REVIEW: Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Hair Food Papaya Range

REVIEW: Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Hair Food Papaya Range

Wednesday, 17 February 2021

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As a wise woman once said: "Hair is everything, Anthony!" It was Fleabag, so she wasn't *that * wise, But our favourite 'free-spirited, sexually liberated millennial' has a point. While hair isn't everything, it's not nothing either. For me it really is the difference between a good day and a bad day, when my hair looks bad, my mood follows. I know that's incredibly shallow but I'm definitely not alone in this.

Gif via

I believe it was the great Lady Gaga - if you don't think Lady Gaga is great then I'm sorry, I can't help you - who sang: "I am my hair!" Now, I'll say it again, hair isn't everything, and it's certainly not an entire identity, but for me it's an important part of who I am. 

My hair is one of my defining features. It's literally in my blog name: Lauren with the Red HAIR. My mass of unruly curls, both its texture - curly - and  colour - red - are markers that identify me. People use it to explain who I am: "Oh yeah Lauren, she has red hair" or "You know Lauren, she's got curly hair." It's my signifier. It's what I'm known for. If I ever pulled an early Guardians of the Galaxy-era Karen Gillan and shaved the lot off - not going to happen, I'd look like Matt Lucas -  people would still use my hair, or lack of, to identify me: "Lauren, the bald girl" or "Lauren, she's got no hair". Isn't it weird? 

I've got sidetracked, but wow! Hair as identity... what a concept! Anyway my point was I'm very particular about the products I use on my hair. 

Enter the Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Hair Food range, Garnier's new-ish hair care range targeting damaged hair. The three-piece collection features a shampoo, conditioner and, it's hero product, a multi-use deep conditioning treatment. I've been using the shampoo and conditioner for a couple of months now, since lockdown 2.0, and the hair mask has been a firm favourite since it was launched in 2019. 

First of all let's address the packaging of the shampoo and conditioner bottles, which are still plastic but are made from 50% recycled materials and are themselves 100% recyclable. While it's not perfect - plastic packaging is terrible for the environment - it's definitely an encouraging step. It's really hard to get a global corporation, such as L'Oreal which owns Garnier, to make changes like this. So the fact that they have is great. Hopefully, it's not just lip service and will inspire more companies to follow suit. 

Now the packaging for the hair mask is a bit of a different story in that it's not made from any recycled plastics and it's not widely recycled, although it is accepted by some council recycling schemes.  Garnier has also partnered with Teracycle to keep more beauty products out of landfill, which again is really encouraging. The packaging itself is a sturdy round pot with a lid, which I think would be easy enough to reuse or upcycle. I'd even argue that due to the packaging this product would be a good candidate for a refill initiative.  

Designed to repair damaged hair, which I definitely have, the Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Hair Food Papaya range boasts vegan formulas that are free from silicones, giving them a more natural feel on the hair. The products are made with 98% naturally-derived ingredients, such as sunflower seed oil, coconut oil and papaya extract. All three are designed to target signs of damage, particularly breakage and split ends, while nourishing and conditioning the hair. 

So lets start with the shampoo, a very good place to start. The Repairing Hair Food Papaya & Coconut Shampoo boasts a lightweight formula that effectively cleanses the hair without being too harsh or stripping. It only mildly foams, which means it's SLS content is on the lower side. This makes it great for colour- or heat-treated hair, which tends to be on the drier side and needs to have moisture put back into it. I've been using it for a couple of months now and have noticed that my hair feels softer and more nourished. 

The Repairing Hair Food Papaya Conditioner also has lightweight formula, with a really thin, almost watery texture that feels quite weird at first. It's actually really clever, although it does take some getting used to, as the light texture means it absorbs into the hair quickly, making washing my hair less of a faff.  It also really packs a punch in the hydration stakes, detangles the hair, which in turn prevents breakage and leaves the hair healthy-looking and moisturised. 

The real star of the show is the 3-in-1 Hair Mask Treatment for Damaged Hair, I've been waxing lyrical about this mask for nearly two years. It is that good! The multi-use treatment can be used as a conditioner, an intense treatment or a leave-in conditioner. Personally, I like to use it as a leave in conditioner as its lightweight formula conditions and tames my mad second day hair without weighing it down or making it look greasy. 

It contains papaya and alma extracts to leave the hair nourished, while also reducing the appearance of split ends. The mask even claims to reduce up to half your split ends after just one use. Although that hasn't been my experience but maybe I just have a lot of split ends.  

It has, however, made a noticeable improvement to the condition of my hair leaving it soft, smooth and strong instead of dry, frazzled and fragile. It also smells incredible AND it's incredibly affordable. I've loved this for two years for a reason guys!

Overall, the whole range is really good, especially at the price point. So if you're a fellow hair abuser and you're looking for something cheap and cheerful to mitigate the damage you could do a lot worse that the Garnier Ultimate Blends Repairing Hair Food Papaya range. 

