This mask had been on my radar for a good few months but I put off purchasing it as I wasn't sure whether it was going to be worth the money. It's not the priciest mask out there but it's not cheap either. After reading so many positive reviews and noticing that I had a £5 voucher saved on my membership card, I decided to give in and buy it. My skin has been oilier than usual recently which has meant more congestion and more blemishes, but in a way that's a good thing as it's given me the perfect excuse to start trying this out. I've been using it twice a week for about a month and I've already noticed a big difference in my skin. There's definitely a reason why this is so hyped...
The mask costs £16 for 75ml which I think is pretty good especially when you compare it to similar products like the GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment which is more than double the price! It comes in a glass jar with a twist off cap. I wouldn't recommend it for travel as it is fairly heavy.

The mask is 100% vegan and is formulated with Moroccan Lava Clay, Bamboo Charcoal, Green Tea Leaves and Organic Tea Tree Oil. It does an amazing job at drawing out impurities and refining the skin leaving it clear, smooth and balanced. It also gently exfoliates which gives the skin a gorgeous healthy glow. There is a slight tingling sensation when it's on the skin but it's nothing to worry about. I would say this is great for anyone except those with sensitive skin. 
I like to apply the mask with my fingers after cleansing but you can use a brush if you prefer. It's really easy to spread over the face despite it being a thick texture. Like most charcoal masks, it starts to dry quite quickly so you only need to leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Once the mask has set I just use a bit of warm water to loosen the product and then use a flannel to remove it. My skin is super clear and bright after using this and it feels a lot smoother too. 

This is a great product to have in your stash when your skin needs a really good clear out. I love it so much, it's replaced all of my other purifying face masks! I can't recommend it enough!


Have you tried this yet? What did you think?

Maiya
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  • Thursday, August 31, 2017

The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask

This mask had been on my radar for a good few months but I put off purchasing it as I wasn't sure whether it was going to be worth the money. It's not the priciest mask out there but it's not cheap either. After reading so many positive reviews and noticing that I had a £5 voucher saved on my membership card, I decided to give in and buy it. My skin has been oilier than usual recently which has meant more congestion and more blemishes, but in a way that's a good thing as it's given me the perfect excuse to start trying this out. I've been using it twice a week for about a month and I've already noticed a big difference in my skin. There's definitely a reason why this is so hyped...
The mask costs £16 for 75ml which I think is pretty good especially when you compare it to similar products like the GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment which is more than double the price! It comes in a glass jar with a twist off cap. I wouldn't recommend it for travel as it is fairly heavy.

The mask is 100% vegan and is formulated with Moroccan Lava Clay, Bamboo Charcoal, Green Tea Leaves and Organic Tea Tree Oil. It does an amazing job at drawing out impurities and refining the skin leaving it clear, smooth and balanced. It also gently exfoliates which gives the skin a gorgeous healthy glow. There is a slight tingling sensation when it's on the skin but it's nothing to worry about. I would say this is great for anyone except those with sensitive skin. 
I like to apply the mask with my fingers after cleansing but you can use a brush if you prefer. It's really easy to spread over the face despite it being a thick texture. Like most charcoal masks, it starts to dry quite quickly so you only need to leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Once the mask has set I just use a bit of warm water to loosen the product and then use a flannel to remove it. My skin is super clear and bright after using this and it feels a lot smoother too. 

This is a great product to have in your stash when your skin needs a really good clear out. I love it so much, it's replaced all of my other purifying face masks! I can't recommend it enough!


Have you tried this yet? What did you think?

Maiya
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I'm so glad we're nearing the end of Summer because I can't take these sudden heat waves anymore! Choosing my favourites was easy this month as I've been using these products pretty much non-stop. Most of my picks are skincare but there is one makeup item in there as well. Hope you enjoy! 
Balance Me Radiance Face Mask - £18
I've rediscovered this mask this month and it's been doing wonders for my skin. I've been having a lot of texture issues recently but this has made everything nice and smooth again. I apply this after cleansing, leave it on for 10 minutes and then add a bit of water to it so I can use it as a scrub. It uses Fruit Acids to exfoliate, Kaolin Clay to draw out impurities and Ground Walnut Shell Powder to buff away dead skin and dry patches. If you need something to help brighten and polish your skin, I would highly recommend checking this out!

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion - £8
So they've recently renamed the Advanced Retinoid 2% to this but from what I can tell, the formula is still the same. I started incorporating this into my skincare routine about 3-4 weeks ago and so far, I have nothing but good things to say about it. Whenever I use this my skin looks brighter, smoother and more refined. It's a gorgeous milky serum which layers really well with other products and thankfully hasn't left me with dry, flaky patches. Definitely one to try if you're on a budget!

Pixi Beauty Sleep Cream - £24
I don't normally bother using a separate day and night moisturiser since most of the time what I use is fine for both but I've really been enjoying using this in the evenings. It has a lovely rich texture but doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin. I apply a 5p sized blob to my face and neck and it leaves my skin feeling super hydrated and nourished. It also smells like lavender which I personally love. 

Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil - Honey - £19
My lips have been really dry and cracked recently but I've been applying this at night before I go to bed and it's made such a difference. I have the Honey scent and every time I apply it I have to stop for a moment to smell it. This will definitely be one of my Winter staples!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir Gold Limited Edition - £12
Nothing gives my skin a boost like this face mist! It's so light and refreshing and I love that it adds a bit of hydration to the skin. I'm also addicted to the peppermint scent which always helps perk me up when I'm feeling stressed.

Maybelline Color Tattoo - Creamy Beige - £5.99
As I mentioned earlier, I haven't worn a lot of makeup this month but when I have, I've kept it really simple. The Maybelline Color Tattoos are always my go-to when I need a wash of colour and this particular shade is my favourite because it gives me a bit of definition but still doesn't look like I'm really wearing anything. I've had mine for a while now and it's starting to dry out which means it's time to get a back-up!


What products have you been loving this month?

Maiya
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  • Wednesday, August 30, 2017

August Favourites 2017

I'm so glad we're nearing the end of Summer because I can't take these sudden heat waves anymore! Choosing my favourites was easy this month as I've been using these products pretty much non-stop. Most of my picks are skincare but there is one makeup item in there as well. Hope you enjoy! 
Balance Me Radiance Face Mask - £18
I've rediscovered this mask this month and it's been doing wonders for my skin. I've been having a lot of texture issues recently but this has made everything nice and smooth again. I apply this after cleansing, leave it on for 10 minutes and then add a bit of water to it so I can use it as a scrub. It uses Fruit Acids to exfoliate, Kaolin Clay to draw out impurities and Ground Walnut Shell Powder to buff away dead skin and dry patches. If you need something to help brighten and polish your skin, I would highly recommend checking this out!

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion - £8
So they've recently renamed the Advanced Retinoid 2% to this but from what I can tell, the formula is still the same. I started incorporating this into my skincare routine about 3-4 weeks ago and so far, I have nothing but good things to say about it. Whenever I use this my skin looks brighter, smoother and more refined. It's a gorgeous milky serum which layers really well with other products and thankfully hasn't left me with dry, flaky patches. Definitely one to try if you're on a budget!

Pixi Beauty Sleep Cream - £24
I don't normally bother using a separate day and night moisturiser since most of the time what I use is fine for both but I've really been enjoying using this in the evenings. It has a lovely rich texture but doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin. I apply a 5p sized blob to my face and neck and it leaves my skin feeling super hydrated and nourished. It also smells like lavender which I personally love. 

Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil - Honey - £19
My lips have been really dry and cracked recently but I've been applying this at night before I go to bed and it's made such a difference. I have the Honey scent and every time I apply it I have to stop for a moment to smell it. This will definitely be one of my Winter staples!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir Gold Limited Edition - £12
Nothing gives my skin a boost like this face mist! It's so light and refreshing and I love that it adds a bit of hydration to the skin. I'm also addicted to the peppermint scent which always helps perk me up when I'm feeling stressed.

Maybelline Color Tattoo - Creamy Beige - £5.99
As I mentioned earlier, I haven't worn a lot of makeup this month but when I have, I've kept it really simple. The Maybelline Color Tattoos are always my go-to when I need a wash of colour and this particular shade is my favourite because it gives me a bit of definition but still doesn't look like I'm really wearing anything. I've had mine for a while now and it's starting to dry out which means it's time to get a back-up!


What products have you been loving this month?

Maiya
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Everyone seems to be going homeware mad recently and I'm no exception. Ever since brands like Primark and New Look started releasing cute and trendy home decor, a lot of people have become obsessed with trying to create a Pinterest worthy home. I'm definitely one of those people and today I thought I would show you the home bits I'm currently lusting after.
Primark Faux Terrarium  -£4
Primark Photo Grid  - £6
Primark Glitter Photo Clip - £1
Primark Pink Metallic Tealight Holder - £4
Primark Grey Hot Water Bottle  - £4

Are any of these items on your homeware wishlist? 

Maiya
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  • Monday, August 28, 2017

Homeware Wishlist

Everyone seems to be going homeware mad recently and I'm no exception. Ever since brands like Primark and New Look started releasing cute and trendy home decor, a lot of people have become obsessed with trying to create a Pinterest worthy home. I'm definitely one of those people and today I thought I would show you the home bits I'm currently lusting after.
Primark Faux Terrarium  -£4
Primark Photo Grid  - £6
Primark Glitter Photo Clip - £1
Primark Pink Metallic Tealight Holder - £4
Primark Grey Hot Water Bottle  - £4

Are any of these items on your homeware wishlist? 

Maiya
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I've really been enjoying doing my makeup recently and I think it's down to how quick and easy it is. I usually opt for quite a natural look on a day to day basis and I've also reduced how many products I use which has made doing my makeup a lot more enjoyable. This is the look I've been doing on those lazy days when I can't be bothered but still need to look presentable and not like I've stayed up 'til 4 in the morning watching the Scream series on Netflix... I can't help it, I'm addicted!
For my base, I've been keeping things really simple and I'm currently using the Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation which has a good medium coverage and a natural-glowy finish. I'm still using the Bourjous Radiance Reveal Concealer because I just love how well it covers my blemishes and dark circles. To keep everything in place I've switched back to the Soap & Glory One Heck Of A Blot Powder which is more mattifying than my usual KIKO one. When I'm having a lazy day I'll skip highlighter and go straight for blush and I'm currently obsessed with the Clinique Cheek Pop in Ginger Pop. It adds a gorgeous flush and sheen to the cheeks without being over the top.

