Empties #12

You know it's time to pull together an empties post when there's a gang of empty products in your shower, is it just me who finishes all my products at once? Answers in the comments. As my twelfth empties post I'm sure all you all know the situation but in case you're a complete newb it goes a little something like this - mini reviews on products I've actually got to the bottom of, none of this first impressions business. Now let's get going...

Liberty London Geranium Body Wash - I daren't admit how long this beautifully packaged body wash has been hanging out in my shower but I will say I'm happy to finally complete such an epic sized bottle. Whilst I love the handy pump, something all shower gels should come with in my opinion, I found the contents to be ok. The scent was incredibly fresh but not one to linger, a quality I dig in a body product. At £16 I think there's much better shower accompaniments out there so this wouldn't be a repurchase.

La Roche-Posay Serozinc - Ah Serozinc, the humble French toner which the blogging realm went crazy for after a rave review from Caroline. This is the second can I've completed and while I was previously sat on the fence I've now decided where I stand, and it's team Serozinc. This will never be a luxurious toning step (don't worry Caudalie Beauty Elixir, you're safe) however what it lacks in luxury it makes up for in spot fighting abilities, just one spritz and any angry spot goes from hero to zero. Even though I'm not the most blemish prone gal around I can't imagine being without a can for those spot battling days. Definitely one to check out!

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo - Sulphate free shampoos are my jam and I'm yet to find one that does as good a job as Pureology. The hydrate shampoo manages to cleanse my hair whilst leaving things nicely moisturised too. Hydrate has that perfect balance down. Want a more in depth rave? Look no further. An easy repurchase.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm - Step forward the creme de la creme of lip balms. I've never tried anything else from Nuxe but boy can they make a lip balm. This thick Terrys chocolate orange scented balm has tiny exfoliating beads suspended in the formula to give you the softest lips around, ideal for pre lipstick application as this baby dries matte. At almost £10 this isn't the cheapest lip balm out there but trust me when I say this lasts ages.

Body Shop Virgin Mojito Body Scrub* - Rivalling Soap & Glorys Breakfast Scrub for pole position as my top body exfoliator is Body Shops Virgin Mojito Scrub. Not only is the scent the perfect zesty AM pick up but the unusual gel like texture means skin is exfoliated without things getting overly scrubby, you know the kind of scrubs I'm talking about (anyone else singing TLC now?) I've done a full review of this limey scented wonder here so I'll refrain from harping on. My advise? Give this a whiff next time you pass a Body Shop, you won't regret it.

Have you ever tried any of my empties? Do you have a favourite?

Don't forget there's still time to win a whopping eight products from Soap & Glory in my birthday giveaway here including the amazing Solar Powder Bronzer. What you waiting for? 

*PR Sample, all thoughts my own.

Empties #11

Call it the pregnant nester within me but I just can't help organising all my beauty bits at the moment so it was inevitable that an empties post would find its way onto ze blog - goodbye redundant products, see you later empty packaging. I'm sure you all know the drill by now but if you don't an empties post is where I tell you my true feelings on all the products I've recently finished.

Pai Perfect Balance Blemish Serum - This lightweight serum is perfection for those with unruly, blemish prone skin that also experience product sensitivity - I love how gentle all Pai products are. On application this serum quickly disappears into the skin providing the ideal base for moisturisation. While I loved using the Balance Blemish Serum I haven't repurchased, simply because my skin is no longer so spot prone although I definitely think this serum played a starring role in clearing it up.

Aesop Chamomile Concentrate Anti-Blemish Masque - As a huge fan of the Parsley Seed mask (read about it here) I decided to pick up the Chamomile Concentrate as I heard it was a souped up, intense version of the aforementioned yet even as I type I'm sat on the fence. While you see instant, fresh skin results with the Parsley Seed mask I find the Chamomile Concentrate is a slow burner (not literally, don't panic). I used this in areas where I had blemishes and found my skin looked clearer maybe one or two days after application so while the results are there it's certainly not one to pull out before a big event. At £33 it isn't the most purse friendly of masks and even though it has lasted a whole year I don't think I'll be picking it up again.

Pai Geranium & Thistle Rebalancing Day Cream - Finding the perfect day cream used to be a continuous battle (dramatic pause) until now. I've tried many a pricier moisturiser but I'm yet to find one that gives just the right level of hydration to my normal to combination skin like this baby does. The tiniest amount goes a long way and I love how this is not only a great base for make-up but leaves my skin feeling plump and hydrated without being the tiniest bit oily. A forever repurchase. 