Lockdown 3.0 Skincare Picks

Lockdown 3.0 Skincare Picks

Wednesday, 10 February 2021

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Here in the UK we are in the midst of our third lockdown. You read that right, THIRD! While lockdown is necessary and vital and really important, it's also fucking hard. It is. The novelty wore off some time ago. Now we're all just collectively finding things to get us through the never ending days. Is it 4pm on Monday 11 January or 5am on Friday 5th February? Who knows? Time is no longer a concept I subscribe to. Nor is non-elasticated waist bands... what even are jeans? So that's where I'm at mentally, slap bang in the middle of an existential crisis. 

My original point - before things got just that bit too dark for comfort, that's Lockdown Lauren for you - was that anything that makes lockdown feel just that bit more bearable has to be a good thing, right? Regardless of what it is. For me it's The Masked Singer, the Cadbury orange bunnies and also my skincare routine.  

In the before times, some 76 years ago, skincare was something I loved and did everyday but only enjoyed sometimes. I'd regret it if I didn't do it but more often than not it felt like a mission. Especially at night time. I mean how bad is falling asleep with winged liner on really? It turns out its pretty bad, don't do it. 

However in these current Corona-times, my skincare routine has become a source of daily joy. It gives me some structure to my day and makes me feel like I'm doing something to take care of myself. Even if that something is slapping some very expensive moisturiser into my parched chops. Dryness has been a big issue for me this winter, but I'll get to that. 

Experimenting with my skincare in lockdown 3.0 has also given me the chance to shop my skincare stash and come up with some real gems that would've otherwise stayed forgotten in the back of my beauty drawers. Here are some of my picks from the past couple of months. 

Aromatherapy Associates Anti-Ageing Overnight Repair Mask - Described as a 'deeply nourishing anti-ageing face mask', this AA mask is a leave-on treatment that acts as an overnight facial. Its formulated with rose and frankincense essential oils to rejuvenate tired skin, while strawberry seed extracts restore moisture levels and leave the skin with a plump, healthy appearance. Millet seed and rice germ oils, to nourish and protect the skin from external aggressors and environmental damage, complete the lineup.  

It offers a rich, hydrating texture that feels really lovely on dry skin, while the essential oils make it smell incredible!  

I've been using it a couple of times a week since Christmas and it has made such a difference to my parched skin. My skin is softer, more hydrated and just looks so much better. In my experience the mask is particularly good when paired with a facial oil, I've been using it over the Elemis Superfood Facial Oil and I just love the combination. 

The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid -  The Inkey List is a brand I've been dying to try for sometime now.  Like The Ordinary, which it has been compared to many times, The Inkey List aims to deliver straightforward and effective skin care at a low price point and without all the beauty jargon. 

I decided to start off with the Hyaluronic Acid Serum because, like I said, dryness has been an issue for me recently, and it is insanely good. Truthfully, I've never experienced a product that has made such an immediate difference to my skin. 

Formulated with 2% hyaluronic acid, this wonder serum is capable of holding more than 1000 times its weight in water and works as a 'moisture magnet' drawing water particles from the atmosphere into the skin. In my experience it works best when applied to still damp skin to lock in moisture. It has worked an absolute miracle on my parched chops. Thanks to this serum my skin is noticeably softer and smoother, plump looking and oh so hydrated. I've even found that it's increased the efficacy of my other products, which is really impressive.

Tata Harper Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser* -  Now I'm not the kind of person who saves things for best, especially when it comes to skincare because I just don't see the point. I never have. But I was saving this. It just felt too fancy for little ol' me to be using everyday. Then a global pandemic happened and put an awful lot of things into perspective. And now my feelings are simply this: If I'm going to be stuck indoors for another year I'm going to use the fancy shit, damnit! 

This innovative gel moisturiser is designed to boost hydration for combination, oily and uneven skin types. It features Gel Water Technology, which offers multiple hydration and anti-oxidant sources in its formula. Key ingredients include: tremella mushroom, marsh samphire and chia seed water. 

Offering 'ultra-light' hydration, it boasts a lightweight gel texture that feels so good on the skin, and leaves it feeling fresh, hydrated and comfortable. I've been using it sparingly, because it's super expensive and I don't just have £104 to spend on moisturiser, but it is lovely and I'm a really big fan. 

The cherry on top of this delicious moisturiser is the packaging, which is sustainable, completely recyclable and also completely gorgeous.

Comfort Zone Remedy Serum* - Fun fact this was the first beauty product I was ever gifted, way back in 2017 when I first started working as a beauty journalist. I'd never quite got round to using it, even though I finished - and loved -  it's sister product Comfort Zone Remedy Defense Cream many moons ago. Wasn't that fact fun? Anyway...

The Remedy Serum is a fast-absorbing and fast-acting serum designed to soothe and protect sensitive and reactive skin. It contains 93% naturally-derived ingredients, including Marvel of Peru and Mexican hyssop flowers to leave the skin calm and comfortable. While Alpha Glucan Oligosaccharide, a prebiotic extracted from natural sugar, protects from external aggressors and free radicals. 

I've been using this product for a couple of weeks now and I like it. Its really soothing and feels really comforting and light on the skin.  My skin isn't particularly reactive but it does let me know when I used something it doesn't agree with and, so far, it's responded really well to this. 