To make sure my eyes don't look bare, I like to add a wash of colour using my Maybelline Color Tattoo in Creamy Beige which is a soft, muted brown. I've recently gone back to the Estee Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Define & Lift Mascara which is my favourite for adding length and definition. To fill in and shape my brows I've been using the Shu Uemura Hard Formula Brow Pencil which is great for achieving a more natural look. 

Lips are always the laziest part of my routine, mainly because I know whatever I apply is just going to come off an hour later. I had a mini clear out recently and I rediscovered my NYX Butter Gloss in Tiramisu. It's a gorgeous everyday nude shade and it's super easy to reapply throughout the day.


What are your favourite lazy day products?

Maiya
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  • Friday, August 25, 2017

The Lazy Day Makeup Menu

I've really been enjoying doing my makeup recently and I think it's down to how quick and easy it is. I usually opt for quite a natural look on a day to day basis and I've also reduced how many products I use which has made doing my makeup a lot more enjoyable. This is the look I've been doing on those lazy days when I can't be bothered but still need to look presentable and not like I've stayed up 'til 4 in the morning watching the Scream series on Netflix... I can't help it, I'm addicted!
For my base, I've been keeping things really simple and I'm currently using the Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation which has a good medium coverage and a natural-glowy finish. I'm still using the Bourjous Radiance Reveal Concealer because I just love how well it covers my blemishes and dark circles. To keep everything in place I've switched back to the Soap & Glory One Heck Of A Blot Powder which is more mattifying than my usual KIKO one. When I'm having a lazy day I'll skip highlighter and go straight for blush and I'm currently obsessed with the Clinique Cheek Pop in Ginger Pop. It adds a gorgeous flush and sheen to the cheeks without being over the top.

To make sure my eyes don't look bare, I like to add a wash of colour using my Maybelline Color Tattoo in Creamy Beige which is a soft, muted brown. I've recently gone back to the Estee Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Define & Lift Mascara which is my favourite for adding length and definition. To fill in and shape my brows I've been using the Shu Uemura Hard Formula Brow Pencil which is great for achieving a more natural look. 

Lips are always the laziest part of my routine, mainly because I know whatever I apply is just going to come off an hour later. I had a mini clear out recently and I rediscovered my NYX Butter Gloss in Tiramisu. It's a gorgeous everyday nude shade and it's super easy to reapply throughout the day.


What are your favourite lazy day products?

Maiya
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Recently I've been having quite a few of those days where nothing seems to be going right beauty wise. My hair is dry and flat, all of my base products look like they're sitting on top of wallpaper and my overall complexion looks dull and miserable. Luckily, I have a small group of products which I can always rely on to get my skin looking good again and today I'm going to share them with you. 
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask - £55
Anytime my skin looks dry, congested, flaky or just a bit grim, this is usually the first thing I reach for. It contains 3 types of exfoliators - Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Aluminium Oxide, and Pumpkin Enzymes, which help to polish and remove dead skin. The mask is fairly strong so you only need to leave it on for 3-7 minutes. After using it my skin always looks 100x better. This is a must have for everyone!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir - £12
There's just something about this that when I use it, I instantly look and feel better. I just do 3/4 sprays when my skin needs a boost and I'm left looking super refreshed and glowy but not in a greasy way. I also find the scent to be extremely uplifting which is another thing that helps perk me up. 

Boots Botanics 100% Organic Facial Oil with Nourishing Rosehip - £11.49
Oils are amazing for supercharging moisture and hydration into the skin and one of my all-time favourites is this one from Boots. It's packed with lots of nourishing ingredients including Sweet Almond Oil, Rosehip and Lemon Peel Oil. I love that the formula is thick enough to leave a barrier on the skin but not so much that it feels heavy or clogging. I apply this at night and in the morning my skin looks healthy, plump and hydrated. My makeup applies better too!

Happy Place Cosmetics Cookie Dough Face Scrub - £14
This is my all-time favourite face scrub and it's a great alternative to the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask for those who can't use acids. After cleansing, I mix a bit of this with some water to make a paste and then I exfoliate my face and neck. My skin looks and feels so smooth after using this and it actually feels nourished which is quite strange for a face scrub. I can't recommend this enough!

Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Glow Boost Skin Serum - £16.99
I'm so glad to have this back in my routine as it's one of the only serums I've tried that actually makes a noticeable difference to my skin. I love anything with Vitamin C and this is a really nice subtle way to incorporate it into your routine. It gives the skin an instant boost and is great for achieving a brighter, more luminous complexion. If you have dull, lacklustre skin, you need to give this a go!


What are your go-to pick me ups?