Soap & Glory Archery Brow Pencil - And the award for brow game changer goes to...Funnily enough I've heard mixed reviews on this brow pencil but here's my two cents, I cannot get enough. The shade Blondeshell is a great match for my blondie-brown brows (try and say that quickly) and I love how you can create a naturally enhanced look or go all out an attempt a Cara. I've tried quite a few brow pencils from the likes of Space NK and must say this beats them hands down. The only downside? There's just two shades available. Fingers crossed you're one of them.

Soap & Glory Solar Powder and One Heck Of A Blot - Things are getting pretty Soap and Glory centric around here so I'll try and keep this short and to the point. If you're in the market for a new, natural looking bronzer (scowls at Nars Laguna with my fair skin) or a sheer powder that takes that hint of unsightly shine away then look no further than these two compacts. Not only are these amazing for the price (£11 and £12 respectively) but they really do work. As a blogger I should really branch out and try a different setting powder but when I find something I like, I stick with it.  

Bourjois 1, 2, 3 Perfect CC Cream - When Lisa Eldridge raves about a high-street base you run out and add one to your stash. It's rare I find a inexpensive base that floats my boat but Bourjois have got it going on with this natural yet covering base. Take the whole BB, CC thing out of the equation and this product is that tinted moisturiser you've been searching for that actually provides coverage and stays around all day. If you're a foundation gal to the very end but fancy something lighter for Summer then I highly recommend this travel friendly packaged CC cream, you won't regret it. Read my full ode to this ace base here.

Have you ever tried any of these products? Which do you rate?

Empties #10

I don't know what it is about empties posts but there's something incredibly satisfying about reviewing products I've used all the last little bits of. Maybe it's down to the realisation that it's time to buy replacements? I'm sure you all know the 411 by now with empties posts but if not it's where I tell you my honest thoughts on products I've actually used up.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water - I'm not going to harp on too much about this one as I actually used up a 400ml bottle in my last empties post. What I will say is this is the lazy girls best friend for swiftly removing make-up - it's even suitable for the most sensitive skinned gals out there. Bioderma who?

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray - It's been a whole 8 months since I last finished a This Works Pillow Spray which is a testament to just how long this sleep inducing baby lasts - I use this every night, whether I'm at home or away. I've never been a fantastic sleeper (and we're talking long before I became pregnant) so I find a spritz of this just before collapsing onto my pillow helps me to drift off much quicker than I would sans spray. A forever repurchase.

Nars Sheer Glow Foundation in Deauville - I may have let out a cry of despair as I banged this bottle on my hand for the last time (yes I really should buy a pump). Nars Sheer Glow will always be my holy grail foundation - it lasts all day, provides medium yet buildable coverage and buffs into my skin like a dream to provide a non matte/non dewy finish. My only gripe? Nars and their supply issues, this has been out of stock (on and off) since December and my order with Space NK is currently at four weeks and counting. Sort it out Nars, I need me some Sheer Glow! Want a more in depth review? Mine's here.

The Body Shop Body Butter in Glazed Apple* - I'm sure you all know by now how much I enjoy Body Shops Body Butters, they just bring the moisturisation levels like nothing else. The glazed apple scent was a special edition for Christmas and while it's no longer available I can tell you it was the right mix of sugar and spice and all things nice.

Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Travel Candle - Bought as a birthday gift last year (thanks Gem) I was a teeny bit sad when this Jo Malone candle took it's final breathe. While Pomegranate Noir is one of Jo Malones most popular scents it's never been a fragrance I've gravitated towards, until I got this candle. The mixture of sweet pomegranate, raspberry and plum combined with pink pepper and spice is truly divine making this the perfect scent to burn in our living room - it's got that unisex, welcoming home fragrance down.

Nars Creamy Concealer in Vanilla - The only concealer that helps to hide my 'baby kept me awake kicking all night' under eye bags. I love how this multi tasking concealer covers both blemishes and under eye circles although it's frightening how quick I go through this - something I've heard a few bloggers comment on. Urban Decays latest cover-all is getting some rave reviews and at nearly £5 cheaper than Nars I'm tempted to give it a bash.

Have you ever tried any of my empties? Which concealer do you reach for?