Garnier Ambre Solaria Sensitive Advanced Face UV Face Fluid SPF 50+ - And of course I had to mention a sunscreen, I am the Sunscreen Queen after all, or was it SPF Fiend? Anyway the point still stands, I love sunscreen. It's been a while since I've tried a new SPF having been pretty committed to the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF 30* for quite some time now. But then I ran out. Because you'd better believe that, even with no place to go, I've still been slapping on the SPF like there's no tomorrow. And it's 2021, there might not be!   

Enter Garnier's new(ish) and much talked of UV Face Fluid, an ultra-light weight SPF containing hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to provide skincare benefits as well as sun and broad spectrum protection. If you're worried about photo-ageing then you definitely want this bad boy in your corner. 

A nifty little multi-tasker, this hard working SPF also offers protection from pollution and oxidative stress AND it's factor 50! It literally can't get better. Oh wait it can! It's non-comedogenic meaning it doesn't clog pores or break you out. It's also fast absorbing, doesn't leave a greasy residue or white cast on the skin AND it makes a great base for makeup.  Add to that a FANTASTIC price point, it's £8, and you have a damn near perfect product. I LOVE it! 

What are your lockdown skincare picks? 

Some High Street Skincare Loves

Some High Street Skincare Loves

Thursday, 21 September 2017

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Skincare might be my one true love. Really. I love it. Truly, madly, deeply. It's my thing. Once upon a time my thing was all of the lipstick. Now it's skincare, although I do still love lipstick. 

2015 Beauty Favourites

2015 Beauty Favourites

Sunday, 10 January 2016

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Last year I had about 5 or 6 posts just for my yearly favourites. This year I'm keeping it simple, everything beauty related in just one post. So grab yourselves a cup of tea, maybe a snack, because things are about to get long and rambly.

Makeup & Nails

MAC Eyeshadow in Satin Taupe  -  Shadow pot - £13.00, refill pan - £10.00. Both available from MAC

Well Hello Gorgeous! Satin Taupe is a MAC classic for a reason people! When I first started building up my MAC palette Satin Taupe was the first to make it's way into my basket, why? Because it's bloody lovely that's why. A lilac-y, silver-y taupe that can be smoked up for a super sexy evening look or simply washed over the lid for a more subtle daytime look. It's super versatile and super stunning. Well done MAC! 

Seventeen Phwoarr Paint Heavy Duty Under Eye Concealer in Fair  - £4.99 (currently on offer, usually £5.49) from boots.com

This concealer has been one of my favourites for a long old time now. I've raved about this concealer and shouted it's praises from the rooftops countless times so I won't bore you with the details. All you need to know is that it gives excellent coverage and lasts really well. It's fabulous. 

MAC Eyeshadow in Patina Shadow pot - £13.00, refill pan - £10.00. Both available from MAC

Patina is another MAC classic and a bit of a stunner if we're being honest. Patina is a dreamy, shimmery, rich, toasted golden brown shade that applies beautifully and looks amazing simply applied all over the lid and blended into the crease. It's such a gorgeous colour. It makes me go all hearteyed emoji. 

Maybelline Lash Sensation Mascara  - £7.99 from boots.com

Maybelline have created my perfect mascara, I'm serious, it is incredible. It gives a ton of volume, it lengthens, it's defining. It's long lasting, doesn't flake, doesn't smudge. It. Is. Perfect. 

Fleur De Force Eyeshadow Quad in Lunar Rose - £7.99 from feelunique.com

This is such a fab little eyeshadow quad, when I first got it I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I do because normally I'm not a fan of pink toned shadows, but these are seriously beautiful. The shadows are pigmented, finely milled, buttery soft in texture and don't crease. They really are amazing, especially at such a low price point. Well done Fleur!

Olivia Palermo x Ciaté in Hutch -£17.00 from lookfantastic.com

Hutch was having it's moment last summer but is a fairly recent discovery of mine. O EM GEE I can totally see what all the fuss was about. The colour is stunning, a bright and bold pillar box red with a fabulous formula. I'm a big fan of OP's entire collection with Ciaté, they are classic colours done beautifully, but Hutch is my favourite. Simple, but gorgeous.

Maybelline Master Sculpt Contouring Pallette in 01 Light Medium - £6.99 from boots.com

I never used to be a fan of Maybelline. In the past I've found them to be a bit hit and miss, and way more miss than hit to be honest. BUT over the past year they have really upped their game, and now so much of my everyday make up is from Maybelline - I also really, really love the Fit Me Concealer and the Color Drama Intense Velvet Lip Pencils! -This nifty little palette is my go to for light contouring. It has 2 shades, a contour and a highlight. The contour is a light, ashy brown that is perfect for us paler skinned lasses, it also looks really natural on the skin which is a definite plus. The highlighter, however, is the real star. A beautiful, pale, champagne colour with a very subtle shimmer running through it. It adds a very subtle and natural looking glowy radiance to the skin without looking like too much. It's just fantastic. 

Nails Inc in Haymarket - £4.99 from amazon.co.uk

I'm a sucker for a turquoise blue-y green (a bleen? A grue?) nail polish and this offering from Nails Inc is my absolute favourite. As in I love it so much I've used most of the bottle and will need to repurchase it soon! The colour is B-E-A-U-tiful! A muted sea foam, that I was wearing pretty much constantly throughout the summer. It's just so pretty and the formula's pretty fabulous too. I might actually be in love with it. 

