps to spread the product more evenly than if you used your hands and I don't know about you but I would rather steer clear of patchy hands!

 (Taken with Nikon D3100) more info

 

Summary

Pros: 

• Paraben free
• Moisturising blend of rainforest oils
• Contain anti-oxidants & fruit extracts
• Lovely packaging, easy pump application
• A little goes a long way
• Natural colour
• Develops quickly
• Doesn't stain bed sheets etc
• The fake tan smell disappears after you wash it off the next day 

Cons:

• Doesn't smell great and classic 'fake tan' smell starts to seep through as product is developing
  
• Quite sticky
• Takes a good few minutes to dry
  
• No colour guard
• Pricey! Retails at £29.50

Overall my experience with the product was great! I would definitely say it is better than many self-tanning products that I have tried. 

There are a few things that I would change about this product, the smell and the drying time and I also prefer self tanning products to have a colour guard, just because I find it easier to see where the product has been applied. I do think it all comes down to personal preference though, what some people like about this product others might dislike and vice versa!

For me this product is slightly on the pricey side but if you are wanting to treat yourself to a natural looking sun-kissed glow it is definitely worth a try, you won't be disappointed!

*Disclaimer PR sample - My opinions are still 100% honest

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Good Things Miracle Mattifier Moisturiser - Review

Hello everyone!

Today I'm going to be reviewing the Good Things Miracle Mattifier Moisturiser 100ml*.

I have heard many mixed views about this product but in my opinion I honestly don't have a bad word to say about it!

It retails at £7.99 which I think is a reasonable price for the quality that you are getting and it is very easily accessible too! It can be purchased from Boots, Superdrug and supermarkets such as Sainsbury's and Tesco.

As well as being a moisturiser this product can also be used as a makeup primer too which I like. As I have quite oily skin I don't like to use too many products on my face before applying my foundation as I feel like too many products clog up my pores! 
This is a quick and easy step which leaves my face moisturised giving me a perfect base for my foundation. It feels light on my skin and doesn't leave a greasy residue. It also smells gorgeous! 

(Taken with Canon A3300is)

Beauty Boosting Superfruit Ingredients:

• Blackcurrant - This is a great source of vitamin C and is known for its anti-inflammatory qualities.
• Goji Berry - This too has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to keep skin energised.

Free from:

• Parabens
• Mineral oils, 
• Sodium Laureth Sulphate
• Animal ingredients

 Meaning it's vegan and vegetarian friendly too!

*Disclaimer PR samples - My opinions are still 100% honest.

Have you tried any of the Good Things range?

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser - Review

Hello everyone, I hope you have all been enjoying the glorious weather as much as I have! (You can probably tell I have spent most of my time in the sun due to my lack of posts lately!)

Today I'm going to share my experience of the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser* Liz Earle kindly sent me this product to review and I was so excited when I got it as I have read so many good reviews about it on other beauty blogs and now I am going to share my opinion with you!

I received a 100ml pump starter kit which comes with 2 muslin cloths and retails at £14.25, for me this is slightly on the pricey side but I feel the quality of the cleanser makes up for the price!
If you go to the Liz Earle website you will find a variety of different cleanser sizes, I think this is a great idea as it suits the needs of everyone.

I use the cleanser in the morning to freshen up my face and help get rid of dry patches around my nose.

At night I use the cleanser to take off my make-up. This cleanser even removes waterproof mascara! I love how this cleanser acts as a 2 in 1 make-up remover and cleanser, it is very handy to remove your make-up and cleanse your face in one go! The cleanser is also very light and doesn't irritate my eyes when taking off my mascara - HUGE BONUS!

Directions:-

Step 1: Massage one or two pumps onto dry skin and over face and neck twice a day.

Step 2: Rinse the pure muslin cloth in hand-hot water and wring out before gently wiping off the cream. Rinse and repeat. Then splash face with cool water.

The muslin cloth is now a very important part of my skin care routine. It is used to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, which I love as it isn't harsh on my skin unlike other exfoliators I have used in the past! After just a few uses I noticed my skin appeared to look more radiant! 

Washing your Muslin cloths:-

Muslin Cloths can be washed normally with your white wash or boiled in plain water.