*PR Sample, all thoughts & opinions are my own.

Empties #9

It's that time again, say hello to the empties post. You guys know the drill by now, I tell you my thoughts on the products I've actually scraped the bottom of - no flash in the pan reviews in sight, just good ol' wholesome empties reviews. 

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water - It's pretty standard that you'll find a bottle of micellar water standing prettily in my empties posts but it's usually of the French variety, well all I can say is move over Bioderma 'cos there's a new girl in town. For a fraction of the price the Garnier offering removes all my make-up just as successfully plus it's easier to get hold of and gains me Boots Advantage points. My only negative is that it can leave a bit of a residue, not really an oily one but just a bit of a film which is something to bare in mind.

Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Soufflé Body Creme - I actually finished a tub of LM Soufflé Body Creme in my last empties so for fear of repeating myself I'll keep things simple. The scent and packaging of these LM body cremes is second to none so to me they're the perfect luxe gift (Mothers Day anyone?) That said I think you'd be a tad disappointed if you bought one for yourself as they're nowhere near as moisturising compared to something from Soap & Glory or The Body Shop and at such a premium price I think that's a massive no no.

Pai Camelia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser - I've been using this Pai cleanser everyday since November when I discovered a whole host of Pai goodies so it was a sad day when it took it's final pump. I've already bought a new one (and a mini version for travelling) which shows just how much I adore this sweet smelling, non-skin-disturbing creamy cleanser for both am and pm cleansing. If you're at your wits end with sensitive skin then I'd definitely suggest giving Pai a bash.

Dove Nourishing Oil Care Leave In Conditioning Spray - I remember adding the Dove Leave In Spray to a Boots shopping list ages ago after I saw Kate mention it, that gal knows hair. I'd never used a detangling spray before and after too many fights with my Denman I thought it was about time I got on board. This is now my second bottle and this one's lasted a whole year and I use it every time I wash my hair. The scent is incredible, sort of like parma violets, it rids knots like nothing else and more importantly it's a damn bargain. A back up is already in my beauty stash.

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter - Now we're talking moisturisation, if you're anything like me and love to slather on a thick layer of body butter after bathing or showering than this little beauty is the one for you. Soap & Glory never fail to disappoint and The Righteous Butter is no exception with it's signature S&G scent, you know the one right? My all time favourite scent of theirs is the Smoothie Star range so while I won't be snapping up another Righteous Butter it won't be long before S&G is back in my bathroom cabinet.

Have you ever tried any of these products? Are you tempted?

Empties #8

It's not only the most wonderful time of the year but the time where I finally wave goodbye to a stash of empties that have been cluttering my bedroom windowsill, let's just say things haven't been looking so Instagram-able around those parts. Empties are still one of my favourite kinds of beauty posts to read, it's all dandy reviewing things but I love to know which products bloggers have actually finished, and more importantly what they really thought of them.

Bioderma Sensibio H20 Solution - Another empties, another Bioderma. Over the last few months I've become incredibly lax with evening cleansing and have been using just Bioderma to take away my days face. I don't need to give myself a good telling off for this sin as my skin did that for me #notahappyface. Don't get me wrong, Bioderma doesn't break me out but shouldn't just be used solely for your PM routine, this baby excels as a pre-cleanse to remove the bulk of your make-up. At £15 a bottle it's a pricey habit so I'm currently road testing the much blogged about Garnier alternative, review pending.

Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay Candle - It's a sad day when a Jo Malone candle takes it final breathe, especially when it's your Blackberry & Bay scent with limited edition packaging. Blackberry & Bay is my everyday fragrance so you can probably guess just how much I love it - if you've never have the pleasure of sniffing B&B think of it as a burst of fruitiness mixed with a fresh sweetness. This isn't my first Jo Malone candle and it certainly won't be the last, the scent pay off is incredible. Sure they're an indulgent treat (this was actually a birthday gift) but boy are they worth it.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer - This may just be the third tube of Radiant Creamy Concealer I've finished (in Vanilla FYI). As a combination skinned gal I never thought I'd be singing the praises of a concealer with the word creamy in the title but this just packs a punch, covering both blemishes and dark circles with ease. My only complaint? I've been using way more than usual which may be something to do with the change in seasons, that said one tube usually lasts at least three months. Cost per use means this is one item I'll keep repurchasing, Nars you've done it again.

Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Milk Body Creme - If you've ever eyed up a Laura Mercier Christmas gift set you'll know just how luxurious these products look. Aesthetics aside the Almond Coconut Milk scent doesn't smell to shabby either, providing you like incredibly sweet (almost sickly) scents that is. The huge plus to these body cremes is how long the scent stays around, I can pop my pyjamas on the following day and still smell the fragrance! While these body cremes are fantastic for scent pay off I don't find them anywhere near as moisturising as something from Soap & Glory or The Body Shop especially in the Winter months. For such a hefty price tag I'd personally go for a high street alternative although they do make the most fantastic high-end gift.

Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Body Butter - Battling it out for best body butter in the land is this new fragrance offering from The Body Shop. I did a post on the launch of the Wild Argan Oil scent but for me the body butter is the stand out product from the collection. The smell is out of the world, think a souped up, slightly deeper smelling cocoa butter and the moisturising properties of this wonder tub are something else. Right now I'm working my way through some Soap & Glory but it'll not be long before this tub of goodness is repurchased. A must smell product.

Have you ever tried any of my empties? Have I tempted you to?

Empties #7

With a brightly coloured array of plastic packaging building up in my bedroom window sill I thought it was about time I tidied up, got friendly with the recycling bin and introduced you to my collection of empties...

Rituals Yogi Flow Shower Gel - As a bath lovin' gal shower gels are never something I go crazy for, that said my first venture into brand Rituals was a happy one. With just one pump of the canister this Yogi Flow shower gel quickly changed into a fragrant foam of almonds and roses, a luxe Imperial Leather if you will. For me the scent is the real winner here although at £8.50 I'm not sure if I'd repurchase, plus life's too short to buy the same shower gel again. It did last an age though.

The Body Shop Raspberry Body Butter* - Oh Body Shop, do you ever get it wrong? If you're a regular around these parts you'll know how much I dig a body butter and this raspberry scent is no exception - I absolutely adore raspberries so this one was a no brainer for me, I mean who wouldn't want to smell like raspberries? Next time you pass a Body Shop you need to give this a sniff.

Cane + Austin Acne Treatment Pads - This is my third tub of Cane + Austin pads and I've already got another tub winging its way to me as I type, they're that good. These play a crucial role in my newly streamlined skincare routine and I'm crediting them (along with a few other gems) with taming my breakouts. Packed to the rafters with salicylic and glycolic acid these miracle pads slough away at the skins surface to reveal brighter and clearer skin. Due to the high concentration of acid involved these are pretty pricey (£48 for 60 pads, say it quickly) but beyond worth it to me.   

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo - Before team Pureology stepped into my life my hair was one crazy individual - thick, unruly, wavy and colour treated it was a real magnet for frizz and looking, well a bit lacklustre unless I straightened it within an inch of its life. Enter the Hydrate range and as they say, the rest is history. Will I ever use another shampoo? I doubt it. This stuff is the bomb and manages to keep my mane in check without the use of sulphates or nasty parabens. I love it that much that I already had a back up in my stash before I finished this bottle, and I am never that organised.

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray - I've used this every night since picking this up in a sale gift set in January 2013 and now I can't sleep without it, a bold but genuine claim. There's just something about this lavender and wild chamomile scent that sends me into slumber quickly, which is amazing as I think of everything you could possibly imagine as soon as my head hits the pillow. A truly worthy repurchase and one to check out should you struggle with knocking the zzzzs out.

Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara - I may never be a mascara (or eye make-up) expert but I know what I like and what I don't when it comes to mascara. The False Lash Effect offering from Max Factor is one I come back to time and time again as it's well priced, gives a real fluttery, full and separated lash look without looking over the top and it stays put all day long.

Have I tempted you to try any of these products? Which shower gel do I need to try next?

*PR Sample, all thoughts my own.

Empties #6

How is it already time for another bank holiday? Not that I'd ever complain about a three day weekend of course, aren't they just the best? Sundays where the Monday blues never creep in are the dream. With the weather being more shabby than chic I've decided I can no longer deal with the level of clutter I've become accustomed to (I can't even blame Craig as it's all my doing) so here's me making a start with my beauty empties. One small step for Hannah...