Fleur De Force Lipgloss in Starry Starry Night - £6.99 from feelunique.com

Normally I'm more of a lipstick lover but this gloss is actually closer in formula to a high shine liquid lipstick than a gloss. It's been my go to for days when lipstick feels like too much effort. The colour is a deep berry pink that is right in my berry lip loving wheelhouse. It's so pretty but super wearable at the same time. It's also really comfortable and moisturising on the lips, fades down into an even stain and has a really good wear time. It does need to be reapplied after eating and drinking but other than it is fabulous. The only way it could get any better was if it smelt like vanilla, which it does. It's my favourite lipgloss. 

Skincare

No7 Beautiful Skin Hot Cloth Cleanser - £9.95 from boots.co.uk

No7's skincare is fabulous, but this cleanser really takes the cake. It's awesome. It promises 'soft, hydrated and radiantly clean skin' and boy does it deliver. My skin isn't great, incredibly sensitive, sometimes dry and, sadly, riddled with adult acne, but this cleanser is so gentle whilst deeply cleansing the skin, removing all traces of makeup and dirt. These days I have to be so careful with what I put on my skin but this cleanser has been an absolute lifesaver. 

nspa Skin Renewal Gel - £7.00 from Asda, available in store, not currently available online

nspa's Skin Renewal Gel is a gel exfoliator that breaks down into an oil once it's been worked into the skin, it contains fruit acids that gently dissolve dead skin cells and dry, flaky skin revealing brighter, softer skin. It's become a staple in my skin care routine because it's oh so gentle - are you beginning to see a pattern? - but it really gets the job done. 

Olay Beauty Fluid - £4.99 from olay.co.uk

Olay's Beauty Fluid is a classic, a really lovely, light weight moisturiser that nourishes my skin without irritating it or making it look greasy. I like to use it first thing in the morning because it has a non-greasy texture and is super fast absorbing, making it a perfect base for make up. I love it!

The Balm Balms Away Eye Makeup Break-Up - £15.50 from debenhams.com

The worst thing about wearing a lot of eye makeup is having to take it off at the end of the day. Enter Balms Away. With a thick, vaseline-like consistency it breaks down even the toughest to remove waterproof mascara in seconds. Amazing. 

Garnier Micellar Water - £3.33 (on offer, usually £4.99) for 400ml from boots.com

My mum refers to this as 'posh water' but she loves it really, because it's sooooo good! It removes make up quickly and effortlessly but most importantly it's hypoallergenic and oh so gentle on the skin. It's also cheap as chips. It's great. 

Other

John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse - £5.89 for 200ml from superdrug.com

John Frieda is a frizz taming god! Mousse has been a staple in my haircare routine since I was 14, when I decided to really embrace the curl and this is one of the best I've come across - the other being Vo5's Smoothly Does It - it's very lightweight, it doesn't drag my hair down but leaves my curls smooth, defined, non-crispy and most importantly frizz free. 

Lucy Bee ExtraVirgin Organic Raw Coconut Oil - £9.95 for 500ml from amazon.co.uk

Coconut oil is truly a thing of wonder. I like to use this as a hot oil hair treatment and it's fabulous.

I just melt down 1.5 tablespoons of the solid oil and run it through the midlengths and ends of my hair before leaving it for a few hours or overnight. The difference it's made to the condition of my hair is so amazing it might actually be magic. 

Garnier Intense 7 Days Restoring Hand Cream for Dry & Chapped Hands - £1.99 (on offer, usually £2.99) for 100ml from superdrug.com

My hands have really not had a good year. Hand washing, hand sanitiser and a recent diagnosis of OCD has left them in terrible condition. Dry, chapped, cracked, bleeding and really sore. Nothing, and I really mean nothing, was making any difference until I got my poor abused paws on a tube of this. It's super hydrating, fast absorbing and is the only cream I've come across that contains a repairing agent that actually does repair the skin and works instantly. I can't be without it. 

Burt's Bees Pink Refreshing Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm - £3.69 from boots.com

Lipbalm is something I can't be without and this offering from Burt's Bees is lovely. It tastes and smells exactly like lime starburst which is amazing, but more importantly it is so nourishing on the lips, giving them a much needed burst of hydration. I refuse to go anywhere without it. It's fabulous. 

Sorry that was a tad longer and rambler than expected but thanks for sticking with me. What were your favourites from the last year? Let me know by commenting below, on twitter, or dropping me an email at lolarocknroses@gmail.com. Also check out my instagram, facebook, bloglovin', snapchat - search lolarocknroses - & pinterest for regular updates. 

Love love love xxx

The Drugstore's Greatest Hand Cream?

The Drugstore's Greatest Hand Cream?