Maiya
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  • Wednesday, August 23, 2017

5 Skin Pick Me Ups

Recently I've been having quite a few of those days where nothing seems to be going right beauty wise. My hair is dry and flat, all of my base products look like they're sitting on top of wallpaper and my overall complexion looks dull and miserable. Luckily, I have a small group of products which I can always rely on to get my skin looking good again and today I'm going to share them with you. 
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask - £55
Anytime my skin looks dry, congested, flaky or just a bit grim, this is usually the first thing I reach for. It contains 3 types of exfoliators - Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Aluminium Oxide, and Pumpkin Enzymes, which help to polish and remove dead skin. The mask is fairly strong so you only need to leave it on for 3-7 minutes. After using it my skin always looks 100x better. This is a must have for everyone!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir - £12
There's just something about this that when I use it, I instantly look and feel better. I just do 3/4 sprays when my skin needs a boost and I'm left looking super refreshed and glowy but not in a greasy way. I also find the scent to be extremely uplifting which is another thing that helps perk me up. 

Boots Botanics 100% Organic Facial Oil with Nourishing Rosehip - £11.49
Oils are amazing for supercharging moisture and hydration into the skin and one of my all-time favourites is this one from Boots. It's packed with lots of nourishing ingredients including Sweet Almond Oil, Rosehip and Lemon Peel Oil. I love that the formula is thick enough to leave a barrier on the skin but not so much that it feels heavy or clogging. I apply this at night and in the morning my skin looks healthy, plump and hydrated. My makeup applies better too!

Happy Place Cosmetics Cookie Dough Face Scrub - £14
This is my all-time favourite face scrub and it's a great alternative to the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask for those who can't use acids. After cleansing, I mix a bit of this with some water to make a paste and then I exfoliate my face and neck. My skin looks and feels so smooth after using this and it actually feels nourished which is quite strange for a face scrub. I can't recommend this enough!

Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Glow Boost Skin Serum - £16.99
I'm so glad to have this back in my routine as it's one of the only serums I've tried that actually makes a noticeable difference to my skin. I love anything with Vitamin C and this is a really nice subtle way to incorporate it into your routine. It gives the skin an instant boost and is great for achieving a brighter, more luminous complexion. If you have dull, lacklustre skin, you need to give this a go!


What are your go-to pick me ups?

Maiya
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I'm very fortunate to have easy-going hair and despite the fact that I use heat and only get trims two or three times a year, my hair is pretty darn healthy. I do have very long hair though which means it's vulnerable to breaking and split ends so I often have to use products designed for dry, damaged hair. I'm really happy with my current hair care stash and today I wanted to show you what I've recently been using to keep my hair feeling healthy and hydrated.
Garnier Ultimate Blends Maple & Castor Oil Conditioner 400ml - £4.49
I'm a big fan of the Garnier Ultimate Blends range and when I recently saw this on the shelf, I just had to pick it up. It's formulated with Maple Sap and Castor Oil which help to restore, nourish and protect the hair. I'm always trying new conditioners and this is one of the best ones I've come across. Firstly, it smells ah-mazing! It's quite sweet and warm but still soft at the same time. After shampooing I just spread a 50p sized blob through my mid-lengths and ends and leave it to work for about a minute, and then rinse it out. My hair is so soft and manageable after using this and I love that it doesn't leave any residue. 

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Use Dry Oil 50ml - £17
I've been using this for a while now and I'm still obsessed with it. Once I've towel dried my hair, I take a few drops of this and work it through the lengths to help nourish and smooth the hair before blow drying. It also smells incredible which is a major bonus!

Grounded Pina Colada Hydrating Hair Mask - £12.50*
Hair masks are key to having healthy hair and I love using this instead of plain Coconut Oil as I find it to be more hydrating, and also more fun to use. It's packed full of lovely ingredients including Argan, Avocado and Castor Oil, which are all amazing for the hair. I apply it to dry hair, leave it to work for 15-20 minutes, then shampoo and condition as normal. It's a great product to use once or twice a week for an extra boost.

Lee Stafford Argan Oil from Morocco Nourishing Miracle Oil - £11.99
The ends of my hair can be quite dry so I use a tiny blob of this once my hair is styled to help them look smooth and less damaged. 

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Multi-Use Nourishing Balm - £5.09
I was a bit hesitant when I first tried this as I wasn't sure if it was going to be too heavy for my fine hair but I'm happy to report that there's no greasy feeling at all after using this. It leaves my hair feeling incredibly nourished and soft and it looks so much healthier. The scent is a mix of Coconut Oil and the Extraordinary scent which I have to say is pretty amazing! I've been using this as a conditioner but you can also use it to tame frizz or as an overnight mask. I seriously can't recommend this enough! 

What are your favourite products for dry, damaged hair?

Maiya
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  • Monday, August 21, 2017

Dry Hair Saviours

I'm very fortunate to have easy-going hair and despite the fact that I use heat and only get trims two or three times a year, my hair is pretty darn healthy. I do have very long hair though which means it's vulnerable to breaking and split ends so I often have to use products designed for dry, damaged hair. I'm really happy with my current hair care stash and today I wanted to show you what I've recently been using to keep my hair feeling healthy and hydrated.
Garnier Ultimate Blends Maple & Castor Oil Conditioner 400ml - £4.49
I'm a big fan of the Garnier Ultimate Blends range and when I recently saw this on the shelf, I just had to pick it up. It's formulated with Maple Sap and Castor Oil which help to restore, nourish and protect the hair. I'm always trying new conditioners and this is one of the best ones I've come across. Firstly, it smells ah-mazing! It's quite sweet and warm but still soft at the same time. After shampooing I just spread a 50p sized blob through my mid-lengths and ends and leave it to work for about a minute, and then rinse it out. My hair is so soft and manageable after using this and I love that it doesn't leave any residue. 

