Cult Beauty has quickly become one of my favourite places to shop for all things makeup and skincare. They have such an amazing selection of brands and they're constantly adding new ones to the mix. I'm always seeing people rave about products that I have to try and the majority of the time they're available on CB so naturally, it's where I shop most of the time I want to buy something. There are a handful of goodies in particular that I think are well worth ordering from them and here they are! 

The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer* | I rarely use mattifying primers as a lot of them can be quite drying but this one helps blur the skin whilst still giving a bit of slip. After moisturising, I apply a small amount to my nose, forehead and chin and everything looks so much smoother and refined. If you struggle with pores, excess oil and your foundation not lasting long enough then you need to give this a go! 

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter | I think everyone needs this gem in their collection. It's a primer/highlighter/perfector hybrid and is great for those who crave glowing skin! You can use it underneath your foundation to add an all-over radiance, mixed in with your base for a sheer, more dewy coverage or appled to the high points for a megawatt highlighter. I love using this on freshly cleansed skin when I'm lazing around the house for that extra boost!

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer | It took me quite a while to purchase this cult classic but once I did I quickly realised what people were raving about. It's such a great concealer for under the eyes and any areas of redness/blemishes and I love that you don't need to use a lot of product. The finish isn't as radiant as the name suggests but it isn't super matte either - it really is a lovely concealer! 

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Bronzer | I honestly don't know what I did before I had this baby in my life. I've always struggled to find a decent bronzer as I'm fairly pale and you will instantly see any unnatural orange tones or muddiness. This is the lighter version of the original and it is perfect for those with fair-light skin both as a bronzer or as a contour powder. I love using this on my nose as it creates a gorgeous shadow that actually looks real. It also smells like actual chocolate - yum! 

Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Lashes Volume 2 | I'm super fussy when it comes to mascaras especially because my lashes are quite straight and don't always hold a curl but Charlotte has reformulated her original Legendary Lashes mascara and it now increases volume by 500% without the constant smudging! I only need one coat of this but you can definitely build it up for some serious drama! 

What are your go-to Cult Beauty buys? 

Maiya

x

• Saturday, December 29, 2018

Five Cult Beauty Buys That Are Totally Worth It

Cult Beauty has quickly become one of my favourite places to shop for all things makeup and skincare. They have such an amazing selection of brands and they're constantly adding new ones to the mix. I'm always seeing people rave about products that I have to try and the majority of the time they're available on CB so naturally, it's where I shop most of the time I want to buy something. There are a handful of goodies in particular that I think are well worth ordering from them and here they are! 

The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer* | I rarely use mattifying primers as a lot of them can be quite drying but this one helps blur the skin whilst still giving a bit of slip. After moisturising, I apply a small amount to my nose, forehead and chin and everything looks so much smoother and refined. If you struggle with pores, excess oil and your foundation not lasting long enough then you need to give this a go! 

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter | I think everyone needs this gem in their collection. It's a primer/highlighter/perfector hybrid and is great for those who crave glowing skin! You can use it underneath your foundation to add an all-over radiance, mixed in with your base for a sheer, more dewy coverage or appled to the high points for a megawatt highlighter. I love using this on freshly cleansed skin when I'm lazing around the house for that extra boost!

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer | It took me quite a while to purchase this cult classic but once I did I quickly realised what people were raving about. It's such a great concealer for under the eyes and any areas of redness/blemishes and I love that you don't need to use a lot of product. The finish isn't as radiant as the name suggests but it isn't super matte either - it really is a lovely concealer! 

Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Bronzer | I honestly don't know what I did before I had this baby in my life. I've always struggled to find a decent bronzer as I'm fairly pale and you will instantly see any unnatural orange tones or muddiness. This is the lighter version of the original and it is perfect for those with fair-light skin both as a bronzer or as a contour powder. I love using this on my nose as it creates a gorgeous shadow that actually looks real. It also smells like actual chocolate - yum! 

Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Lashes Volume 2 | I'm super fussy when it comes to mascaras especially because my lashes are quite straight and don't always hold a curl but Charlotte has reformulated her original Legendary Lashes mascara and it now increases volume by 500% without the constant smudging! I only need one coat of this but you can definitely build it up for some serious drama! 

What are your go-to Cult Beauty buys? 

Maiya

x

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Anyone who knows me knows I love watching TV. I spent most of my childhood addicted to the Disney channel and BBC Three (who remembers Coming Of Age?). Obviously, my taste has changed since then and like most of you, the majority of my evenings consist of a massive cuppa and a good old Netflix binge. I've recently discovered some new series and a couple of films that I really enjoyed so I thought I would share them with you! 

The Haunting Of Hill House | Now I haven't watched many Netflix series but when everyone started talking about this I knew I had to see what all the fuss was about. I'm constantly watching horror films but always left thinking well that was a bit shit but this show will have you sleeping with the lights on! It's about a family that moves into a new house and almost straight away supernatural incidents start occurring but they don't stop after they leave. If you've been looking for something that will have you on the edge of your seat (and peaking through your hands) you need to give this a go! 

The Vampire Diaries | Before you say anything I know I'm about ten years late to the party but I recently started watching this and as you can probably guess I am completely obsessed! It's such a great teenage drama and I think the cast, story and layout of the show are just fab! I finished Pretty Little Liars quite a while ago and this has followed it perfectly! I've only just started season 3 so I have a long way to go yet but at the moment I'm watching about five episodes at a time because it's so addictive! Also in case you're a VD fan and are wondering I'm team Damon all the way *starts fanning self*! 

Apostle | Hubby and I stumbled across this and thought it looked quite interesting and it actually turned out to be a really good horror. It starts off quite chilled but quickly turns into something really dark and gruesome but it's so well done! It's set on a Welsh island in 1905 which I love and there are definitely some weird twists and moments that'll leave you thinking WTF?! Also, one of the main characters is played by Michael Sheen (I totally fangirled!) so I highly recommend watching it! 

Gerald's Game | This is another Netflix Original and like THOHH it had some really good reviews when it first came out. It's based on the Stephen King novel and it turned out to be quite different from what I was expecting! It contains some mature themes (just a heads up) but the suspense will have you glued to the screen! It's one of those films that starts off quite happy and optimistic but by the end, you feel like you won't make it out alive! 

Have you watched any of these picks recently?

Maiya 

x 

• Thursday, December 27, 2018

What I've Recently Been Watching On Netflix

Anyone who knows me knows I love watching TV. I spent most of my childhood addicted to the Disney channel and BBC Three (who remembers Coming Of Age?). Obviously, my taste has changed since then and like most of you, the majority of my evenings consist of a massive cuppa and a good old Netflix binge. I've recently discovered some new series and a couple of films that I really enjoyed so I thought I would share them with you! 

The Haunting Of Hill House | Now I haven't watched many Netflix series but when everyone started talking about this I knew I had to see what all the fuss was about. I'm constantly watching horror films but always left thinking well that was a bit shit but this show will have you sleeping with the lights on! It's about a family that moves into a new house and almost straight away supernatural incidents start occurring but they don't stop after they leave. If you've been looking for something that will have you on the edge of your seat (and peaking through your hands) you need to give this a go! 

The Vampire Diaries | Before you say anything I know I'm about ten years late to the party but I recently started watching this and as you can probably guess I am completely obsessed! It's such a great teenage drama and I think the cast, story and layout of the show are just fab! I finished Pretty Little Liars quite a while ago and this has followed it perfectly! I've only just started season 3 so I have a long way to go yet but at the moment I'm watching about five episodes at a time because it's so addictive! Also in case you're a VD fan and are wondering I'm team Damon all the way *starts fanning self*! 

Apostle | Hubby and I stumbled across this and thought it looked quite interesting and it actually turned out to be a really good horror. It starts off quite chilled but quickly turns into something really dark and gruesome but it's so well done! It's set on a Welsh island in 1905 which I love and there are definitely some weird twists and moments that'll leave you thinking WTF?! Also, one of the main characters is played by Michael Sheen (I totally fangirled!) so I highly recommend watching it! 

Gerald's Game | This is another Netflix Original and like THOHH it had some really good reviews when it first came out. It's based on the Stephen King novel and it turned out to be quite different from what I was expecting! It contains some mature themes (just a heads up) but the suspense will have you glued to the screen! It's one of those films that starts off quite happy and optimistic but by the end, you feel like you won't make it out alive! 

Have you watched any of these picks recently?

Maiya 

x 

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Can you believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve? I honestly have no idea where the year has gone but I couldn't be more excited for a fresh start and to see what 2019 has in store for me! I love trying to find the perfect present but like most of you a lot of my shopping is left right until the end (I know, I'm so organised) so I thought I would put together a little roundup of goodies to help give you some cute and thoughtful last minute gift ideas! Let the panic begin! 

Pixi X Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse | I think Pixi is a great brand to check out if you're thinking about gifting skincare. It can be tricky to know what to go for so if you're in doubt I highly recommend this duo which comes with both a cleansing balm and cream. It's fragrance-free and is a great pick no matter what your age or skin type! 

Rituals The Ritual Of Yalda Foaming Shower Gel* | I love receiving body products for Crimbo, especially bath and shower goodies. This is probably the best smelling shower gel I've ever used! The scent is Pomegranate and Watermelon but to me, this smells like a Tango Ice Blast - yes really! The foam action is super luxurious and leaves the skin feeling super smooth and soft! 