Thursday, 1 October 2015

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I just wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to, what I think, is the Drugstore's Greatest Hand Cream. A bold claim yes BUT (in my opinion) it's true. This hand cream has been a handbag staple for me for a while now (read more about that here) but lately I've been really appreciating it for all it's awesomeness and thought I needed to share it with you lovely lot. Now before we get started I have to tell you my hands have a terrible time of it. I'm a little bit obsessive when it comes to keeping my hands clean. Due to the environment I work in, my hands are exposed to a lot of germs and bacteria so I wash my hands a LOT, like ALOT a lot, and when I can't wash my hands I use hand sanitiser. I go through so much anti-bac hand gel it's actually ridiculous and it is really bad for my hands. It dries them out like nobody's business. To make matters worse I get really bad eczema as well. Honestly the poor things go through so much. At times they've been left cracked and bleeding from my germaphobic habits. And nothing was working, even steroid creams from the doctors weren't really helping and then I found this.

Garnier Intensive 7 Days Restoring Hand Cream for Dry & Chapped Hands is a rich but fast absorbing cream; containing shea butter, to moisturise and nourish, and l-bifidus, a probiotic found in yoghurt, that replenishes the skin's natural moisture and acts as a protective barrier to maintain hydration.  It leaves my hands feeling soft and nourished but most importantly hydrated. It gets to work really quickly and even lasts after washes. I can see a difference in my hands almost immediately after using it. For me it's been an absolute life saver and keeps my hands in good condition even when I abuse them with hand sanitiser and over-washing. It's amazing and I love it AND at less than £5 it's a total bargain too. What's not to love?

What's your favourite hand cream? Let me know on twitter, by commenting below or dropping me an email at lolarocknroses@gmail.com. Also check me out on instagram, facebook, bloglovin', snapchat - search lolarocknroses -&  pinterest for updates.

Love love love xxx

Bedside Beauty

Bedside Beauty

Tuesday, 11 August 2015

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I don't know about you but when it comes to taking my make up off I can be super lazy, and I prefer to do it in bed. So I have to keep all my lotions and potions handy. For today's post I thought I would give you guys a sneak peek at the beauty bits I keep on my bedside table.

No 7 Beautiful Skin Eye Make Up Remover - £8.50 from Boots This isn't my favourite eye make up remover, nothing beats DHC Cleansing Oil, but it gets the job done. It's a bi-phase formula that easily removes waterproof mascara and eyeliner, however it does feel quite greasy which I don't like and it does pull on the skin quite a bit but like I said it gets the job done. 

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water - 400ml for £3.33 (on offer) from Boots I have ranted and raved about Garnier's Micellar Water till the cows came home, went to bed and told me to keep the noise down. I love it. Especially when it comes in these uber-cute handbag sizes. Simply put it's a really nice cleanser, it gently removes all traces of make up and feels really refreshing on the skin. Speaking of refreshing...

Olay Essentials Refreshing Toner - £2.89 from Boots I have really sensitive skin so I have to be so careful with what I put on my skin. I've found some toners to be too harsh for my skin but this one is really mild and refreshing on the skin whilst getting rid of any remaining traces of make up/dirt and oil. It also smells quite nice which is always a bonus. 

Olay Essentials Beauty Fluid for Sensitive Skin - £5.99 from Boots (not pictured) Olay's Beauty Fluid is my favourite drug store moisturiser. It's really light weight and absorbs into the skin so easily leaving my skin feeling soft and hydrated. It's my go to moisturiser for when my skin is acting up because it doesn't clog my pores or make my skin feel greasy. It's a really nice moisturiser.

Rose & Co Patisserie De Bain Sweet as Cherry Pie Hand Cream - £3.99 from Superdrug This hand cream is all kinds of dreamy. It's a really sweet smelling hand cream that keeps my poor, hand sanitiser abused paws in good nick. The packaging is beautiful, that red gingham is adorable, and it smells beautiful.

Witch Naturally Clear Blemish Stick - £2.59 from Boots This is my favourite targeted blemish treatment. I like to keep it handy as I like to I dot it on to any offending blemishes before bed so it can get to work overnight. Witch Hazel is a natural astringent that dries up spots and breaks down any excess oils and pesky spot causing bacteria without being too harsh on the skin.  It can be a bit drying but other than that it's actually quite gentle. I love it. 

Blistex Daily Lip Conditioner - £2.69 from Boots Another favourite, this lip balm is so moisturising. I put a layer on my lips last thing at night and can still feel it working it's magic the next morning. It's a thick, vaseline like texture that absorbs into the lips really quickly and makes them feel so nourished and super soft, with the added bonus of smelling like mint and vanilla. It's magic in a teeny little pot. I love it. 

This Works Sleep Balm - £12.00 from This Works It's no secret round these parts that I'm a rubbish sleeper,  its well documented. Now I don't know if this actually works or if theres something of a placebo effect at play here, either way This Works Sleep Balm does help me get a better nights sleep. When I first got it I wasn't impressed (read more about that here) but since then I've found that the scent is really calming and soothes me into a better nights sleep.  I just dab it on my pulse points and under my nose and relaaaaaax.

The Body Shop Deep Sleep Dreamy Pillow & Body Mist (not available online but I think might still be available in store.) I've been using this spray for years and I love it! Like the This Works Sleep Balm it smells amazing, it has an almost citrus-y scent, and really soothes my frazzled, troubled mind. Containing Jujube Date Extract (nope I don't know what that is either) and Chamomile Oil its really calming and helps me to relax and catch some extra shut eye. 