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Use Dry Oil 50ml - £17
I've been using this for a while now and I'm still obsessed with it. Once I've towel dried my hair, I take a few drops of this and work it through the lengths to help nourish and smooth the hair before blow drying. It also smells incredible which is a major bonus!

Grounded Pina Colada Hydrating Hair Mask - £12.50*
Hair masks are key to having healthy hair and I love using this instead of plain Coconut Oil as I find it to be more hydrating, and also more fun to use. It's packed full of lovely ingredients including Argan, Avocado and Castor Oil, which are all amazing for the hair. I apply it to dry hair, leave it to work for 15-20 minutes, then shampoo and condition as normal. It's a great product to use once or twice a week for an extra boost.

Lee Stafford Argan Oil from Morocco Nourishing Miracle Oil - £11.99
The ends of my hair can be quite dry so I use a tiny blob of this once my hair is styled to help them look smooth and less damaged. 

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Multi-Use Nourishing Balm - £5.09
I was a bit hesitant when I first tried this as I wasn't sure if it was going to be too heavy for my fine hair but I'm happy to report that there's no greasy feeling at all after using this. It leaves my hair feeling incredibly nourished and soft and it looks so much healthier. The scent is a mix of Coconut Oil and the Extraordinary scent which I have to say is pretty amazing! I've been using this as a conditioner but you can also use it to tame frizz or as an overnight mask. I seriously can't recommend this enough! 

What are your favourite products for dry, damaged hair?

Maiya
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A big part of why I like to stay organised is because I procrastinate and lose focus really easily. I'll sit down to write a blog post but somehow end up spending the next two hours browsing on New Look trying to justify an order with £3.99 shipping. Am I the only one who hates paying for shipping? I know a lot of people struggle with this so today I wanted to share my tips for staying focused and getting shit done!
Write Lists
This is an obvious one but I can't express how much easier it makes things. You don't have to use a fancy pad or make a bullet journal, a simple notebook will do the trick. If I don't have everything written down, my brain will literally go into overdrive!

Prioritise
This links in with writing lists. I always try to complete my biggest/hardest tasks first as they're usually the most important. For example, I really struggle with taking blog photos - it's just not my strong point. So to stop myself from getting frustrated, I take and edit all of my photos before I actually write a post, that way everything is ready to be uploaded once I've finished. 

Limit Distractions
I've always had problems with being easily distracted and I've recently realised that having my phone near me when I'm blogging is a major no-no. Putting my phone in another room has dramatically improved my writing speed and also the quality of my content as I'm able to stay fully focused on the post. This goes for TV and music too. 

Make Sure You Feel Up To It
Anytime I've tried to write a blog post when I've felt down, overwhelmed or just stuck in a rut, it's never worked out. There's just no point forcing it when you're not in the mood. I know it's annoying when you want to be consistent and post content but trust me, it's better to wait until you feel in the zone rather than upload something you're not 100% happy with. 

I hope you found this post helpful and don't forget to share your tips on staying focused in the comments! 

Maiya 
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  • Friday, August 18, 2017

The Procrastinator's Guide To Staying Focused

A big part of why I like to stay organised is because I procrastinate and lose focus really easily. I'll sit down to write a blog post but somehow end up spending the next two hours browsing on New Look trying to justify an order with £3.99 shipping. Am I the only one who hates paying for shipping? I know a lot of people struggle with this so today I wanted to share my tips for staying focused and getting shit done!
Write Lists
This is an obvious one but I can't express how much easier it makes things. You don't have to use a fancy pad or make a bullet journal, a simple notebook will do the trick. If I don't have everything written down, my brain will literally go into overdrive!

Prioritise
This links in with writing lists. I always try to complete my biggest/hardest tasks first as they're usually the most important. For example, I really struggle with taking blog photos - it's just not my strong point. So to stop myself from getting frustrated, I take and edit all of my photos before I actually write a post, that way everything is ready to be uploaded once I've finished. 

Limit Distractions
I've always had problems with being easily distracted and I've recently realised that having my phone near me when I'm blogging is a major no-no. Putting my phone in another room has dramatically improved my writing speed and also the quality of my content as I'm able to stay fully focused on the post. This goes for TV and music too. 

Make Sure You Feel Up To It
Anytime I've tried to write a blog post when I've felt down, overwhelmed or just stuck in a rut, it's never worked out. There's just no point forcing it when you're not in the mood. I know it's annoying when you want to be consistent and post content but trust me, it's better to wait until you feel in the zone rather than upload something you're not 100% happy with. 

I hope you found this post helpful and don't forget to share your tips on staying focused in the comments! 