Jo Malone | Who doesn't love a bit of Jo Malone at Christmas? I think her fragrances are great when you want to treat someone special but you don't know where to look. The staff are always really friendly and so helpful at figuring out which scent would be good for the person you're buying for. They also have candles, body lotions and lots of other gorgeous bits!

Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Palette | I'm including this palette but to be honest any of Charlotte's palettes would make a makeup lover's day! It comes with three eyeshadows and a pressed glitter which looks absolutely stunning on the lids! The perfect option for a festive smokey eye! 

Missguided Boss Babe Gift Set* | Missguided also have some gorgeous fragrances and this one is my favourite for a night out or special occasion. It's quite a dark, sexy scent and it now comes in a mini roller ball or this gift set with a black pom pom. How cute?! 

Real Techniques 2 Miracle Mini Eraser Sponges | I love using sponges to do my makeup, they just make everything look so seamless and polished. The RT ones are definitely my favourite and I think they would be amazing for a secret Santa present or as a side gift! 

Merry Christmas everyone - I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Maiya

x

• Sunday, December 23, 2018

A Last Minute Christmas Gift Guide

Can you believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve? I honestly have no idea where the year has gone but I couldn't be more excited for a fresh start and to see what 2019 has in store for me! I love trying to find the perfect present but like most of you a lot of my shopping is left right until the end (I know, I'm so organised) so I thought I would put together a little roundup of goodies to help give you some cute and thoughtful last minute gift ideas! Let the panic begin! 

Pixi X Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse | I think Pixi is a great brand to check out if you're thinking about gifting skincare. It can be tricky to know what to go for so if you're in doubt I highly recommend this duo which comes with both a cleansing balm and cream. It's fragrance-free and is a great pick no matter what your age or skin type! 

Rituals The Ritual Of Yalda Foaming Shower Gel* | I love receiving body products for Crimbo, especially bath and shower goodies. This is probably the best smelling shower gel I've ever used! The scent is Pomegranate and Watermelon but to me, this smells like a Tango Ice Blast - yes really! The foam action is super luxurious and leaves the skin feeling super smooth and soft! 

Jo Malone | Who doesn't love a bit of Jo Malone at Christmas? I think her fragrances are great when you want to treat someone special but you don't know where to look. The staff are always really friendly and so helpful at figuring out which scent would be good for the person you're buying for. They also have candles, body lotions and lots of other gorgeous bits!

Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Palette | I'm including this palette but to be honest any of Charlotte's palettes would make a makeup lover's day! It comes with three eyeshadows and a pressed glitter which looks absolutely stunning on the lids! The perfect option for a festive smokey eye! 

Missguided Boss Babe Gift Set* | Missguided also have some gorgeous fragrances and this one is my favourite for a night out or special occasion. It's quite a dark, sexy scent and it now comes in a mini roller ball or this gift set with a black pom pom. How cute?! 

Real Techniques 2 Miracle Mini Eraser Sponges | I love using sponges to do my makeup, they just make everything look so seamless and polished. The RT ones are definitely my favourite and I think they would be amazing for a secret Santa present or as a side gift! 

Merry Christmas everyone - I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Maiya

x

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Who doesn't love a good budget beauty buy? I personally find it much more exciting finding new products on the high-street as opposed to a luxury counter. I've recently discovered some amazing gems but I thought I would show you some of my old favourites too. Get ready to make a trip to Boots! 

Pantene 3 Minute Miracle Repair & Protect Conditioner | This is actually the product that inspired this blog post. I picked it up on a whim as I needed a new conditioner but it turned out to be a real winner. It feels like an expensive treatment but you use it everytime you wash your hair and it leaves it feeling beautifully soft and smooth. It's super rich but doesn't feel greasy or weight the hair down and it smells absolutely amazing! And it's only £3 - say what?! 

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | Obviously I couldn't talk about my favourite budget picks and not mention this guy. I've found it really hard to find something similar to this at the drugstore and I probably won't any time soon. It's loaded with acids and works as a mask to gently exfoliate and leave my skin radiant and glowing. You only need to use it two-three times a week as it's quite a concentrated product but it's such a great little gem to have in your stash! 

Barry M Satin Superslick Lip Paint | Truffle Shuffle | I used to love this lipstick but sadly it melted and wasn't useable anymore so I finally repurchased it and I honestly don't know what I did without it! It's the ultimate pink-brown nude and the formula is so creamy and pigmented. This formula is quite glossy but it can be blotted for a beautiful matte finish. 

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + SPF30 | I always struggle to find a good moisturiser with sun protection but LRP has nailed this one! It's part of their Effaclar range so it still helps with imperfections and marks but now has UV protection - woo! The formula is super light and it absorbs in minutes making it a great base for makeup! I can't recommend it enough! 

Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer | C1 | You guys are probably sick of hearing me talk about this but it's become such a firm favourite! I use it under my eyes and on any imperfections and redness and it gives a beautiful smooth finish. They've recently bought out a supersize which I need to pick up asap! 

Eylure X Fleur De Force Brow Define | Medium | I'm super fussy when it comes to my brows and what I use to fill them in. So many products are either too dark, too warm or the completely wrong consistency but this is the best pencil I've found - especially for the price point! It comes with two shades which makes it really easy to get a defined brow that doesn't look one-dimensional. I've also found that the nib doesn't break off like a lot of the more expensive versions do! Win! 

Lush Lip Scrub | Honey | I don't like to spend a lot of money on lip products and when it comes to scrubs I don't think you can beat the Lush ones! The particles are just the right size to gently buff away any dry skin without being harsh or abrasive. I have the Honey scent which almost smells like vanilla candy canes - it's so good! I definitely need to get the Chocolate one next! 

The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer* | The majority of my primers focus on adding glow and radiance but this is the one I opt for if my skin is looking a bit shiny or I want to blur my pores. Unlike some other silicone products, it feels silky rather than powdery and my foundation applies really smooth over top. If you want a long-wearing base you have to try this! 

What are some of your favourite budget picks?

Maiya

x

• Monday, December 17, 2018

Budget Beauty Picks

Who doesn't love a good budget beauty buy? I personally find it much more exciting finding new products on the high-street as opposed to a luxury counter. I've recently discovered some amazing gems but I thought I would show you some of my old favourites too. Get ready to make a trip to Boots! 

Pantene 3 Minute Miracle Repair & Protect Conditioner | This is actually the product that inspired this blog post. I picked it up on a whim as I needed a new conditioner but it turned out to be a real winner. It feels like an expensive treatment but you use it everytime you wash your hair and it leaves it feeling beautifully soft and smooth. It's super rich but doesn't feel greasy or weight the hair down and it smells absolutely amazing! And it's only £3 - say what?! 

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | Obviously I couldn't talk about my favourite budget picks and not mention this guy. I've found it really hard to find something similar to this at the drugstore and I probably won't any time soon. It's loaded with acids and works as a mask to gently exfoliate and leave my skin radiant and glowing. You only need to use it two-three times a week as it's quite a concentrated product but it's such a great little gem to have in your stash! 

Barry M Satin Superslick Lip Paint | Truffle Shuffle | I used to love this lipstick but sadly it melted and wasn't useable anymore so I finally repurchased it and I honestly don't know what I did without it! It's the ultimate pink-brown nude and the formula is so creamy and pigmented. This formula is quite glossy but it can be blotted for a beautiful matte finish. 

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + SPF30 | I always struggle to find a good moisturiser with sun protection but LRP has nailed this one! It's part of their Effaclar range so it still helps with imperfections and marks but now has UV protection - woo! The formula is super light and it absorbs in minutes making it a great base for makeup! I can't recommend it enough! 

Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer | C1 | You guys are probably sick of hearing me talk about this but it's become such a firm favourite! I use it under my eyes and on any imperfections and redness and it gives a beautiful smooth finish. They've recently bought out a supersize which I need to pick up asap! 

Eylure X Fleur De Force Brow Define | Medium | I'm super fussy when it comes to my brows and what I use to fill them in. So many products are either too dark, too warm or the completely wrong consistency but this is the best pencil I've found - especially for the price point! It comes with two shades which makes it really easy to get a defined brow that doesn't look one-dimensional. I've also found that the nib doesn't break off like a lot of the more expensive versions do! Win! 

Lush Lip Scrub | Honey | I don't like to spend a lot of money on lip products and when it comes to scrubs I don't think you can beat the Lush ones! The particles are just the right size to gently buff away any dry skin without being harsh or abrasive. I have the Honey scent which almost smells like vanilla candy canes - it's so good! I definitely need to get the Chocolate one next! 

The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer* | The majority of my primers focus on adding glow and radiance but this is the one I opt for if my skin is looking a bit shiny or I want to blur my pores. Unlike some other silicone products, it feels silky rather than powdery and my foundation applies really smooth over top. If you want a long-wearing base you have to try this! 

What are some of your favourite budget picks?

Maiya

x

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There are so many of us out there who struggle to find the perfect shade of foundation. Whether you're an English rose or a dark-skinned beauty, the struggle is real. Considering my background my skin tone is surprisingly fair and I often find it difficult to find a base that matches both my face and neck and doesn't oxidize halfway through the day. Over the years I've tested a lot of foundations and I finally have a solid collection all with different finishes but most importantly that suit my ghostly skin!