What beauty bits do you keep on your bedside table? Let me know on twitter, by commenting below, or dropping me an email at lolarocknroses@gmail.com. Also check out my instagram, facebook, bloglovin', snapchat - search lolarocknroses - & pinterest for updates.

Love love love xxx

Pay Day Beauty Hauling (again) #2

Pay Day Beauty Hauling (again) #2

Tuesday, 28 July 2015

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It's safe to say that I may have a very slight, but very real, shopping problem. Whenever Pay Day rolls around I seem to make it my mission to see how quickly I can get rid of all my money, the upside is I then get to share these awesome purchases with you lovelies. Silver linings and all that.

So you'll notice that there's a lot of Maybelline, it was on offer that's why :),  normally I find Maybelline a bit hit and miss but they have really upped their game lately and with a buy one get one half price deal on at Boots at the moment I couldn't resist adding some of their latest releases to my collection. 

Maybelline The Nudes Eyeshadow Pallet - £9.99 from Boots

This is a really versatile pallet, made up of 12 neutral shadows with a mixture of matte, satin and shimmer finishes that will take you from the most neutral day look to the smokiest of smokey eyes. Now I am firmly of the belief that one can never have too many neutral eyeshadow pallets (seriously you should see how many I've got) and whilst I haven't tried this out properly yet, my initial impression is a bit mixed.  The shadows are buttery soft in texture and nicely pigmented, which is really good, but there's a lot of fall out. Like a lot, a lot which means application is really messy. It also cost £9.99, which is pretty good considering the L'Oreal La Palette Nude will set you back £14.99 but when you take the amazing MUA Heaven and Earth pallet, which is both beautiful and ridiculously cheap, coming in at only £4, into consideration you have to ask is it worth it? I'm not sure yet but I'll definitely let you know.

Maybelline Master Sculpt Contouring Pallette in 01 Light Medium - £6.99 from Boots

I got this after seeing Fleur De Force talking about how amazing the highlighter is and just had to try it out for myself. Now before I start raving about the quality of this product (heads up, it's a good 'un!) I have to tell you I'm not a big fan of the packaging. It's clunky and clumsy and just  unnecessarily chunky (definitely could be describing myself here ;) :S), this is because, as well as the product, it plays host to a brush and a mirror. Now I know just by looking at the brush that I'll never use it so I think they could get rid of it entirely and move the mirror to the lid making the packaging much sleeker and more travel friendly. Having said that I can live with it, it doesn't bother me that much. The product itself I really like. The contour shade is the perfect ashy, grey toned brown for us paler girls and makes for a really subtle and natural looking contour. The highlighter is lovely too, really soft and subtle but gives a lovely, glowy radiance to the skin and the powder itself is finely milled and buttery soft. I have to say I like it a lot! 

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in 10 Light - £5.99 from Boots

I go through tubes of concealer like I go through packs of Haribo, super quickly with no regrets. After seeing that Boots had sold out of my beloved Collection Lasting Perfection concealer I thought I'd try out Maybelline's Fit Me concealer in the shade 10 Light,  and so far I like it. It has a smooth, creamy formula that's easy to blend and gives even but buildable coverage. Due to the doe foot applicator it applies easily and effortlessly and blends seamlessly into the skin giving flawless coverage where you need it. Whilst it's not my favourite drugstore concealer, that illustrious title belongs to the already mentioned Collection Lasting Perfection, it's definitely up there.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara - £7.99 from Boots 

I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara (read more about that here), I'd even go so far as to say it's my favourite drugstore mascara, so it was only a matter of time before the regular formula made it's way into my shopping basket. I haven't actually tried it yet but expect a comparison post soon. 

Rimmel BB Cream 9 in 1 Skin Perfecting Super Make Up in Light - £4.99 from Tesco

I've been looking for something a bit more light weight for the past couple of weeks so when I spotted this on offer in my local Tesco I thought it was definitely worth checking it out so into my basket it went. I haven't tried it out yet, having spent the last two days watching Orange is the New Black, make up free and in my comfies, but it promises to prime and moisturise whilst also minimising the appearance of pores and concealing, covering, smoothing, mattifying, brightening and protecting the skin. It promises a lot. Having swatched it on the back of my hand I can tell you the formula is really light weight and gives a nice amount of coverage whilst still looking natural. I'll let you know how I get on. 

