KIKO 24h Cream

Hello everyone, I hope you are all well!

It has been a while, but I am back! This year has just been complete madness, I have now finished university and will be graduating next week with a 2:1! I decided that I needed to put my blog on hold for a little bit to allow myself time to focus on getting my work done which has definitely paid off, I am so pleased with my final grade. I want to thank you for your patience whilst I've been away and what better way to kick-start my blog again than with a review of my current favourite moisturiser...

I was initially given this moisturiser as a sample and fell it love with it straight away! I loved it so much I decided to go out and buy it and I have been using it ever since. KIKO 24h Cream makes my face feel super smooth and the best thing about it... it doesn't break me out!

KIKO 24h Cream 50ml - £11.90 (more info)

If you haven't heard of this brand before or want to know more about it then head over to their website: kikocosmetics.co.uk.

"KIKO MILANO is a leading Italian brand of cosmetics, make-up and skin care products. KIKO MILANO offers safe and effective beauty products as well as face and body treatments of the highest quality, created to satisfy women of all ages."

This product by KIKO is a moisturising and energising cream that is recommended for normal to dry skin, however, you are all aware that I have combination to oily skin and this product works amazingly well for me. I use this as my night-time moisturiser rather than during the day, I prefer to wear something lighter and more mattifying during the day. I use this before bed after I've cleansed my face and I allow it time to soak in - if I was to use this product as my day moisturiser then I would look super shiny by lunch time! For those of you who have dryer skin though, this product could work brilliantly as both a day and night-time moisturiser.

Directions

I use this product after cleansing in the evening and apply it to my face, neck and neck line.


Summary

(Pictures taken with Nikon D3100)

I have noticed such a big improvement in the texture and look of my skin. My makeup seems to glide on much more smoothly than it did before.

Pros

• Smells lovely
• Feels nice on the skin
• Very moisturising
• Contains SPF15
• Hypoallergenic (formulated to ensure minimum instance of allergic reactions)
• Non comedogenic (doesn't clog pores)
• Paraben free
• Simple, clean-looking packaging

Cons

• Might be slightly too heavy for oilier complexions (Personally I like the consistency of this moisturiser because it's exactly what I look for in a night cream)

If you haven't tried any products by KIKO yet, then I suggest you do! I have a feeling this won't be the last post involving this brand!

What is your current favourite moisturiser? Let me know!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Bloglovin'

Follow me on Instagram @prettylittlelives

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

Garnier BB Cream - combination/oily skin

Hello everyone, I hope you are well!

Today I'm going to be sharing a review on the Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector for combination to oily skin.

Garnier BB Cream combination to oily skin (Light) - £9.99 

(I got this on offer for £7.49 from Superdrug however I would happily pay the full amount!)

I was slightly apprehensive about trying this BB cream at first because a while back I ordered a sample of the original Garnier BB cream and didn't have a very good experience with it at all. It didn't agree with my skin whatsoever and the consistency was far too thick and I found it to be quite greasy! 

Luckily this BB cream is nothing like the original which is a pleasant surprise! It has a more watery and runny consistency which in my opinion is much better. It hasn't broken me out! (woohoo) and it also manages to keep shine and oil under control for much longer than my regular foundation I was using previous to this (double woohoo!)

I have COMPLETELY cut out foundation from my make up routine... yes that's right! No more foundation for me and my skin is definitely enjoying the benefits of being 'foundation free'. The texture and appearance of my skin has transformed majorly since using this product. I'm not saying it is 100% spot free and my skin is in now way perfect, but the change is still very noticeable!

Directions

Smooth Miracle Skin Perfector on to clean skin, as you would your normal moisturiser. 
To increase coverage, just add another layer!

• I apply this using my fingers after cleansing my face, I do use this alongside my regular moisturiser as I think it applies much more evenly and it glides onto the skin much better.

Summary 

Pros:

• Oil free
• Non comedogenic
• Keeps shine at bay
• Contains SPF 20
• Light to medium coverage
• Evens skin tone

Cons:

• Limited colour range (only available in light or medium) 
• I think the packaging could be improved slightly as the product tends to leak out into the lid.

Overall I think this product is brilliant and definitely worth a go! I would recommend this product to anyone with combination to oily skin who is wanting to try a BB cream for the first time but is unsure about which one to try.

(Pictures taken with iPhone 4s)

What is your favourite BB cream? Have you tried this one? Let me know!

Natasha Carly x

Pretty Little Lives on Facebook / Twitter / Bloglovin'

Follow on Instagram @prettylittlelives

*Please be aware that any offers or prices mentioned in my posts may have changed by the time you read them.*

Dirty Works Facial Skincare - Review

Hello everyone!

Today I am going to be reviewing two products from the Dirty Works skincare range. I'm going to be sharing my thoughts on the Wake Up Call Face Wash and the Blemish Buster 2 in 1 Scrub + Mask*.
These products are available from Sainsbury's or the Dirty Works website (which is linked above.)

Blemish Buster 2 in 1 Scrub + Mask 125ml* (£4.99) more info

This product reminds me of the Soap & Glory Scrub Your Nose In It Face Scrub and Mask, it's similar in colour and texture.
I have only used this product a handful of times as I don't like to over exfoliate my face and after just one use of this scrub my face felt very clean and smooth! 

I personally prefer to use this as a mask rather than a scrub as I like the cooling sensation it gives when leaving it on, it feels nice and refreshing on the skin. I use it as a mask 2 times a week and have seen a noticeable change in my complexion, my skin looks brighter and my pores are looking more reduced.

This product is designed to get rid of spots and unclog blocked pores and for me I think this product achieves that.

Directions

Scrub -

1. Apply a small amount of product to face. 
2. Massage in circular motions paying close attention to the t-zone area.
3. Rinse with warm water.

Mask -

1. Apply a thin layer over whole face, massage for 30 seconds. 
2. Leave for 5 minutes.
3. Rinse with warm water.

Summary 

Pros -

• Nice gritty consistency that helps to give a deep cleanse, preventing more spots from forming. 
• It has a Kaolin mineral clay base which is known for its excellent absorbent qualities, this helps to draw out impurities and toxins in the skin whilst absorbing excess sebum.
• A little goes a long way.
• Lovely packaging.
• Affordable

Cons -

• The smell of the product doesn't blow me away but it's pleasant and fresh!

Wake Up Call Face Wash 150ml* (£3.99) more info

(Taken with Nikon D3100)

I have been using this product twice a day, once in the morning and once at night for the past month or so.
I have to say it isn't the best face wash I have tried but it still does a good job of removing make-up and leaving my skin feeling clean and fresh.

I think the reason I didn't enjoy using this product so much is down to my skin type rather than the product itself, as I do tend to breakout easily and at times my face can feel tight and irritated by certain products.

Directions

1. Massage on to damp skin.
2. Rinse with warm water

Summary

Pros-

• I like that this product is cheap and easily available, the packaging is similar to that of Soap & Glory which is also a plus point. 
• Contains Cotton Seed Oil which is rich in Vitamin E and Papaya extract which has radiance boosting properties.
• Lovely packaging.
• Affordable.

Cons- 

• The consistency of the product is probably what I like the least about this face wash, it is more of a soapy texture rather than a foam. 
• Similar to the scrub, the smell of the product isn't great compared to other face washes out there but it is still pleasant enough.

* Disclaimer PR samples - 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