The Ordinary Serum Foundation | 1.0N | I thought I'd start with the most affordable option as it's extremely hard to find a pale foundation for less than £10. This has been out for a while now but it's still one of my favourites. It has a medium-buildable coverage and a lovely satin finish that looks like skin. I tend to reach for this when I have a lot of redness as it's really concentrated and is great for evening out my skin tone. It comes in 21 shades so there should be a shade for everyone! 

EX1 Invisiwear Liquid Foundation | 1.0 | This has a slightly thicker formula but when blended out it looks like silk. The shade I have is fair with a yellow undertone which is great for counteracting redness and pigmentation. A little goes a long way and it has become my favourite foundation for when I want minimal effort but a flawless, polished finish. 

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream SPF50 | Fair | Obviously it wouldn't be right if I didn't include this gem. This was probably the first foundation I bought that actually matched my skin. It also has my favourite finish in the world and is the base I opt for 90% of the time. It helps even out my skin whilst still being really fresh and glowy and I love that it blurs my pores and imperfections without looking cakey. You need to try this if you haven't already! 

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick | Alabaster | I'm not a massive fan of stick foundations but I love the formula and finish of this, plus it's great if you have very fair skin. Bobbi Brown is one of the best brands for catering to a wide range of skin tones! I love how easy it is to build up the coverage or sheer it down depending on the finish you want. It's also perfect for travelling! 

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation | 110 | Everyone and their dad went on about this brand when it launched but I held back as I wanted to see what the majority of people thought before I purchased anything. The foundation has so many raved reviews but the main thing people were praising was the vast shade range. I have the second lightest shade and it's actually the only base that's ever been a tad too light for me! Once everything is blended in and set with powder it looks fine but if you are extremely fair (like paper white) then Fenty is the only way to go! Their Killawatt Highlighters are also stunning! 

Do you struggle to find the perfect foundation shade? 

Maiya

x

• Wednesday, December 12, 2018

The Best Foundations For Pale Skin

There are so many of us out there who struggle to find the perfect shade of foundation. Whether you're an English rose or a dark-skinned beauty, the struggle is real. Considering my background my skin tone is surprisingly fair and I often find it difficult to find a base that matches both my face and neck and doesn't oxidize halfway through the day. Over the years I've tested a lot of foundations and I finally have a solid collection all with different finishes but most importantly that suit my ghostly skin!

The Ordinary Serum Foundation | 1.0N | I thought I'd start with the most affordable option as it's extremely hard to find a pale foundation for less than £10. This has been out for a while now but it's still one of my favourites. It has a medium-buildable coverage and a lovely satin finish that looks like skin. I tend to reach for this when I have a lot of redness as it's really concentrated and is great for evening out my skin tone. It comes in 21 shades so there should be a shade for everyone! 

EX1 Invisiwear Liquid Foundation | 1.0 | This has a slightly thicker formula but when blended out it looks like silk. The shade I have is fair with a yellow undertone which is great for counteracting redness and pigmentation. A little goes a long way and it has become my favourite foundation for when I want minimal effort but a flawless, polished finish. 

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream SPF50 | Fair | Obviously it wouldn't be right if I didn't include this gem. This was probably the first foundation I bought that actually matched my skin. It also has my favourite finish in the world and is the base I opt for 90% of the time. It helps even out my skin whilst still being really fresh and glowy and I love that it blurs my pores and imperfections without looking cakey. You need to try this if you haven't already! 

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick | Alabaster | I'm not a massive fan of stick foundations but I love the formula and finish of this, plus it's great if you have very fair skin. Bobbi Brown is one of the best brands for catering to a wide range of skin tones! I love how easy it is to build up the coverage or sheer it down depending on the finish you want. It's also perfect for travelling! 

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation | 110 | Everyone and their dad went on about this brand when it launched but I held back as I wanted to see what the majority of people thought before I purchased anything. The foundation has so many raved reviews but the main thing people were praising was the vast shade range. I have the second lightest shade and it's actually the only base that's ever been a tad too light for me! Once everything is blended in and set with powder it looks fine but if you are extremely fair (like paper white) then Fenty is the only way to go! Their Killawatt Highlighters are also stunning! 

Do you struggle to find the perfect foundation shade? 

Maiya

x

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I love wearing eyeshadow in the winter time, it just pulls everything together and gives such a polished finish. I prefer a more subtle look but every now and then I'll add a bit of liner and lashes to glam it up. There are so many palettes and shades on the market but for me, you just can't beat a classic warm smokey eye - especially when paired with flushed cheeks and a nude lip. Bellissima! Today I thought I would share my current top three picks perfect for day or night.   

MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadows | Soba & Saddle | If you've been following my blog/Instagram for a while you'll know how much I love this duo. If you're ever wondering what's on my eyes nine times out of then it's this. Soba is a gorgeous mid-toned gold/brown with some gold shimmer and is perfect for that 'one-wash' eyeshadow look. I like to use this as a base all over my lid up to the crease and then I take Saddle which is a beautiful warm golden-brown and apply that over top. I could happily live the rest of my life with just these two eyeshadows! 

Charlotte Tilbury Exaggereyes Palette | This is slightly more neutral compared to the other two palettes but is equally as stunning. It has three eyeshadows and one pressed glitter and I love using this on a night out as the lights catch the sparkle so beautifully. I apply the rosy browns on the lid and outer corner (pretty standard) and then press the glitter down with my finger and it looks so pretty and angelic. If you don't already own a CT palette you need to get on it! 

Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat Palette | I'm absolutely obsessed with this beaut and I haven't even had it for that long. I wasn't very keen on the original Heat palette as it contained a lot of shimmers but this smaller version has five mattes and one satin. They're super pigmented and they blend like a dream. I also love that it's super compact and travel-friendly and I think the shade selection is spot on. I can't wait to start using this more! 

What's your current favourite eyeshadow palette? 

Maiya

x

• Saturday, December 08, 2018

Three Winter Eyeshadow Picks

I love wearing eyeshadow in the winter time, it just pulls everything together and gives such a polished finish. I prefer a more subtle look but every now and then I'll add a bit of liner and lashes to glam it up. There are so many palettes and shades on the market but for me, you just can't beat a classic warm smokey eye - especially when paired with flushed cheeks and a nude lip. Bellissima! Today I thought I would share my current top three picks perfect for day or night.   

MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadows | Soba & Saddle | If you've been following my blog/Instagram for a while you'll know how much I love this duo. If you're ever wondering what's on my eyes nine times out of then it's this. Soba is a gorgeous mid-toned gold/brown with some gold shimmer and is perfect for that 'one-wash' eyeshadow look. I like to use this as a base all over my lid up to the crease and then I take Saddle which is a beautiful warm golden-brown and apply that over top. I could happily live the rest of my life with just these two eyeshadows! 

Charlotte Tilbury Exaggereyes Palette | This is slightly more neutral compared to the other two palettes but is equally as stunning. It has three eyeshadows and one pressed glitter and I love using this on a night out as the lights catch the sparkle so beautifully. I apply the rosy browns on the lid and outer corner (pretty standard) and then press the glitter down with my finger and it looks so pretty and angelic. If you don't already own a CT palette you need to get on it! 

Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat Palette | I'm absolutely obsessed with this beaut and I haven't even had it for that long. I wasn't very keen on the original Heat palette as it contained a lot of shimmers but this smaller version has five mattes and one satin. They're super pigmented and they blend like a dream. I also love that it's super compact and travel-friendly and I think the shade selection is spot on. I can't wait to start using this more! 

What's your current favourite eyeshadow palette? 

Maiya

x

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I'm partial to a good primer, especially in the winter months when my skin is dry and lack-lustre. Whenever I see something aimed at glow or radiance I immediately add it to my basket so naturally, I've accumulated quite a few over the years. I know a lot of people try to achieve a beautiful dewy finish to combat the dehydration at this time of year so today I'm sharing my favourite picks for achieving luminous, glowing skin. 

L'Oreal Infallible Luminizing Primer | I discovered this earlier this year and it was the only primer I used for two months straight! Not only is it super affordable but it's also amazing at giving a glowing finish without being too glittery. It has a beautiful pearlescent sheen and paired with a dewy foundation it creates the perfect glowing base! 

Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base | This is my favourite pick for when my skin is looking a bit dry and dull and I don't want anything with a shimmer. It has a rich buttery texture that creates a gorgeous layer on the skin that helps your foundation look much more radiant and skin-like. A little goes a really long way and it makes a great moisturiser for those with a more oily skin!

MAC Strobe Cream | This probably isn't for someone with a lot of blemishes or texture but if you want a serious in your face glow, this is the one for you. It's very similar to the L'Oreal one but it's slightly more silver based and has a slightly thinner formula. I love using this all over my face for a real boost under my foundation but it also looks beautiful dabbed on the high points of the face for a 'dewy but not sweaty' glow.

Becca Backlight Priming Filter | I can't believe how long it took me to try this primer. It's one of those products you see in everyone's collection but never buy and then when you finally do you wonder how you ever lived without it! This is the more champagne/golden pick out of the bunch and it leaves the skin looking so fresh and radiant. I tend to mix this in with my light coverage bases as it gives that super healthy, polished skin without the need for highlighter! 

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter | The final pick is this beauty which is the newest to my stash but is probably the one that I use the most. It's a 3 in 1 product which can be used in many different ways but my personal favourite is applied to the cheekbones, nose and cupids bow after using my IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream for that plump, almost wet look. I have the shade 1 which is a gorgeous vanilla-champagne colour - I'm obsessed! 