Mini Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water - £1 each from Asda

I saw these in Asda and actually couldn't resist, what is it about mini's that make them so darn irresistible?! They're just so cute! I love Garner's Micellar Waters (read more about that here), they get rid of all traces of make up without being harsh or drying on the skin and the size is both adorable and so good for travelling. I'll definitely be popping one of these in my travel bag if I do any unexpected jetting off this summer. (Sorry guys I couldn't find the minis on the Asda website but you can get the full size here)

Lucy Bee Extra Virgin Organic Raw Coconut Oil - £9.95 from Amazon

Last week I got my hair cut, and due to dryness and split ends I had to have way more off than I was happy with. Enter Lucy Bee's Extra Virgin Organic Raw Coconut Oil. It's common knowledge that Coconut Oil is the super-est of all the superfoods and has a laundry list a mile long of health and beauty benefits. Encouraging growth and improving the overall condition of the hair being just one of those benefits, so when I saw my newly shorn lengths I knew I had to give it a try (desperate times and all that... ps I'm totally over-reacting, it's really not that bad) and headed to Amazon where I hastily added a 500ml jar to my basket. As I write this I have a tablespoon of melted coconut oil in my hair and it smells awesome, just like bounties, and is making it feel really soft and nourished. I'll be posting a full review soon so keep an eye out for that. 

Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham & Caitlin Moran's How to Build a Girl - £3.85 or 2 for £7 here and here

These two have been on my wish list forever so when I spotted them in my local Tesco I snapped them up. I've heard excellent things about both so I'm really excited to get reading. I can't wait to get stuck in!

Cup & Saucer - £2.50 from Asda

I saw this adorable turquoise cup & saucer in Asda and couldn't resist. I love the colour and I just think it's so cute! And being a total Tea Addict I am definitely going to be getting a lot of use out of it. 

What beauty bits have you been splashing the cash on lately? Let me know on twitter, by commenting below or dropping me an email at lolarocknroses@gmail.com. Also check out my instagram, facebook, bloglovin', snapchat - search lolarocknroses - & pinterest to stay updated. 

Love love love xxx

April Favourites 2015

April Favourites 2015

Tuesday, 12 May 2015

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Okay I don't want to panic anyone but it's May. I'm not even sure how that's possible but  it's May! We're over a third of the way through the year people! Where on earth does the time go?! 

Now that the mad May panic is over let's talk about April shall we?April is my favourite month! It (usually) has Easter, the days are finally getting longer and warmer and most importantly it's my birthday month! I was utterly spoilt and got some fabulous beauty bits (read more about that here) but enough about that. Let's talk favourites. 

Haymarket by Nails Inc 

Spring has finally sprung here in the UK and that means pastels! I have been utterly obsessed with this gorgeous mint blue. It's one of those shades where you don't know if it's green or if it's blue but it's so beautiful that it doesn't even matter. I am so in love with the colour that I've been taking it off to put it straight back on again. It is so beautiful and because it's Nails Inc the formulas good too! I love it. 

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque  

I am so obsessed with this mask (read more about that here), it is my go to mask for when my skin is looking crap (which is a way more regular occurrence than I care to admit) because it is awesome. It's a bright green clay mask that smells and kinda looks a bit like toothpaste but works wonders. It's as close to perfect as a clay mask can get. It's ridiculously cheap, it clears up any superficial blackheads, dries out whiteheads and leaves the skin looking so much clearer. The only thing I will say is that it does take some time to work it's magic, but it's so worth it. Just whack it on and leave it for half an hour and voila better skin. Obsessed!

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water 

Honestly I've never been a major fan of micellar waters, they're okay I guess, but I've found that some of them can be quite drying. I have super sensitive skin that tends to lean towards the drier side of things so I normally prefer a cream cleanser because they're more moisturising. But this one seems to be designed for us sensitive skinned lasses and removes all my make up really gently without causing any irritation or dryness.  It's super affordable and lasts a really long time, 1 x 400 ml bottle works out to be about 200 uses so it's really good value too. It's just a really nice and effective cleanser. 

Real Techniques Expert Facebrush 

When I first got this brush I didn't like it very much, I thought that it gave really patchy coverage and it was just a bit meh but lately I've been absolutely loving it. I think I didn't like it initially because I'd been using it with the wrong formulas, but lately I've cracked it and my poor beloved Real Techniques Buffing Brush has been left all alone and lonely.  It just applies so easily, blending in effortlessly and when used with the right formula leaves a flawless base. Love it. 

Barry M Speedy Quick Dry in Road Rage

I have been obsessed with this gorgeous mint blue offering from Barry M's latest collection (read my review here). The colour is beautiful, the formula is awesome: thick, creamy and dries in seconds and the new brush is amazing too. On the days where I haven't been wearing Haymarket  I've been wearing this.  It's just so pretty. 

Glass Sweetie Jar by Tesco 

I have been buying so much homeware stuff lately. It's become quite the obsession. I think it's because I've recently moved back to my mum's and I'm already anticipating moving out again. I'll be honest it's not been the easiest of transitions. I spend a lot of time at my mum's anyway but still it's quite an adjustment being here full time. Anyway I spotted this pretty glass jar in the kitchen section of my local Tesco and I just couldn't resist adding it to my basket. It now lives in pride of place on my bedside table because I've been keeping cotton pads in it and I just think it looks so pretty. The best part though was the price, only cost me £4! Which is such a bargain. Loving it. 