This product smells divine and contains many natural ingredients that are suitable for all skin types:-

• Beexwax - relieves chapped skin
• Cocoa Butter - moisturising
• Rosemary Essential Oil - invigorating, stimulating and antioxidant properties
• Chamomile Essential Oil - soothes skin
• Eucalyptus Essential Oil - decongestant properties

(Pictures taken with Canon A3300is)

The packaging of the product is gorgeous too, I just love the whole style and look of it!

Overall this is such a great product and I am extremely happy with the outcome!

Feel free to share your experiences below!

*Disclaimer PR samples - My opinions are still 100% honest.

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Garnier Body Tonic Firming Lotion - Review

Hello everyone, I hope you are well.

Since I'm going on holiday in June I want to make sure I'm looking my best! As well as trying to eat healthy and exercise as much as I can, I also want to make sure my skin is looking good too!

So I decided to buy the Garnier Body Tonic Firming Lotion on offer in Superdrug for £3.10 (was £6.21).

I have seen many good reviews about this product so thought I would give it a go whilst it is on offer.

After using this product for about three weeks now I have to say I have definitely seen an improvement in the firmness and softness of my skin. The lotion contains phyto-caffeine which is known to help with stimulation, it is hydrating so it moisturises as it firms - which is an added bonus! 

On the back of the bottle it says 'skin feels instantly toned' and I agree! Immediately after application my skin felt 'lifted' and tighter (not unpleasantly tight!)

The lotion smells like citrus fruits which smells amazing and very fresh. I prefer to use it in the morning after I've showered to give me that 'energised' feeling to help kick start my day!

(Pictures taken with iPhone 4s)

The texture of the product is a gel-cream, it is absorbed easily into the skin and doesn't take long to dry. 

Summary 

Pros

• fast drying
• smooths out skin
• hydrates and moisturises 
• inexpensive

Cons

• the smell of the product might not be to everyone's taste

I think this product is perfect to help you get that 'beach body' you want for summer!

Have you tried this firming lotion or any others? Let me know your thoughts below!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Revlon Nail Polish Review

Hello everyone, 

Today I'm going to be sharing two Revlon nail polishes that I have been wearing a lot lately.

  (Pictures taken with iPhone 4s)

These Revlon Nail Enamel polishes are gorgeous! I love the collection they have and the variety of colours are awesome!

I find the Revlon nail polishes last quite a long time without chipping, which for me is great as there's nothing I disike more than chipped nail polish!

For me Charming is THE perfect pastel lilac colour and Fuchsia Fever is so vibrant and fun!

I have been wearing these colours none stop lately and look forward to wearing both of them during summer!

I bought these polishes from Superdrug, they cost £6.49 each.

What colours have you tried? Let me know below!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton

Flawless Finish: Cosmopolitan Perfection Blender

Hello everyone, 

I have found the perfect dupe for the beauty blender and I am going to share it with you today.

The Cosmopolitan Perfection Blender is a great dupe for the Beauty Blender and has been talked about on Youtube and blogging sites for a while now so I thought I would find out what the hype was about and honestly after using this I totally understand why it is talked about so much! This foundation sponge gives a great even coverage and flawless finish to your make-up, it is  inexpensive and can be purchased at Superdrug for £4.95. (a lot cheaper than the Beauty Blender!).

The Perfection Blender is easy to keep clean, I wash mine with tea tree facial wash from The Body Shop after every makeup application to help maintain the original condition of the sponge - I like to keep it looking as new as possible. Tea tree is know to have antibacterial properties so to me this seems like the appropriate product to use, obviously you can use brush cleaners etc if you have them.

 (Pictures taken with iPhone 4s)

The sponge is easy to hold and is quite dense which helps to give a quick even coverage.

I use the top of the sponge to even out my concealer and foundation in the smaller areas of my face such as around my eye and nose area (the hard to reach places).

The bottom part of the sponge is perfect for blending your foundation evenly across bigger areas of your face as the base of the sponge has more surface area than the top and makes it much easier to apply.

Directions:

- Wet sponge and squeeze out excess water

- Use a bouncing or 'stippling' method to apply your foundation and concealer to give your make-up an airbrushed finish 

This sponge covers up all my imperfections extremely well and gives my face an airbrushed finish! I recommend this product to everyone!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Hellocotton