Maiya 
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The new Garnier SkinActive range sent everyone into overdrive when it launched but I held off at first as I wanted to see what everyone thought. Most of the reviews I read were positive so I decided to try some of the products from the Honey line. I've been testing them out for a while and I thought it was about time I tell you what I think!
Honey Gel Wash 
You get 150ml for £3.49 which is amazing value for money and it should hopefully last you a good 3-4 months if you use it morning and night. It comes in a plastic bottle with a pump which makes it super handy for travel. The cleanser is made with 96% ingredients of natural origin and is enriched with Honey Flower. It also contains Salicylic Acid and Glycerin. I think this is a lovely cleanser to use either AM or PM when you want something quick and easy. Although it doesn't say anything about makeup, two cleanses will remove a full face of cake. The Honey range is designed for dry to very dry skin and whilst it doesn't leave the skin feeling stripped or tight, it obviously won't leave the skin feeling as conditioned as a balm or oil would. I take 1-2 pumps and massage it through and then remove with a flannel but you can rinse off if you prefer. There is a bit of foam action due to the SLS but it's nothing new if you use traditional face washes. After using it my skin feels soft, clean and hydrated. Definitely a thumbs up from me!

Honey Toner
This also costs £3.49 but you get a whopping 200ml! This is very similar to the gel wash in terms of the formula and results. It does contain Alcohol Denat but it's not noticeable at all. I pour it onto a cotton pad after cleansing and it leaves my skin feeling hydrated, plump and balanced. Whilst I do really like this toner, I don't think it's something I would repurchase, mainly due to the fact that I have others which I prefer. If you're a teen or you're looking for a budget toner that isn't going to dry the hell out of your skin, I would highly recommend checking this out!


Have you tried anything from the SkinActive range? 

Maiya
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  • Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Garnier SkinActive Review - Honey Gel Wash & Toner

The new Garnier SkinActive range sent everyone into overdrive when it launched but I held off at first as I wanted to see what everyone thought. Most of the reviews I read were positive so I decided to try some of the products from the Honey line. I've been testing them out for a while and I thought it was about time I tell you what I think!
Honey Gel Wash 
You get 150ml for £3.49 which is amazing value for money and it should hopefully last you a good 3-4 months if you use it morning and night. It comes in a plastic bottle with a pump which makes it super handy for travel. The cleanser is made with 96% ingredients of natural origin and is enriched with Honey Flower. It also contains Salicylic Acid and Glycerin. I think this is a lovely cleanser to use either AM or PM when you want something quick and easy. Although it doesn't say anything about makeup, two cleanses will remove a full face of cake. The Honey range is designed for dry to very dry skin and whilst it doesn't leave the skin feeling stripped or tight, it obviously won't leave the skin feeling as conditioned as a balm or oil would. I take 1-2 pumps and massage it through and then remove with a flannel but you can rinse off if you prefer. There is a bit of foam action due to the SLS but it's nothing new if you use traditional face washes. After using it my skin feels soft, clean and hydrated. Definitely a thumbs up from me!

Honey Toner
This also costs £3.49 but you get a whopping 200ml! This is very similar to the gel wash in terms of the formula and results. It does contain Alcohol Denat but it's not noticeable at all. I pour it onto a cotton pad after cleansing and it leaves my skin feeling hydrated, plump and balanced. Whilst I do really like this toner, I don't think it's something I would repurchase, mainly due to the fact that I have others which I prefer. If you're a teen or you're looking for a budget toner that isn't going to dry the hell out of your skin, I would highly recommend checking this out!


Have you tried anything from the SkinActive range? 

Maiya
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I feel like primers are the marmite product of the beauty industry. You either love them or you hate them. I'm definitely pro-primer and today I thought I would carry on with my edit series and show you my favourite primers for every concern.
Primark Primer Water - £2.00
I just had to include this as it's the first primer in ages that made its way into my daily makeup routine after just one use. It helps to refresh, hydrate and keep everything glued together. Sometimes I'll even do a couple sprays when my makeup is finished to make sure everything looks nice and natural. It has a slight floral scent but it disappears almost instantly. This is a must have for everyone!

Soap & Glory One Heck Of A Blot Primer - £11
I'm not usually a fan of blurring primers as I find they can be too silicone heavy but this is completely different. It has a lovely smooth texture and it actually feels hydrating on the skin. A little goes a long way and I love using it on my congested areas to minimise the appearance of my pores. Yes, I'm obsessed with my pores, don't judge me! I think this is a great budget option for those with oily/combination skin. 

Too Faced Hangover Primer - £27
This is a beautiful primer for anyone with dry/dehydrated skin. It helps to moisturise and hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue. I just take a 5p sized amount and spread it over my face before applying my foundation. It glides over the skin and leaves it feeling lovely and soft. It also smells of coconut which is a major bonus!

CHANEL Le Blanc De Chanel - £35
You all know I love me some glow and when I want something subtle to use under my foundation, this is always my go-to. It has a lovely sheen but no chunky shimmer or glitter. It's not going to help the wear time of your foundation but it will give you a gorgeous, luminous finish. 


Have you tried any of these primers? What did you think?

Maiya
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  • Tuesday, August 15, 2017

The Primer Edit

I feel like primers are the marmite product of the beauty industry. You either love them or you hate them. I'm definitely pro-primer and today I thought I would carry on with my edit series and show you my favourite primers for every concern.
Primark Primer Water - £2.00
I just had to include this as it's the first primer in ages that made its way into my daily makeup routine after just one use. It helps to refresh, hydrate and keep everything glued together. Sometimes I'll even do a couple sprays when my makeup is finished to make sure everything looks nice and natural. It has a slight floral scent but it disappears almost instantly. This is a must have for everyone!