Palmers Natural Bronze Body Lotion - If a bar of chocolate got friendly with a fake tan and bottled their love then this would be the result. What I love about this lotion is that it's incredibly easy to apply (especially with the pump), it doesn't have that awful fake tan whiff and it develops into a beautiful golden colour in a matter of hours. If you're frightened of faking it and want to dip your toe into the golden realm then I'd recommend this, especially at a cheap as chips £5.35 for 250ml. My only criticism is that things can get streaky in the hard to reach areas but can't this be said of any gradual tan when I apply it? Enough said. 

Body Shop Almond Body Butter* - We all know Body Shop bring it when it comes to body moisturisation but hands up who's guilty of buying the same scents over and over again? *My hand is well and truly in the air*. My first thoughts on receiving this? It isn't my beloved cocoa butter choice but after just one application I was thankful for the switch up. The almond scent is absolutely heavenly and the perfect blend of sweet without being OTT. An easy repurchase, see ya cocoa.

Soap & Glory Heel Genius Foot Cream - I know foot talk isn't the sexiest topic around but do you really want those tootsies feeling like sand paper for sandal season? I thought not. Soap & Glory have hit the nail on the head with this foot cream, it's neither too thin or thick in consistency and acts as a great pampering product once you've washed away the day. I usually pop this on before whacking on a pair of cosy socks to reveal super soft souls just before slumber. I've already got another tube on the go as it's a product I'd sorely miss if it wasn't in my routine.

BB Curl Conscious Creme - I daren't begin to think how long I've had this curl tamer kicking around in my stash, definitely longer than I care to admit. Bumble & Bumble are a blogger championed brand and as my hair salon once solely used their products I can safely say there's a few winners but also more losers in their much talked about range, ooooh controversial. The curl conscious creme did a good job of separating my natural waves and adding that extra level of fullness, well I thought it did. Since finishing this product I haven't repurchased and my hair is just as wavy. Maybe if your locks are super curly this one's for you, but me not missing it speaks volumes.

Nars Creamy Concealer in Vanilla - Everything you've ever read about this concealing wonder is true. I even went through a two month period of scraping the concealer dregs out of the tube thanks to Nars' supply problem, it's that good. I've raved about the Creamy Concealer here so I'll not go on, all I'll say is you need this in your life and it's finally back in stock. Hooray!

Aesop Parsley Seed Cleansing Masque - I'm a sucker for blogger hype especially when it's a brand I've never tried before which happens to have chic apothecary style packaging, yes I'm a marketeers dream. I finally took the plunge when Liberty had an amazing GWP going on and it's been going strong ever since, a grand total of eight months to be precise. As my skin is one sensitive being I'm pleased to say this works like a dream to help decongest my skin leaving things brighter, softer and fresher without aggravating or drying out my visage. I'm keen to try more from Aesop and may have already made a purchase.

Have you tried any of my empties before? Does clutter follow you around everywhere you go?

*PR Sample, all thoughts my own.

Empties #5

Tomorrow marks the end of an era as Craig and I wave goodbye to our bathroom as we know it and welcome (roughly) two weeks of general chaos as it begins it's transformation from ugly duckling to beautiful swan. I. cannot. wait. With a general clear up taking place just this morning I couldn't think of a better time to share my recent empties with you...

Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturiser in Ivory - I'm currently on my fourth bottle of the Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturiser since welcoming it into my life last April, my only criticism of my go to base would be that a bottle only hangs around for about two months. That said this tinted moisturiser would take some serious beating - thicker than any TM I've tried before, a little goes a long way to achieve that flawless, glows-from-within, natural finish. I can't imagine ever being without this complexion miracle worker.

La Roche-Posay Serozinc - This cheeky French number was easily the most talked about toner of 2013 thanks to skincare expert Caroline yet after using this for the last couple of months I must admit I'm on the fence. I adore the fine, refreshing spray mist and how it seems to soothe my skin after cleansing but personally I feel like that's all it does. Am I asking too much from a humble toner? Could this be down to the hype? Honestly I don't know and frankly I'm in two minds whether to repurchase or not. 

Clarins Instant Eye Make Up Remover - As I frequently resemble a panda the morning after wearing mascara (FYI I don't wear mascara daily as I can't get to grips with wearing it to work with my glasses) I thought I'd give the Clarins offering a go after hating on almost every high-street eye make up remover I've ever tried. Now here's where I went wrong, I don't wear waterproof mascara or heavy eye make-up and I think this could be the key to using the Clarins IEMR. Don't get me wrong it removes nearly all my mascara without a struggle but the oily residue is not my friend. At £17 I won't be repurchasing but in no way am I product bashing, this just isn't the one for the gal who rarely rocks mascara.