What's your favourite primer for glowing skin?

Maiya 

x

• Saturday, December 01, 2018

Five Primers For Achieving A Winter Glow

I'm partial to a good primer, especially in the winter months when my skin is dry and lack-lustre. Whenever I see something aimed at glow or radiance I immediately add it to my basket so naturally, I've accumulated quite a few over the years. I know a lot of people try to achieve a beautiful dewy finish to combat the dehydration at this time of year so today I'm sharing my favourite picks for achieving luminous, glowing skin. 

L'Oreal Infallible Luminizing Primer | I discovered this earlier this year and it was the only primer I used for two months straight! Not only is it super affordable but it's also amazing at giving a glowing finish without being too glittery. It has a beautiful pearlescent sheen and paired with a dewy foundation it creates the perfect glowing base! 

Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base | This is my favourite pick for when my skin is looking a bit dry and dull and I don't want anything with a shimmer. It has a rich buttery texture that creates a gorgeous layer on the skin that helps your foundation look much more radiant and skin-like. A little goes a really long way and it makes a great moisturiser for those with a more oily skin!

MAC Strobe Cream | This probably isn't for someone with a lot of blemishes or texture but if you want a serious in your face glow, this is the one for you. It's very similar to the L'Oreal one but it's slightly more silver based and has a slightly thinner formula. I love using this all over my face for a real boost under my foundation but it also looks beautiful dabbed on the high points of the face for a 'dewy but not sweaty' glow.

Becca Backlight Priming Filter | I can't believe how long it took me to try this primer. It's one of those products you see in everyone's collection but never buy and then when you finally do you wonder how you ever lived without it! This is the more champagne/golden pick out of the bunch and it leaves the skin looking so fresh and radiant. I tend to mix this in with my light coverage bases as it gives that super healthy, polished skin without the need for highlighter! 

Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter | The final pick is this beauty which is the newest to my stash but is probably the one that I use the most. It's a 3 in 1 product which can be used in many different ways but my personal favourite is applied to the cheekbones, nose and cupids bow after using my IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream for that plump, almost wet look. I have the shade 1 which is a gorgeous vanilla-champagne colour - I'm obsessed! 

What's your favourite primer for glowing skin?

Maiya 

x

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It's the most wonderful time of the year... I can't tell you guys how excited I am for Christmas. The smells, the food, I'm ready for it all! I really enjoyed creating last year's gift guides and you seemed to find them quite helpful so I'm bringing them back and today I'm showing you some amazing stocking fillers. These are all the little side gifts that maybe aren't quite 'big' enough to be main presents but are still super cute and thoughtful!

I love buying stocking fillers as they tend to be more personal and unexpected than the bigger presents. Food gifts are a popular choice for obvious reasons but these new Galaxy Wafer Curls are much more exciting than a standard bar of chocolate. I have the Chocolate Creme option but there's also Hazelnut Creme which sounds dreamy! The re-sealable pouch makes them great for sharing too! Following on from sweet gifts I personally think you can't go wrong with a flavoured lip balm - this Reese's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup* offering smells incredible and is really moisturising! 

It can be slightly tricker when it comes to gifting beauty as everyone has different taste. If you have a friend or family member and you happen to know their favourite shade then a MAC Lipstick never fails to please! Or if you want to play things safe the Revlon Lash Glue and Happy Place Cosmetics Makeup Brush Cleanser are sure to go down a treat! I love receiving minis and gift sets and Clinique always have some amazing deals for xmas! The Moisture Surge range is my fave! The CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat* is another great option for any nail polish addict! 

My personal favourite stocking fillers are home/lifestyle goodies like this Matalan Marble Alphabet Coaster. It's so pretty and only costs £3 - bargain! Everyone loves to feel warm and cosy around this time of year and for me, The White Company Winter Candle just screams Christmas! I also think you can't go wrong with a cute set of pyjamas or some fluffy socks. Primark is amazing for little bits like that, their Pink Hearts Hot Water Bottle is one of the best purchases I've made this year! I've added some more ideas for inspiration below! 

Will you be doing stocking fillers this year?

Maiya

x

• Thursday, November 29, 2018

A Christmas Gift Guide - Stocking Fillers

It's the most wonderful time of the year... I can't tell you guys how excited I am for Christmas. The smells, the food, I'm ready for it all! I really enjoyed creating last year's gift guides and you seemed to find them quite helpful so I'm bringing them back and today I'm showing you some amazing stocking fillers. These are all the little side gifts that maybe aren't quite 'big' enough to be main presents but are still super cute and thoughtful!

I love buying stocking fillers as they tend to be more personal and unexpected than the bigger presents. Food gifts are a popular choice for obvious reasons but these new Galaxy Wafer Curls are much more exciting than a standard bar of chocolate. I have the Chocolate Creme option but there's also Hazelnut Creme which sounds dreamy! The re-sealable pouch makes them great for sharing too! Following on from sweet gifts I personally think you can't go wrong with a flavoured lip balm - this Reese's Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup* offering smells incredible and is really moisturising! 

It can be slightly tricker when it comes to gifting beauty as everyone has different taste. If you have a friend or family member and you happen to know their favourite shade then a MAC Lipstick never fails to please! Or if you want to play things safe the Revlon Lash Glue and Happy Place Cosmetics Makeup Brush Cleanser are sure to go down a treat! I love receiving minis and gift sets and Clinique always have some amazing deals for xmas! The Moisture Surge range is my fave! The CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat* is another great option for any nail polish addict! 

My personal favourite stocking fillers are home/lifestyle goodies like this Matalan Marble Alphabet Coaster. It's so pretty and only costs £3 - bargain! Everyone loves to feel warm and cosy around this time of year and for me, The White Company Winter Candle just screams Christmas! I also think you can't go wrong with a cute set of pyjamas or some fluffy socks. Primark is amazing for little bits like that, their Pink Hearts Hot Water Bottle is one of the best purchases I've made this year! I've added some more ideas for inspiration below! 

Will you be doing stocking fillers this year?

Maiya

x

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It's that time of year again when everyone is going crazy trying to find the perfect Christmas present for their friends and family but when Black Friday rolls around it's the perfect time to get what you need at a big discount. It's also a nice time to treat yourself to that new eyeshadow palette or limited edition candle you've had your eye on so whether you're looking for yourself or someone else here are my top beauty picks of the year! Happy shopping! 

Charlotte Tilbury | Starting with the queen of luxury, Charlotte currently has some amazing deals on her site with up to 40% off on some gorgeous products including a lip gloss trio, makeup duos and even a skincare kit that comes with a full-sized Magic Eye Rescue! You also receive a free Scent Of A Dream 30ml when you spend £75 so it's the perfect time to snag yourself a bottle! 

Kiehl's | I've really grown to love Kiehl's products this year and if you've been considering trying a couple bits from them or you're already a massive fan now is the time to place an order! If you purchase two or more products and use the code BLACKFRIDAY you get 20% off everything which is amazing! Their Ultra Facial Cream is a classic and is definitely worth checking out if you have dry skin! I'm really tempted to pick up the Glow Formula Skin Hydrator and Buttermask For Lips. 

Grow Gorgeous | My love affair for this brand is still going strong and the fact they currently have 50% off their entire range is very dangerous for my bank account. I love everything I've tried from them but their shampoos and treatments in particular always leave my hair in tip-top condition. If you want to try something from them I'd highly recommend their Hair Retreat R&R Routine Set and Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask Intense*. 

Beauty Bay | If you're looking for a one-stop shop then you need to check out the deals on the BB website! They have sales on pretty much every product you can think of including the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaisannce Palette, Ofra Cosmetics Highlighters and Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow! What are you waiting for? 

Mio Skincare | Like most people I'm definitely feeling the pressure of Christmas but I've been trying to step up my self-love game and Mio has been such a lifesaver for helping me de-stress. If you're more into bath and body bits then they're the place to go! They currently have 30% off all of their range including the Liquid Yoga Bath Soak which is literally heaven on earth. If you're lucky enough to have a bathtub I'd order a bottle or two! Their Future Proof Active Body Butter* is also in the sale as well as the Liquid Yoga Space Spray* which are two of my current pamper faves! Also if place an order this weekend be sure to use my code - MAIYAFRIDAY for an extra 5% off the whole site! You're welcome! 

Selfridges | I absolutely love shopping at Selfridges and this year they have 20% off everything when you use the code - SELFCCE at the checkout. It's the perfect place to get all of your presents in one whether you're buying beauty, style or home gifts. My top picks would be the Diptyque Vanille Scented Candle and Bobbi Brown Ready Set Glow Skincare Set.

Look Fantastic | This is one of my favourite places to shop online for beauty and I think they're probably the most versatile one out of the bunch! Their discount code BF25 will give you 25% off a wide range of brands including GHD, Clinique, NARS, Illamasqua and many, many more! It would a crime not to indulge! 

Will you be making the most of the Black Friday sales? 

Maiya

x

- some links are affiliate links

• Friday, November 23, 2018

The Black Friday Deals You Don't Want To Miss

It's that time of year again when everyone is going crazy trying to find the perfect Christmas present for their friends and family but when Black Friday rolls around it's the perfect time to get what you need at a big discount. It's also a nice time to treat yourself to that new eyeshadow palette or limited edition candle you've had your eye on so whether you're looking for yourself or someone else here are my top beauty picks of the year! Happy shopping! 