 Awake  (Limeleaf and Grapefruit) Reed Diffuser  by Tesco

This is another Tesco find, they've been really upping their game lately! I've always been a bit wary of reed diffusers for 2 reasons. 1. I am the clumsiest person in the whole entire world and I'd definitely knock it over and 2. when I do  knock it over (it's inevitable) then the oil would definitely stain something but more importantly it's quite harmful to animals and I have a dog who I adore and I'd never want him to get hurt, especially over something so avoidable. Having said that I realised that my concerns can all be avoided. I only have to make sure that  the diffuser is kept well out of the way, which it is.  So once I'd accepted this I just had to pick this one up. Again it was ridiculously cheap - only £3! Whoop Whoop! - and has the most incredible scent! It's citrus based, and is so refreshing and zingy, I just love it. It completely fills my room  with this beautiful fragrance yet isn't overpowering at all. Not only does it smell incredible  but the bottle it comes in is really sleek and pretty too. I love it. 

Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom

Those of you who read this post will know that I, and the rest of the world, have been having a bit of a moment with adult colouring books lately. Colouring in is so relaxing and just ridiculously fun. This book is so lovely to colour in. It's beautifully illustrated and I can just lose myself for hours in it. 

What are your April Favourites? Let me know on twitter, by commenting below or dropping me an email at lolarocknroses@gmail.com. Also check me out on instagram, facebook, bloglovin & pinterest for daily updates. 

I hope you guys are having a lovely week. I'll be back on Thursday.

Until then...

Love love love xxx

March Beauty Favourites 2015

March Beauty Favourites 2015

Tuesday, 31 March 2015

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With uni deadlines and dissertation meetings and actual work March has just flown by in a pressure filled blur, my downtime was all about Netflix, comfies and no make up. So I don't have a lot of Beauty Favourites this month, (Non-Beauty Favourites on the other hand...) but the ones I do have are favourites for a reason so let's do this. 

Clinque High Impact Mascara 

AKA one of the best mascaras to ever grace my lashes, and I do not say that lightly. It is seriously amazing. It has a blacker than black formula that is super long lasting and a fibre brush that really pumps up the volume but also grips the lashes, coating even the tiniest of lashes from root to tip, leaving me with super volumised, dramatic lashes. I love it. 

Kryolan for Glossy Box Highlighter in Cashmere 

Normally I'm not a massive fan of highlighters, particularly cream ones, because I always think I'm using them wrong but this one has a lovely creamy formula that blends really nicely into the skin leaving a really subtle, pearly sheen behind. Even a noob like me can use it with ease.  It's lovely. 

Seventeen Phwoaar Paint Heavy Duty Under Eye Concealer in Fair

 I can't imagine the day when I won't love this concealer. In fact I've raved about it so much in the past that it must be really getting old now but hey ho!  It has a lovely creamy consistency, gives great coverage, covering anything from dark circles to big juicy blemishes, and stays in place all day.  It's one of my absolute faves!

Maybelline Color Tattoo 24HR in On & On Bronze

My eyelids have been suffering lately, my hayfever has kicked in early this year and they've been so sore that for a long time eye makeup was completely out of the question. They've finally started to heal so I've been wearing this to ease myself back into eye makeup. I seriously forgot how much I loved this shadow. The colour is a rich, shimmery bronze that can be slicked on for a subtle wash of colour or built up for a super smokey bronzed goddess-y look. The formula itself if lovely, really creamy and long lasting and it is the easiest smokey eye ever. Just swipe it on and blend it out. Simples.

Garnier Intensive 7 Days Restoring Hand Cream for Dry Chapped Hands

A combination of stress, eczema and  overusing  hand sanitizer has left my hands in the worst condition they've ever been in. They were dry and chapped and cracking and nothing was working... until I found this, it has been an absolute lifesaver for my poor, sore hands.  Containing ultra nourishing shea butter  and other lovelies, the formula is fast acting and fast absorbing leaving my hands feeling soft and nourished and in much better condition then they were  a couple of weeks ago. My hands aren't totally back to normal yet but they're getting there and it's all down to this.

N.Spa Skin Renewal Gel

 My absolute favourite discovery of the year so far. A bold claim, yes, but I seriously, seriously love it.  This is a no-grain exfoliator, which I couldn't really wrap my head around at first, BUT then I tried it and it is incredible. You massage the gel into dry skin, leave it for a minute or two, and then continue massaging it until it breaks down into an oil before washing it off with warm water.  It gently melts away dead skin cells and leaves skin feeling so soft and smooth and so clean. It smells lovely too and just feels so luxurious.  I am totally obsessed. 

Kleenex Blue Beauty Mask  

I have really sensitive eyes, I never used to but after an awful bout of hayfever last year they've been super sensitive to everything. Most of the time they're fine but every now and then they flare up so badly and it is really painful. Lately they've been itchy, swollen, tight and so painful to the point that I haven't been able to wear eye makeup. This mask is pretty much the only thing that helps. It's so cooling and soothing against the skin and it brings the swelling right down. Just pop it in the fridge for an hour and it is good to go. The only downside is that you do tend to look like a serial killer when you wear it. 

Those were my March Beauty Favourites, what were yours? Let me know on twitter, by commenting below or dropping me an email to lolarocknroses@gmail.com.  

I'll be back on Thursday with my March Non-Beauty Favourites until then check me out on instagram, Bloglovin, facebook and pinterest. 

Love love love xxx