Soap & Glory The Breakfast Scrub - This could be is the most divine smelling body scrub I've ever tried, who doesn't want to smell like maple syrup morning or night? This scrub is not only fantastic value for money (this huge pot has lasted me months) but a brilliant body exfoliator that comfortably sloughs away dead skin cells without leaving your skin feeling stripped, just silky smooth. An easy repurchase, well done team S&G - I'm yet to try a product from you that I don't love.

Dove Hair Nourishing Oil Care Leave In Spray - I have a teeny amount of this leave in conditioner left which is awesome as it's become a real staple in my hair care routine. As someone with seriously thick and unruly hair, frizz has always been an enemy but since using this oil spray (along with a couple of other products) I've noticed a huge change in the finished look of my barnet, with frizzy days being mostly a thing of the past. I spray this sweet smelling oil liberally after washing my hair but before combing it through, allowing the spray to act as an all round nourisher and a detangler too. At £3.65 this is a serious bargain especially since it's lasted over six months. What else do I need to try from Dove?

REN ClearCalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser - Yes I've used another bottle of this seriously calming but not stripping cleanser from REN and I've got a replacement in my bathroom cabinet, that's how much I love it! I really need to control my product pumps though, I slap this on like it's going out of fashion which in some ways is a testament to how much I love this cleanser but not so much to my purse. You can read an in depth review of my favourite everyday cleanser here.

Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer - They say good things come in small packages and they weren't wrong, the Mineral Veil from Hourglass is the best primer I've ever tried by a mile and that's coming from an I-don't-need-primer gal, that's got to mean something right? Sure it's pricey but your make-up will not budge nor will your skin feel clogged. This tiny sample size lasted me a good few months so next time you attend a Space NK event you better hope there's one of these in your goodie bag. Hourglass, you've done it again.

Have you tried any of these products before? Are you tempted to give any a go?

Empties #4

When an assorted array of brightly coloured bottles and tubs start to set up camp in the corner of your bathroom you know it's time to bring it over to Cagney and Lace and talk empties, am I right?

Pureology Essential Repair Shampoo - As the owner of some crazy thick and unruly locks I'm forever on the hunt for the perfect shampoo. I'm a tricky customer as my scalp is easily irritated and whilst my hair craves moisture there's a seriously fine line between just hydrating enough and making my follicles greasy. The Pureology range contains no sulphates, is designed with coloured hair in mind and although pricey at £12 it's highly concentrated so you only need the tiniest amount. Compared to all the shampoos I've ever tried (and there's a lot) this is my favourite by far. I've just bought the Super Smooth shampoo by Pureology in hope of comparing the two so I'll report back soon. 

Rodial Dragon's Blood Hyaluronic Moisturiser - Another empties post, another bottle of Dragon's Blood Moisturiser I just can't get enough of this plumping wonder, it's genuinely is a joy to use every morning. I recently discovered this has a very similar ingredient to the Tom Ford primer which will explain why my make-up stays put when I use this moisturiser. How many bottles before I give it HG status? You'll just have to wait and see.

Body Shop Cocoa Body Butter - It wouldn't be an empties gathering without a Body Shop Butter rocking up. The cocoa scent has long been one of my faves and the rich texture is exactly what you'd expect from a body butter. I could frankly open a body care shop with the number of body butters I have waiting in the wings so I won't be repurchasing this one just yet although fingers crossed there's one in my advent calendar.

REN ClearCalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser - Everyone has that skincare item they can rely on to tame their skin when the going gets tough and for me that's got to be the REN ClearCalm Clay Cleanser which I first got my mitts on last Summer. Whenever my skin decides to welcome a hormonal break on board this bad boy gets to work and soothes everything with just a couple of uses. At £18 I think ClearCalm Cleanser is fantastic value and I adore how you can see when it's running out, that said I should really have bought a back up...

Algenist Gentle Rejuvenating Cleanser - Hmmm is the only way I can describe this Gentle Cleanser from Algenist. Bought on a whim when my skin was having a really angry time in Space NK Manchester I was assured this would calm my skincare woes. Consistency wise it's quite thick and creamy with a pearlescent shimmer running through it - once removed with a flannel my skin feels soft and a little plumped but sadly I didn't notice a decrease in my breakouts. I think this would be ideal for someone with dull, lack lustre skin but I feel there's better options out there for me personally.