Charlotte Tilbury | Starting with the queen of luxury, Charlotte currently has some amazing deals on her site with up to 40% off on some gorgeous products including a lip gloss trio, makeup duos and even a skincare kit that comes with a full-sized Magic Eye Rescue! You also receive a free Scent Of A Dream 30ml when you spend £75 so it's the perfect time to snag yourself a bottle! 

Kiehl's | I've really grown to love Kiehl's products this year and if you've been considering trying a couple bits from them or you're already a massive fan now is the time to place an order! If you purchase two or more products and use the code BLACKFRIDAY you get 20% off everything which is amazing! Their Ultra Facial Cream is a classic and is definitely worth checking out if you have dry skin! I'm really tempted to pick up the Glow Formula Skin Hydrator and Buttermask For Lips. 

Grow Gorgeous | My love affair for this brand is still going strong and the fact they currently have 50% off their entire range is very dangerous for my bank account. I love everything I've tried from them but their shampoos and treatments in particular always leave my hair in tip-top condition. If you want to try something from them I'd highly recommend their Hair Retreat R&R Routine Set and Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask Intense*. 

Beauty Bay | If you're looking for a one-stop shop then you need to check out the deals on the BB website! They have sales on pretty much every product you can think of including the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaisannce Palette, Ofra Cosmetics Highlighters and Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow! What are you waiting for? 

Mio Skincare | Like most people I'm definitely feeling the pressure of Christmas but I've been trying to step up my self-love game and Mio has been such a lifesaver for helping me de-stress. If you're more into bath and body bits then they're the place to go! They currently have 30% off all of their range including the Liquid Yoga Bath Soak which is literally heaven on earth. If you're lucky enough to have a bathtub I'd order a bottle or two! Their Future Proof Active Body Butter* is also in the sale as well as the Liquid Yoga Space Spray* which are two of my current pamper faves! Also if place an order this weekend be sure to use my code - MAIYAFRIDAY for an extra 5% off the whole site! You're welcome! 

Selfridges | I absolutely love shopping at Selfridges and this year they have 20% off everything when you use the code - SELFCCE at the checkout. It's the perfect place to get all of your presents in one whether you're buying beauty, style or home gifts. My top picks would be the Diptyque Vanille Scented Candle and Bobbi Brown Ready Set Glow Skincare Set.

Look Fantastic | This is one of my favourite places to shop online for beauty and I think they're probably the most versatile one out of the bunch! Their discount code BF25 will give you 25% off a wide range of brands including GHD, Clinique, NARS, Illamasqua and many, many more! It would a crime not to indulge! 

Will you be making the most of the Black Friday sales? 

Maiya

x

- some links are affiliate links

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If you've been following my blog since the beginning you'll know that I'm obsessed with skincare. It was my original focus and even whilst studying Hair & Media Makeup in college I was always more interested in the skin prep. However, K-Beauty isn't something I'd ever really looked into until recently. By Wishtrend make quite a few different products and a few months ago they kindly sent me a couple bits to try out. I've also recently discovered Tonic15 which is an online store that houses some of the best Korean skincare brands around. I was lucky enough to attend their pop-up event last month and came away with a bunch of goodies which I've been testing and today I thought I would share my thoughts on everything. I think it's safe to say I've gone K-Beauty mad!

The first product from By Wishtrend is their Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water*, you all know I'm partial to using acids in my skincare routine but I'd never used anything Mandelic based before this but it's actually given me the best results out of all the acids I've tried! It's an Alpha Hydroxy Acid that works by sloughing away dead skin, helping to give a smoother, firmer appearance and also helps your serums and moisturisers penetrate better. I'm already two-thirds of the way through my first bottle and thankfully I have a back-up that's ready to go! The second product they sent me to try is the Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream* which is very different from anything I have in my collection. It's more of a balm than a moisturiser and it's specifically designed for stressed/sensitive skin and can even be used as an after sun. It has a beautiful almost buttery texture but it doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin. The jar looks quite small but a little goes a long way. The key ingredient is Guaiazulene which is extracted from Chamomile and has herbal properties that help calm inflammation and regenerate new skin cells. I have a lot of natural redness in my skin which often gets irritated but as soon as I apply this it looks instantly calmer and less aggravated. This is a must-have for anyone with sensitive skin! 

At the Tonic15 pop-up, I learnt about some amazing products but the one I was most excited to try was the May Coop Raw Sauce* which was recommended by both Jin (the founder of Tonic15 who's probably the sweetest woman I've ever met!) and Laura aka the product queen! It's a hydrating essence made with 93% Maple Tree Sap and it smells absolutely divine. It also contains Black Currant Fruit Extract which helps protect against free-radicals. I've been layering it under my serums and moisturisers and it's been amazing for amping up the glow and hydration as the temperature's dropped. You guys know I'm a sucker for cleansers and the Make P:rem Relief Moisture Cleansing Foam* has been my go-to for a quick morning cleanse. I'm not normally a big fan of foams but this cleans my skin without leaving it dry or taut. Hubby also likes this so it's a great one for the guys! I also have their Safe Me Relief Moisture Mask* which is rich is Nordic Berry Extract and Hyaluronic Acid which are both great for nourishing and soothing the skin. Who doesn't love a good sheet mask? The Klairs Gentle Black Sugar Facial Polish* has been on my wishlist for ages and I'm so excited to finally have it in my stash. As the name would suggest it's a physical exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and helps unclog pores and blackheads. It's also extremely nourishing and leaves the skin beautifully soft and hydrated. I originally thought it would smell sweet but it's quite fresh/herbal and the particles are just the right size. If you struggle with dull/dry skin I highly recommend checking this out! 

There were a few other K-Beauty distributors at the pop-up event and I actually met Michele, the founder of The Konjac Sponge Co which was so cool! I'd heard so many good things about their award-winning sponges and she even helped me find the right one for me and also gave me a little tutorial on how to use it. Konjac is 97% water, rich in minerals and is naturally alkaline so it leaves the skin perfectly balanced. I have the Mythical Dragon Konjac Face Sponge with Green French Clay* which is perfect for those with combination skin. I've been using it to cleanse and exfoliate and I'm really surprised at how gentle it is! It's 100% natural and can be used with or without a cleanser. I love using it in the morning as it gives an added massage which really helps de-puff and removes any dead skin. They also come in a super cute box with a hook so it's really easy to keep clean! 

Have you tried any K-Beauty yet? 

Maiya

x

• Tuesday, November 20, 2018

A Korean Beauty Skincare Round-Up

If you've been following my blog since the beginning you'll know that I'm obsessed with skincare. It was my original focus and even whilst studying Hair & Media Makeup in college I was always more interested in the skin prep. However, K-Beauty isn't something I'd ever really looked into until recently. By Wishtrend make quite a few different products and a few months ago they kindly sent me a couple bits to try out. I've also recently discovered Tonic15 which is an online store that houses some of the best Korean skincare brands around. I was lucky enough to attend their pop-up event last month and came away with a bunch of goodies which I've been testing and today I thought I would share my thoughts on everything. I think it's safe to say I've gone K-Beauty mad!

The first product from By Wishtrend is their Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water*, you all know I'm partial to using acids in my skincare routine but I'd never used anything Mandelic based before this but it's actually given me the best results out of all the acids I've tried! It's an Alpha Hydroxy Acid that works by sloughing away dead skin, helping to give a smoother, firmer appearance and also helps your serums and moisturisers penetrate better. I'm already two-thirds of the way through my first bottle and thankfully I have a back-up that's ready to go! The second product they sent me to try is the Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream* which is very different from anything I have in my collection. It's more of a balm than a moisturiser and it's specifically designed for stressed/sensitive skin and can even be used as an after sun. It has a beautiful almost buttery texture but it doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin. The jar looks quite small but a little goes a long way. The key ingredient is Guaiazulene which is extracted from Chamomile and has herbal properties that help calm inflammation and regenerate new skin cells. I have a lot of natural redness in my skin which often gets irritated but as soon as I apply this it looks instantly calmer and less aggravated. This is a must-have for anyone with sensitive skin! 

At the Tonic15 pop-up, I learnt about some amazing products but the one I was most excited to try was the May Coop Raw Sauce* which was recommended by both Jin (the founder of Tonic15 who's probably the sweetest woman I've ever met!) and Laura aka the product queen! It's a hydrating essence made with 93% Maple Tree Sap and it smells absolutely divine. It also contains Black Currant Fruit Extract which helps protect against free-radicals. I've been layering it under my serums and moisturisers and it's been amazing for amping up the glow and hydration as the temperature's dropped. You guys know I'm a sucker for cleansers and the Make P:rem Relief Moisture Cleansing Foam* has been my go-to for a quick morning cleanse. I'm not normally a big fan of foams but this cleans my skin without leaving it dry or taut. Hubby also likes this so it's a great one for the guys! I also have their Safe Me Relief Moisture Mask* which is rich is Nordic Berry Extract and Hyaluronic Acid which are both great for nourishing and soothing the skin. Who doesn't love a good sheet mask? The Klairs Gentle Black Sugar Facial Polish* has been on my wishlist for ages and I'm so excited to finally have it in my stash. As the name would suggest it's a physical exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and helps unclog pores and blackheads. It's also extremely nourishing and leaves the skin beautifully soft and hydrated. I originally thought it would smell sweet but it's quite fresh/herbal and the particles are just the right size. If you struggle with dull/dry skin I highly recommend checking this out! 