Soap & Glory One Heck Of A Blot Primer - £11
I'm not usually a fan of blurring primers as I find they can be too silicone heavy but this is completely different. It has a lovely smooth texture and it actually feels hydrating on the skin. A little goes a long way and I love using it on my congested areas to minimise the appearance of my pores. Yes, I'm obsessed with my pores, don't judge me! I think this is a great budget option for those with oily/combination skin. 

Too Faced Hangover Primer - £27
This is a beautiful primer for anyone with dry/dehydrated skin. It helps to moisturise and hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue. I just take a 5p sized amount and spread it over my face before applying my foundation. It glides over the skin and leaves it feeling lovely and soft. It also smells of coconut which is a major bonus!

CHANEL Le Blanc De Chanel - £35
You all know I love me some glow and when I want something subtle to use under my foundation, this is always my go-to. It has a lovely sheen but no chunky shimmer or glitter. It's not going to help the wear time of your foundation but it will give you a gorgeous, luminous finish. 


Have you tried any of these primers? What did you think?

Maiya
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I always love reading blog related posts and seen as I've never done one before, today I thought I would talk all about my blogging essentials. I get quite a few questions about my camera, lighting etc so I'm going to cover everything from what I use to take my photos to how I plan and schedule my posts. I've also listed where to find amazing stationery and props! 
Planners 
I never knew how beneficial blog planners were until I started using them. I got mine from PaperChicPlans and I absolutely love them. They're so detailed and I love that I can tick things off as I go. I use them to schedule posts, make to-do lists and keep track of my social media stats. Unfortunately, Claudia is no longer making them but there are a few left in the sale on her website if you fancy getting one! Etsy and TK Maxx also have some great ones!

Computer 
I use an iMac to write my blog posts and I love it! Of course, you can use any computer/laptop but I'm so glad I decided to bite the bullet and get an Apple computer. It's also super handy for making YouTube videos!

Camera & Lighting
I've had a bit of a rollercoaster ride when it comes to what to use for my blog photos but now, 99% of the time, I use my iPhone 6. It doesn't have the best camera in the world but it gets the job done. Lighting also plays a massive part in picture quality and I find natural/daylight works best. 

Stationery
I've found so many cute stationery bits recently. Primark has lots of new stuff in at the moment including planners, notebooks, and sticky notes. Every blogger needs a gorgeous pen to write with and these ones from ICE London are absolutely stunning. I have the Rose Gold Pen Trio* and a few Royal/Magnetic Clip Pens* which are all embellished with Swarovski crystals. They literally make me feel like a princess!

Props
When I first started blogging I didn't really bother with props but I've recently realised what a difference they make. Some of my favourite things to use are magazines, plants, books and beauty tools. Primark, New Look, and TK Maxx are where I get most of mine! 

Grammarly
Spelling mistakes really bother me so proofreading is not something I take lightly. I recently downloaded Grammarly and I'm so glad I did because it means I don't make any mistakes. This isn't essential but if you're a perfectionist like me, I would highly recommend trying it!


What are your blogging essentials?

Maiya
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This post contains PR/Gifted items. All opinions are 100% my own. Read my full disclaimer here.
  • Saturday, August 12, 2017

My Blogging Essentials

I always love reading blog related posts and seen as I've never done one before, today I thought I would talk all about my blogging essentials. I get quite a few questions about my camera, lighting etc so I'm going to cover everything from what I use to take my photos to how I plan and schedule my posts. I've also listed where to find amazing stationery and props! 
Planners 
I never knew how beneficial blog planners were until I started using them. I got mine from PaperChicPlans and I absolutely love them. They're so detailed and I love that I can tick things off as I go. I use them to schedule posts, make to-do lists and keep track of my social media stats. Unfortunately, Claudia is no longer making them but there are a few left in the sale on her website if you fancy getting one! Etsy and TK Maxx also have some great ones!

Computer 
I use an iMac to write my blog posts and I love it! Of course, you can use any computer/laptop but I'm so glad I decided to bite the bullet and get an Apple computer. It's also super handy for making YouTube videos!

Camera & Lighting
I've had a bit of a rollercoaster ride when it comes to what to use for my blog photos but now, 99% of the time, I use my iPhone 6. It doesn't have the best camera in the world but it gets the job done. Lighting also plays a massive part in picture quality and I find natural/daylight works best. 

Stationery
I've found so many cute stationery bits recently. Primark has lots of new stuff in at the moment including planners, notebooks, and sticky notes. Every blogger needs a gorgeous pen to write with and these ones from ICE London are absolutely stunning. I have the Rose Gold Pen Trio* and a few Royal/Magnetic Clip Pens* which are all embellished with Swarovski crystals. They literally make me feel like a princess!

Props
When I first started blogging I didn't really bother with props but I've recently realised what a difference they make. Some of my favourite things to use are magazines, plants, books and beauty tools. Primark, New Look, and TK Maxx are where I get most of mine! 

Grammarly
Spelling mistakes really bother me so proofreading is not something I take lightly. I recently downloaded Grammarly and I'm so glad I did because it means I don't make any mistakes. This isn't essential but if you're a perfectionist like me, I would highly recommend trying it!