Have you tried any of these products before? What's your cleanser of choice?

There's still time to enter my Origins thank you giveaway here, have you entered?

Empties #3

My pulse keeps racing as I make eye contact with the almost over flowing Space NK bag in my bedroom, only for me to realise it's not full of box fresh beauty booty but instead packed to the brim with my empties, well a girl can dream can't she? Space NK bag, it's time for you to go. Here are my thoughts on everything I've used up in the past three months...

Soap & Glory Smoothie Star Body Buttercream - If body cream could be a person then this SSBB would be Beyonce (who in my eyes is the modern day Mary Poppins, practically perfect in every way). The pistachio and vanilla scent is sweet without being overpowering, the lightly whipped texture is perfection - who wants super thick body cream in this weather? Not forgetting the fact that you don't have to stand around waiting for this baby to absorb into your skin, it just vanishes all on it's own. As soon as I saw a glimpse of the tubs bottom I dashed to Boots and repurchased, it's that good. My only criticism is that I get through this at an alarming rate, note to self - must slather on less body cream.

Jo Malone Blackberry and Bay 1.5ml (sample size) - Jo Malone are the bees knees when it comes to fragrances and I was lucky enough to try a sample of the Blackberry and Bay scent when I placed an order with Jo Malone back in March. Now it's a rare day when I finish a scent (even one as small as this) so it's a real testament to just how much I love this scent, which FYI is incredibly fresh and fruity. If I didn't already have my Diptyque Roses fragrance I would have already repurchased this, it really is special.

Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturiser in Ivory - Tinted moisturisers have never really been my bag until I tried this one in Space NK, Harrogate. Now the first thing to get your head round is the consistency, it's pretty thick and to be honest a little tough to work into the skin. I dot the tiniest amount onto my cheeks, forehead and nose before blending first with my hands before moving onto my Real Techniques Buffing Brush. Although it's certainly not the one when you're short of time I honesty don't think my skin has looked so flawless nor have I had so many compliments as when I wear this. I find this lasts all day on my skin, giving my complexion a real dewy, almost air brushed finish although I do find my nose getting a bit shiny come 4 o'clock. My advise? Get yourself a sample next time you find yourself in Space NK.

Elemental Herbology Cell Food - If your skin is lack lustre or feeling a bit under the weather then this baby is for you. As the brand name suggests Cell Food has a subtle herbal scent (but don't let this put you off, I actually kinda liked it) and a light, cream-to-water consistency which means it quickly absorbs into your skin. This is the first serum I've ever used where I've seen such a noticeable difference after just one application, my skin looked visibly brighter and even glowed! This is one for my Autumn Winter must-have list although I must admit I have one minor criticism, the pipette is a nightmare to use. You either dispense not enough or too much product, please sort this out Elemental Herbology.  

Rodial Dragon's Blood Hyaluronic Moisturiser with SPF15 - After falling out of love with my Perfect Balance moisturiser I found myself on the hunt for a new day time moisturiser, enter Rodials Dragon Blood Moisturiser which could be the one. Not only does it keeps my skin plumped and hydrated all day long (that'll be the hyaluronic acid) without feeling heavy or uncomfortable on my sensitive/combination skin - apparently that's all down to the Dragon Blood but it also protects me from the sun with SPF15. At £45 it's not the most purse friendly but I can't imagine this not being on my bathroom shelf plus how amazing is the hot pink packaging? I'm tempted to try the Dragon's Blood Night Cream, well I do have some N-Dulge points.

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in No.2 Light - Going through my Space NK bag to write this lovely post I counted not one, not two but four empty tubes of this brilliant budget concealer. I bet I'm preaching to the choir but if you've never tried one then why not? The Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer is neither too creamy nor watery and is great for concealing blemishes or covering up under eye bags. My only complaint is a tube doesn't seem to last me longer than a month but at £4.19, does it really matter?

Diptyque Roses Duet Candle - Well it was a sad day when this candle took it's last breathe, not only was this my first ever Diptyque candle but hands down my favourite candle scent EVER so serious sobs may have ensued when I realised that this pink darling has sold out everywhere. Oh Diptyque, why did you have to make this limited edition? The Roses Duet scent is super girly and to my nose, a mix of Baies and Roses. Will I be buying Baies and Roses and burning them at the same time? For the sake of my bank balance, I hope not.