There were a few other K-Beauty distributors at the pop-up event and I actually met Michele, the founder of The Konjac Sponge Co which was so cool! I'd heard so many good things about their award-winning sponges and she even helped me find the right one for me and also gave me a little tutorial on how to use it. Konjac is 97% water, rich in minerals and is naturally alkaline so it leaves the skin perfectly balanced. I have the Mythical Dragon Konjac Face Sponge with Green French Clay* which is perfect for those with combination skin. I've been using it to cleanse and exfoliate and I'm really surprised at how gentle it is! It's 100% natural and can be used with or without a cleanser. I love using it in the morning as it gives an added massage which really helps de-puff and removes any dead skin. They also come in a super cute box with a hook so it's really easy to keep clean! 

Have you tried any K-Beauty yet? 

Maiya

x

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I introduced acids into my skincare routine quite early on when I think back. I didn't actually know I was using them until way later when I actually knew what they were but around the age of fifteen Salicylic Acid was a massive part of my skincare routine. Since then I've discovered more advanced formulas and a wide range of products including serums, masks and even cleansers that are extremely effective but don't leave the skin feeling completely stripped. There are so many types from AHAs and BHAs to PHAs and many more and I know it can be a little overwhelming and scary knowing where to start so I'm going to run you through my top picks and tell you which ones are best for which skin concern. Get comfy, it's about to get technical!  

Glycolic Acid | This is probably the most popular offering and whilst it does do its job extremely well, I've found it to be a little too much for my skin (more on that later). Derived from Sugar Cane it is the smallest molecule of the AHA family meaning it's able to penetrate much deeper and breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells helping to increase cell turnover and even out the skin tone. I have a few Glycolic bits in my stash, the most used being the Pixi Glow Tonic which has been a go-to of mine for years as it's alcohol-free and enriched with Aloe Vera to keep the skin calm and hydrated. They also have an amazing Glow Mud Cleanser with 5% Glycolic and Glow Peel Pads which are much stronger than the tonic at a massive 20%! Alpha H Liquid Gold is another cult classic and is great if you have a slightly more mature skin and your main concerns are pigmentation, sun damage and ageing in general. I also love the Superdrug Naturally Radiant Glycolic Acid Peel which contains 1.4% Glycolic but is still super effective. I like to use it as a night-time serum to gently exfoliate and reveal brighter, healthier skin the next morning. It's also an absolute bargain at £5.99! The key thing to remember with acids but particularly Glycolic is to build up your tolerance and always wear SPF in the day! 

Salicylic Acid | I've used Salicylic for years and it tends to be the one I reach for when I have a lot of breakouts and congestion. It's usually derived from Willow Bark and is oil soluble making it ideal for people with oily/acneic skin. If you get blackheads, whiteheads or just clogged pores, in general, this is the acid to go for as it helps dissolve the dirt and unclog after just one use. I recently discovered the Caudalie Vinopure Blemish Control Infusion Serum which contains 100% natural Salicylic Acid, Grape Polyphenols and Organic Essential Oils. It has a beautifully thin, non-greasy texture that absorbs straight away, it also smells really fresh (thanks to the Peppermint Oil). I've been using it for a good couple months now and I've noticed a massive improvement in the congestion around my nose and chin and my skin also feels a lot smoother and more refined. If you prefer a physical exfoliator I've also been loving the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant* which is a finely milled powder than gently buffs and polishes helping to unclog pores and reveal smooth soft skin!

Mandelic Acid | This is a relatively new ingredient to me but out of all the acids I've tried this is definitely my top pick. It's an AHA that comes from almonds, but it has much bigger particles than others so it takes longer to penetrate the skin. This makes it slightly gentler and I've found that my skin really prefers it to Glycolic as I get less irritation and redness and also find the results last a lot longer. My favourite product is the By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water* because it helps resurface, removes dead skin cells and gives me a lovely healthy glow. I also love that it's fat-soluble as it makes it another great option for those with super oily skin without being harsh or stripping. 

Lactic Acid | I've only tried a couple of formulas that contain Lactic but it's probably my second favourite pick. Naturally derived from milk, it works to dissolve the 'glue' between cells helping to gently slough away the dead skin that causes a dull, rough complexion. It's another gentle option and is perfect if you want to introduce yourself to acids and have a normal/dry skin. A little while ago I finished up a whole bottle of The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% and apart from the weird smell it did an amazing job of exfoliating and refining my skin's texture. I used it as a day-time serum and it sat beautifully under my moisturisers and the Hyaluronic Acid helped my skin stay soft and plump! Another fave is The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution which is an intense exfoliating treatment formulated primarily with Salicylic and Lactic so it's great for congestion, breakouts and dull skin that needs a boost. You only need to use it once/twice a week as a mask and I would recommend holding back from exfoliating every day when using this! 

And there you have a quick round-up of my favourite acids and what they do! I always notice a massive difference in my skin when I don't use acids and I highly recommend looking into them if you have any of the skin concerns I've mentioned! 

What's your favourite acid/product?

Maiya

x

• Thursday, November 15, 2018

Acids In Skincare | What They Do & My Top Picks

I introduced acids into my skincare routine quite early on when I think back. I didn't actually know I was using them until way later when I actually knew what they were but around the age of fifteen Salicylic Acid was a massive part of my skincare routine. Since then I've discovered more advanced formulas and a wide range of products including serums, masks and even cleansers that are extremely effective but don't leave the skin feeling completely stripped. There are so many types from AHAs and BHAs to PHAs and many more and I know it can be a little overwhelming and scary knowing where to start so I'm going to run you through my top picks and tell you which ones are best for which skin concern. Get comfy, it's about to get technical!  

Glycolic Acid | This is probably the most popular offering and whilst it does do its job extremely well, I've found it to be a little too much for my skin (more on that later). Derived from Sugar Cane it is the smallest molecule of the AHA family meaning it's able to penetrate much deeper and breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells helping to increase cell turnover and even out the skin tone. I have a few Glycolic bits in my stash, the most used being the Pixi Glow Tonic which has been a go-to of mine for years as it's alcohol-free and enriched with Aloe Vera to keep the skin calm and hydrated. They also have an amazing Glow Mud Cleanser with 5% Glycolic and Glow Peel Pads which are much stronger than the tonic at a massive 20%! Alpha H Liquid Gold is another cult classic and is great if you have a slightly more mature skin and your main concerns are pigmentation, sun damage and ageing in general. I also love the Superdrug Naturally Radiant Glycolic Acid Peel which contains 1.4% Glycolic but is still super effective. I like to use it as a night-time serum to gently exfoliate and reveal brighter, healthier skin the next morning. It's also an absolute bargain at £5.99! The key thing to remember with acids but particularly Glycolic is to build up your tolerance and always wear SPF in the day! 

Salicylic Acid | I've used Salicylic for years and it tends to be the one I reach for when I have a lot of breakouts and congestion. It's usually derived from Willow Bark and is oil soluble making it ideal for people with oily/acneic skin. If you get blackheads, whiteheads or just clogged pores, in general, this is the acid to go for as it helps dissolve the dirt and unclog after just one use. I recently discovered the Caudalie Vinopure Blemish Control Infusion Serum which contains 100% natural Salicylic Acid, Grape Polyphenols and Organic Essential Oils. It has a beautifully thin, non-greasy texture that absorbs straight away, it also smells really fresh (thanks to the Peppermint Oil). I've been using it for a good couple months now and I've noticed a massive improvement in the congestion around my nose and chin and my skin also feels a lot smoother and more refined. If you prefer a physical exfoliator I've also been loving the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant* which is a finely milled powder than gently buffs and polishes helping to unclog pores and reveal smooth soft skin!

Mandelic Acid | This is a relatively new ingredient to me but out of all the acids I've tried this is definitely my top pick. It's an AHA that comes from almonds, but it has much bigger particles than others so it takes longer to penetrate the skin. This makes it slightly gentler and I've found that my skin really prefers it to Glycolic as I get less irritation and redness and also find the results last a lot longer. My favourite product is the By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water* because it helps resurface, removes dead skin cells and gives me a lovely healthy glow. I also love that it's fat-soluble as it makes it another great option for those with super oily skin without being harsh or stripping. 

Lactic Acid | I've only tried a couple of formulas that contain Lactic but it's probably my second favourite pick. Naturally derived from milk, it works to dissolve the 'glue' between cells helping to gently slough away the dead skin that causes a dull, rough complexion. It's another gentle option and is perfect if you want to introduce yourself to acids and have a normal/dry skin. A little while ago I finished up a whole bottle of The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% and apart from the weird smell it did an amazing job of exfoliating and refining my skin's texture. I used it as a day-time serum and it sat beautifully under my moisturisers and the Hyaluronic Acid helped my skin stay soft and plump! Another fave is The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution which is an intense exfoliating treatment formulated primarily with Salicylic and Lactic so it's great for congestion, breakouts and dull skin that needs a boost. You only need to use it once/twice a week as a mask and I would recommend holding back from exfoliating every day when using this! 