What are your blogging essentials?

Maiya
x


This post contains PR/Gifted items. All opinions are 100% my own. Read my full disclaimer here.
I'm so excited that we've finally reached August because it means I get to go back to Birmingham for my birthday. Woop Woop! The months are just flying by and I can't believe it's time for another monthly favourites post. There were quite a few things I was loving throughout July which I'm so happy about as I usually I struggle to find new things to show you!
Boots Botanics Organic Rosewater Toning Spritz - £6.99
I've been using this spritz for a long time now and I still can't get enough of it. It's such a gorgeous mist and I love using it in my skincare routine. The rose scent is really calming and my skin always feels soft and hydrated after using it. The Boots Botanics range has recently had a makeover and I have to say, I'm digging their new packaging!

MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Waterproof Colour Stick - Tea Leaves 
I can't seem to find this on the website so I'm assuming it's been discontinued which is such a shame because I love this eyeshadow stick. It's a long wear formula so it really lasts on the eyes and doesn't crease or move throughout the day. I have the shade Tea Leaves which is a lovely bronze-taupe. If you can find these colour sticks online or in store, I would highly recommend checking them out. 

KIKO Cosmetics Kiss Balm SPF 15 - 01 Coconut 
This has also been discontinued but their Coloured Balm seems to be the same thing, just in different packaging. Recently I've been opting for lip balm instead of lipstick because I've been enjoying a more glossy finish, especially when paired with a really glowy base. This has no tint, smells like coconut and has SPF 15. What more could you ask for?

The Body Shop Hawaiian Kukui Rich Nurturing Body Cream 50ml - £7
The Spa of The World range from TBS has recently launched their products in 50ml sizes which I think is a genius as it means you can try out a product and not have to worry about having a tonne left over if you don't like it. I'm actually loving this body cream right now which is quite surprising as it's very thick and normally I can't stand heavy products. This is so moisturising but it doesn't leave you feeling greasy or sticky. It smells amazing too!

Collection Lasting Perfection Colour Correction Concealer - Lemon - £4.19
I've been using this to highlight under my eyes mixed with my concealer and it creates a beautiful lifted appearance. It also works nicely on the other high points of the face. The formula is the same as the Lasting Perfection Concealer so it's nice and blendable. If you're looking for a subtle way to highlight, this is a great option!

Boots Cucumber Eye Gel - £1.50
I picked this up on a whim but I've actually become quite obsessed with it. The gel formula is lovely and cooling and it leaves my eye area feeling hydrated but not greasy. For £1.50, you can't go wrong!

What products were you loving throughout July?

Maiya
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  • Wednesday, August 02, 2017

July Favourites 2017

I'm so excited that we've finally reached August because it means I get to go back to Birmingham for my birthday. Woop Woop! The months are just flying by and I can't believe it's time for another monthly favourites post. There were quite a few things I was loving throughout July which I'm so happy about as I usually I struggle to find new things to show you!
Boots Botanics Organic Rosewater Toning Spritz - £6.99
I've been using this spritz for a long time now and I still can't get enough of it. It's such a gorgeous mist and I love using it in my skincare routine. The rose scent is really calming and my skin always feels soft and hydrated after using it. The Boots Botanics range has recently had a makeover and I have to say, I'm digging their new packaging!

MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Waterproof Colour Stick - Tea Leaves 
I can't seem to find this on the website so I'm assuming it's been discontinued which is such a shame because I love this eyeshadow stick. It's a long wear formula so it really lasts on the eyes and doesn't crease or move throughout the day. I have the shade Tea Leaves which is a lovely bronze-taupe. If you can find these colour sticks online or in store, I would highly recommend checking them out. 

KIKO Cosmetics Kiss Balm SPF 15 - 01 Coconut 
This has also been discontinued but their Coloured Balm seems to be the same thing, just in different packaging. Recently I've been opting for lip balm instead of lipstick because I've been enjoying a more glossy finish, especially when paired with a really glowy base. This has no tint, smells like coconut and has SPF 15. What more could you ask for?

The Body Shop Hawaiian Kukui Rich Nurturing Body Cream 50ml - £7
The Spa of The World range from TBS has recently launched their products in 50ml sizes which I think is a genius as it means you can try out a product and not have to worry about having a tonne left over if you don't like it. I'm actually loving this body cream right now which is quite surprising as it's very thick and normally I can't stand heavy products. This is so moisturising but it doesn't leave you feeling greasy or sticky. It smells amazing too!

Collection Lasting Perfection Colour Correction Concealer - Lemon - £4.19
I've been using this to highlight under my eyes mixed with my concealer and it creates a beautiful lifted appearance. It also works nicely on the other high points of the face. The formula is the same as the Lasting Perfection Concealer so it's nice and blendable. If you're looking for a subtle way to highlight, this is a great option!

Boots Cucumber Eye Gel - £1.50
I picked this up on a whim but I've actually become quite obsessed with it. The gel formula is lovely and cooling and it leaves my eye area feeling hydrated but not greasy. For £1.50, you can't go wrong!

What products were you loving throughout July?

Maiya
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A twenty-something beauty & lifestyle blogger with an addiction to iced coffee, chunky trainers and Italian food.

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@maiyabellexo