Have you ever tried any of these products or have I now tempted you into giving them a go? 

Empties #2

How is it even Monday again? I can't believe how quickly the weekend has flown by in the blink of an eye. Today's the first day I've been out of the house in over a week and even though it was only a trip to see the nurse it made a nice change. After a week of recovery I'm finally starting to feel more like myself, hooray! 

It's been a while since my first empties post and I must admit I'm quite enjoying putting fingertips to key pad for a second. There's something quite satisfying about finishing a product and telling you all about it so without further a do here are just a few products I've finished over the past couple of months.

Bioderma Crealine H2O 500ml - Championed by everyone from the PixiWoo sisters to Lisa Eldridge I don't think there's a more talked micellar solution in the world of beauty. I love how Bioderma quickly removes the bulk of my make-up on days when all I want to do is to get into bed. I find the Bioderma Crealine incredibly refreshing and soothing on my skin but not the most gentle in the eye area. I've already repurchased the rather cute 100ml size (perfect for my upcoming holiday) from Escentual.com. You can hear more about my thoughts on Bioderma Crealine H20 here.

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream (sample size) - I managed to get my mitts on this sample size as a gift with purchase when I bought the Origins GinZing mascara - not only was I pleased to get a freebie but to finally try my first eye cream. The light, almost whipped texture of the GinZing Eye Cream feels lightweight yet hydrating in your under eye area. As someone with combination skin I felt this gave me enough moisture however if you're a dry skinned gal this isn't the one for you. Although I miss this product in my morning routine I wouldn't rush to repurchase. £21 is pretty steep for the full size and I think there are better eye creams out there with my name on.  

Nars Sheer Glow in Mont Blanc - What can I say? Nars Sheer Glow is still my favourite, can't be without foundation and I doubt there'll ever be a day where this isn't in my beauty stash. Recently I've been wearing lighter bases like the Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturiser but I know I count on Nars for when my skin is having a bad day. Want to hear more glowing praise for Sheer Glow? Read my full review here. For quick reference I'm shade Mont Blanc in Winter and Deauville in the warmer months.

Elemis Pro Radiance Cream Cleanser 150ml - Currently my morning cleanser of choice, the Elemis Pro Radiance Cream Cleanser can be used day or night to remove all your make-up, definitely one to check out if cleansing balms aren't your bag. I apply the tiniest bit amount all over my skin before washing it off with water to really wake me up - I've never used a cleanser that brightens my skin quite like it. As with all Elemis products there's some really beautiful active ingredients like Sweet Brazilian Orange, Lavender and Patchouli which means this baby smells divine. An easy repurchase although not the cheapest at £29, this will last you ages!

Body Shop Peppermint Intensive Foot Rescue 100ml - Certainly not the most glamorous of beauty products but hey we all like smooth and soft feet, right? This heavily scented peppermint foot cream is lovely and moisturising particularly if you pop on a pair of socks after application - if peppermint isn't for you then I'd give this one a wide birth. As foot creams go this serves a purpose but I personally don't find this intensive at all. If you're on the hunt for a foot cream I'd go for Soap & Glory's Heel Genius instead - not only is it just as lovely but at £5.50 for 125 ml (compared to £9 for the Body Shop) it's a steal.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream 10ml - L'Occitane is a brand I've always wanted to try so when I spotted a discovery set in John Lewis with two of the infamous hand creams in, a purchase was made. Through February and March I got really dry patches of skin on my hands from the cold weather and after trying tons of hand creams, this was the only thing that sorted them. The subtle Shea butter scent is just divine and on application the hand cream quickly melts into your hands without leaving them greasy. Perfect for those who suffer with dry hands and easily worth the £8 price tag (for 30ml).

Eve Lom Cleansing Balm 100ml - Another pot bites the dust (this was in my last empties post too). It's safe to say I have an addiction to the Eve Lom cleansing balm. There's nothing better than massaging a tiny piece all over your face before taking a warm muslim cloth to remove the days make-up and grime. I really need to try the Emma Hardie equivalent so I can do a full comparison on the two and save a bit of money but so far I haven't been able to say no to Eve Lom. Watch this space...

Have you tried any of my empties? Which would you like to find in your bathroom?