And there you have a quick round-up of my favourite acids and what they do! I always notice a massive difference in my skin when I don't use acids and I highly recommend looking into them if you have any of the skin concerns I've mentioned! 

What's your favourite acid/product?

Maiya

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A lot of new products have made their way into my stash over the past couple of months and I've had so much fun testing them out and switching up the items in my daily routine. I tend to save up and treat myself to a little haul towards the end of every month but I've also received some lovely PR packages so today I thought I would show you all of the new goodies I'm currently working my way through!

Grow Gorgeous Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask* | It's no secret that I'm partial to a bit of GG haircare. Their shampoos and conditioners are some of my favourites as they clean and nourish the hair without being stripping or causing irritation. I also love using their treatments when my hair is feeling blah and needs an extra boost. Recently my main aim is hydration and this mask is perfect for deeply nourishing and thickening the hair without being heavy or leaving a residue. It also smells incredible! 

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation | This foundation is completely different to anything else I've tried in terms of formula and finish and while it's taking me some getting used to so far I'm really liking it! The packaging is very sleek and luxurious which I'm definitely a fan of but I would be a little cautious while travelling! I can't properly test it out right now as I have a lot of dry flaky skin which unfortunately this clings to like a b*tch but once it's gone I'm going to start using this as my everyday base! The full review is coming soon! 

Makeup Revolution Fast Base Concealer | You all know I have a love affair with this brand and their Conceal & Define Concealer so it was only natural I try their latest addition. To me, this is very Charlotte Tilbury 'inspired' but I can't say 100% as I haven't tried her Magic Away Concealer yet. I've only swatched it on my hand but the texture felt really smooth and easy to work with. It feels slightly thinner and a little drier compared to my fave C&D but I think that might make it a better option for under the eyes. I'll let you know my thoughts once I've been able to fully test it out! 

Butter London Patent Shine 10x Nail Lacquer & Original Nail Lacquer* | I'm not a big nail polish user (mainly because I can't paint my nails to save my life) but I do still get intrigued by the popular brands and seasonal collections. I was kindly sent these two Butter London shades to try and the quality and formula are so different from other brands I've tried! They apply super smoothly and have a beautiful opaque finish which means you don't need to faff around applying 100 coats! Fancy is a lovely mauvey-purple which is really shiny and great for autumn and Come To Bed Red is literally Christmas in a bottle! I can't stop wearing them! 

Milk Makeup Charcoal Cleanser | If you follow me on Instagram you would've seen me posting about this about a month or so ago. Milk Makeup is an American beauty brand that is currently unavailable in the UK so you can imagine how excited I was to find it in TK Maxx for £6.99! I don't have any other charcoal based cleansers in my collection right now so I thought this would be a nice little addition. It has a light gel texture and I like to use it as a morning or second cleanse by applying it to dry skin, adding a touch of water and massaging it through. You can splash off but I tend to use a flannel. I've only tested it a few times but so far me likey! 

Merumaya Bi-Phase Plus Eye Makeup Remover | This is another little gem I found in TK Maxx on sale for £3! Yes - three tiny pounds! I love their Melting Cleansing Balm and have been lusting after their toners for ages but this is something I couldn't pass up. Now obviously I'm not a massive eye makeup/waterproof wearer but I really like dual-phase oil and water formulas and for the price, I knew I had to give it a go! 

Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream with Active HydraMesh Technology* | I have to say I'm really enjoying Dermalogica products at the moment. Everything is super effective and their packaging is so user-friendly! This is the new reformulated version of their classic Skin Smoothing Cream* and in my opinion is 100x better! I do like the original but I've found this one is so much more hydrating and my skin feels a lot smoother and plumper when I use it. It's ever so slightly richer but still feels moisturising without being heavy or greasy. My foundation also sits beautifully on top of this so it's definitely one to consider if you like a fresh, well-hydrated base! 

Have you tried any of these products recently?

Maiya 

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• Sunday, November 11, 2018

The New Beauty Bits I'm Currently Testing

A lot of new products have made their way into my stash over the past couple of months and I've had so much fun testing them out and switching up the items in my daily routine. I tend to save up and treat myself to a little haul towards the end of every month but I've also received some lovely PR packages so today I thought I would show you all of the new goodies I'm currently working my way through!

Grow Gorgeous Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask* | It's no secret that I'm partial to a bit of GG haircare. Their shampoos and conditioners are some of my favourites as they clean and nourish the hair without being stripping or causing irritation. I also love using their treatments when my hair is feeling blah and needs an extra boost. Recently my main aim is hydration and this mask is perfect for deeply nourishing and thickening the hair without being heavy or leaving a residue. It also smells incredible! 

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation | This foundation is completely different to anything else I've tried in terms of formula and finish and while it's taking me some getting used to so far I'm really liking it! The packaging is very sleek and luxurious which I'm definitely a fan of but I would be a little cautious while travelling! I can't properly test it out right now as I have a lot of dry flaky skin which unfortunately this clings to like a b*tch but once it's gone I'm going to start using this as my everyday base! The full review is coming soon! 

Makeup Revolution Fast Base Concealer | You all know I have a love affair with this brand and their Conceal & Define Concealer so it was only natural I try their latest addition. To me, this is very Charlotte Tilbury 'inspired' but I can't say 100% as I haven't tried her Magic Away Concealer yet. I've only swatched it on my hand but the texture felt really smooth and easy to work with. It feels slightly thinner and a little drier compared to my fave C&D but I think that might make it a better option for under the eyes. I'll let you know my thoughts once I've been able to fully test it out! 

Butter London Patent Shine 10x Nail Lacquer & Original Nail Lacquer* | I'm not a big nail polish user (mainly because I can't paint my nails to save my life) but I do still get intrigued by the popular brands and seasonal collections. I was kindly sent these two Butter London shades to try and the quality and formula are so different from other brands I've tried! They apply super smoothly and have a beautiful opaque finish which means you don't need to faff around applying 100 coats! Fancy is a lovely mauvey-purple which is really shiny and great for autumn and Come To Bed Red is literally Christmas in a bottle! I can't stop wearing them! 

Milk Makeup Charcoal Cleanser | If you follow me on Instagram you would've seen me posting about this about a month or so ago. Milk Makeup is an American beauty brand that is currently unavailable in the UK so you can imagine how excited I was to find it in TK Maxx for £6.99! I don't have any other charcoal based cleansers in my collection right now so I thought this would be a nice little addition. It has a light gel texture and I like to use it as a morning or second cleanse by applying it to dry skin, adding a touch of water and massaging it through. You can splash off but I tend to use a flannel. I've only tested it a few times but so far me likey! 

Merumaya Bi-Phase Plus Eye Makeup Remover | This is another little gem I found in TK Maxx on sale for £3! Yes - three tiny pounds! I love their Melting Cleansing Balm and have been lusting after their toners for ages but this is something I couldn't pass up. Now obviously I'm not a massive eye makeup/waterproof wearer but I really like dual-phase oil and water formulas and for the price, I knew I had to give it a go! 

Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream with Active HydraMesh Technology* | I have to say I'm really enjoying Dermalogica products at the moment. Everything is super effective and their packaging is so user-friendly! This is the new reformulated version of their classic Skin Smoothing Cream* and in my opinion is 100x better! I do like the original but I've found this one is so much more hydrating and my skin feels a lot smoother and plumper when I use it. It's ever so slightly richer but still feels moisturising without being heavy or greasy. My foundation also sits beautifully on top of this so it's definitely one to consider if you like a fresh, well-hydrated base! 

Have you tried any of these products recently?

Maiya 

x

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So it's been a minute since my last monthly favourites and I'm not really sure why but today I'm bringing them back! Recently I've been venturing out a bit more with my beauty purchases and have added some new brands/products into my daily routine. They've all received my seal of approval so today I thought I would show you all of the bits I've been loving over the past few weeks! 

Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Booster* | I've realized that I only really tend to get blemishes around that time of the month and when I do they're a right pain but this booster has been amazing for speeding up the healing process and stopping them becoming more inflamed. Salicylic Acid kills bacteria that causes spots and Niacinamide reinforces the skin's defence barrier and helps even out skin tone. It has a thin serum like texture and is completely clear so no-one will know you've got it on. How amazing is that?

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel | I mentioned this in my Morning Skincare Routine post last month and it's still the product I've been reaching for the most. Sometimes oil based cleansers can be a little heavy for everyday use but this leaves my skin feeling beautifully clean and soft with no greasy film. The Pumpkin Enzymes help gently exfoliate while Vitamins C & E restore and nourish the skin. I've only had it a few months and I'm already nearly halfway through it! 

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer | Chantilly | It was hard to decide whether to include this or my trusty Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer but I've included the NARS one as it's slightly more natural and not as thick. It's not as 'radiant' as they claim but it still has a beautiful satin finish that you can leave or set depending on your skin type. I also love the subtle yellow undertone it has as it makes it perfect for concealing redness/discolouration! 

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick | Pillow Talk | I think every CT fan will tell you that once you try one of her lipsticks, there's no turning back. I don't how what it is about this formula but it gives you the smoothest/plumpest pout whilst still being matte and hydrating! I need some new shades asap! If you have any suggestions holla at me! 

Nivea Sun UV Face Sunscreen Shine Control SPF 50* | We all know we're supposed to apply SPF all year round but during the winter months, it can be really off-putting having a thick, gloopy cream sitting on your face. If I don't get sun protection from my foundation I love using this new mattifying lotion from Nivea. It has such a lovely texture that doesn't disrupt makeup and has the classic scent which always perks me up and makes me think of Summer! 

Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter Duo | Lightning Dust & Fire Crystal | If I said this was the most intense, wet looking, dreamiest highlighter I've ever used I'd be seriously understating! There was so much hype around this brand and particularly these duos when they first launched but at the time I wasn't very interested. Fast forward a year later and I'm completely obsessed! It's obvious by now that I'm into the glowy look and a mix of these shades dusted on the cheekbones, cupids bow and nose will make you look angelic!

Gosh Cosmetics Velvet Touch Lip Liner | Nougat Crisp | This has been one of my favourite lip pencils for years. It has just the right amount of pink and brown and helps define and shape the lips without being too noticeable against my fair skin. The texture is super smooth and easy to apply and it lasts a lot longer than others I've tried. And it's only £4.99 - bargain! 

Have you tried any of these products recently? 

Maiya 

x

• Thursday, November 08, 2018

October Favourites

So it's been a minute since my last monthly favourites and I'm not really sure why but today I'm bringing them back! Recently I've been venturing out a bit more with my beauty purchases and have added some new brands/products into my daily routine. They've all received my seal of approval so today I thought I would show you all of the bits I've been loving over the past few weeks! 

Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Booster* | I've realized that I only really tend to get blemishes around that time of the month and when I do they're a right pain but this booster has been amazing for speeding up the healing process and stopping them becoming more inflamed. Salicylic Acid kills bacteria that causes spots and Niacinamide reinforces the skin's defence barrier and helps even out skin tone. It has a thin serum like texture and is completely clear so no-one will know you've got it on. How amazing is that?

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel | I mentioned this in my Morning Skincare Routine post last month and it's still the product I've been reaching for the most. Sometimes oil based cleansers can be a little heavy for everyday use but this leaves my skin feeling beautifully clean and soft with no greasy film. The Pumpkin Enzymes help gently exfoliate while Vitamins C & E restore and nourish the skin. I've only had it a few months and I'm already nearly halfway through it! 

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer | Chantilly | It was hard to decide whether to include this or my trusty Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer but I've included the NARS one as it's slightly more natural and not as thick. It's not as 'radiant' as they claim but it still has a beautiful satin finish that you can leave or set depending on your skin type. I also love the subtle yellow undertone it has as it makes it perfect for concealing redness/discolouration! 

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick | Pillow Talk | I think every CT fan will tell you that once you try one of her lipsticks, there's no turning back. I don't how what it is about this formula but it gives you the smoothest/plumpest pout whilst still being matte and hydrating! I need some new shades asap! If you have any suggestions holla at me! 

Nivea Sun UV Face Sunscreen Shine Control SPF 50* | We all know we're supposed to apply SPF all year round but during the winter months, it can be really off-putting having a thick, gloopy cream sitting on your face. If I don't get sun protection from my foundation I love using this new mattifying lotion from Nivea. It has such a lovely texture that doesn't disrupt makeup and has the classic scent which always perks me up and makes me think of Summer! 

Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter Duo | Lightning Dust & Fire Crystal | If I said this was the most intense, wet looking, dreamiest highlighter I've ever used I'd be seriously understating! There was so much hype around this brand and particularly these duos when they first launched but at the time I wasn't very interested. Fast forward a year later and I'm completely obsessed! It's obvious by now that I'm into the glowy look and a mix of these shades dusted on the cheekbones, cupids bow and nose will make you look angelic!

Gosh Cosmetics Velvet Touch Lip Liner | Nougat Crisp | This has been one of my favourite lip pencils for years. It has just the right amount of pink and brown and helps define and shape the lips without being too noticeable against my fair skin. The texture is super smooth and easy to apply and it lasts a lot longer than others I've tried. And it's only £4.99 - bargain! 

Have you tried any of these products recently? 

Maiya 

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I love beauty at this time of year. All of the Autumn collections have launched and we're surrounded by berry lips and smoldering eyes - it instantly makes me think of Sarah from Hocus Pocus! Even though I'm not the most experimental person when it comes to my makeup I still have so much fun discovering new faves around this time of year. My skin is also a lot more manageable during the colder months so I have the chance to add more products to my routine. Every four-ish months I like to put together a little selection of my top picks for that season and today I'm showing you what made the cut for Autumn! 

Charlotte Tilbury Bigger Brighter Eyes | Exaggereyes Palette | I love doing a soft, blown out smokey eye in Autumn and although I don't go that intense I still like to use warm browns to help draw attention to my eyes. This quad has three dreamy eyeshadows and a pressed glitter which looks stunning on the lids! I love everything about this from the formula to the pigmentation, unfortunately, it was a limited edition and isn't available anymore but Charlotte has quite a few other ones that are similar! 

OUAI Texturising Hair Spray* | I hardly ever bother with styling products but this is something I use every time I do my hair. It adds texture without being greasy or sticky which is a big pet peeve of mine and is amazing at keeping my hair in place all day - especially if I've straightened it! I have the travel size and I'm still not even half way through it! It smells amazing too! 

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick | Recently I'm enjoying keeping my base really fresh and this foundation has been my go-to as it gives me a good medium-buildable coverage but still lets my skin show through. Once I've finished my skincare routine I apply it in sections, buffing with a brush as I go. The finish is seriosuly beautiful! 

Glossier You | Who remembers when I used to rave about this? It feels like years ago since this came out but it hasn't actually been that long. This will always be in my top three perfumes, one because it reminds me of good times but also because the scent is so subtle and creamy. It's such a weird scent to describe but it's perfect for anyone who just likes to smell 'good'! My review. 

Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Matte Lip in Berry-Much | This is currently the only dark lip in my collection but it's the only one I've found where I like both the texture and colour. It's a true purple-pink berry shade and I love that it injects a bit of warmth into the face rather than just making me look ghostly. Love! 

Illamasqua Colour Veil Blush in Tonic* | A few weeks ago I attended the launch event for Illamasqua's new studio in Box Park (which is beautiful by the way) and I got a sneak peek at some of their stunning new products. I have such a big love for this brand as it's one of the first ones I tried back when I wanted to be a makeup artist. I'd only ever used their primer and foundation but at the studio, I got to try their new jelly blushers which have the coolest texture! The shade I have is quite peachy and gives a gorgeous flush if you're fair like me. If you like a creamier formula when it comes to cheek products you have to check these out! 

Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto Replenishing Hydrator | I've wanted to try this moisturiser for such a long time as my skin is constantly craving hydration and this seems to be the favourite for everyone. The packaging is so pretty (you all know I love anything pink) but more importantly this is a brilliant moisturiser for anyone with dry/dehydrated skin. It has a cream-gel texture which feels super light-weight and leaves my skin feeling beautifully soft and hydrated without being greasy. It's perfect for underneath makeup too! 

What are you current Autumn beauty picks?

Maiya 

x

• Monday, October 29, 2018

Autumn Beauty Picks

I love beauty at this time of year. All of the Autumn collections have launched and we're surrounded by berry lips and smoldering eyes - it instantly makes me think of Sarah from Hocus Pocus! Even though I'm not the most experimental person when it comes to my makeup I still have so much fun discovering new faves around this time of year. My skin is also a lot more manageable during the colder months so I have the chance to add more products to my routine. Every four-ish months I like to put together a little selection of my top picks for that season and today I'm showing you what made the cut for Autumn! 

Charlotte Tilbury Bigger Brighter Eyes | Exaggereyes Palette | I love doing a soft, blown out smokey eye in Autumn and although I don't go that intense I still like to use warm browns to help draw attention to my eyes. This quad has three dreamy eyeshadows and a pressed glitter which looks stunning on the lids! I love everything about this from the formula to the pigmentation, unfortunately, it was a limited edition and isn't available anymore but Charlotte has quite a few other ones that are similar! 

OUAI Texturising Hair Spray* | I hardly ever bother with styling products but this is something I use every time I do my hair. It adds texture without being greasy or sticky which is a big pet peeve of mine and is amazing at keeping my hair in place all day - especially if I've straightened it! I have the travel size and I'm still not even half way through it! It smells amazing too! 

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick | Recently I'm enjoying keeping my base really fresh and this foundation has been my go-to as it gives me a good medium-buildable coverage but still lets my skin show through. Once I've finished my skincare routine I apply it in sections, buffing with a brush as I go. The finish is seriosuly beautiful! 

Glossier You | Who remembers when I used to rave about this? It feels like years ago since this came out but it hasn't actually been that long. This will always be in my top three perfumes, one because it reminds me of good times but also because the scent is so subtle and creamy. It's such a weird scent to describe but it's perfect for anyone who just likes to smell 'good'! My review. 

Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Matte Lip in Berry-Much | This is currently the only dark lip in my collection but it's the only one I've found where I like both the texture and colour. It's a true purple-pink berry shade and I love that it injects a bit of warmth into the face rather than just making me look ghostly. Love! 

Illamasqua Colour Veil Blush in Tonic* | A few weeks ago I attended the launch event for Illamasqua's new studio in Box Park (which is beautiful by the way) and I got a sneak peek at some of their stunning new products. I have such a big love for this brand as it's one of the first ones I tried back when I wanted to be a makeup artist. I'd only ever used their primer and foundation but at the studio, I got to try their new jelly blushers which have the coolest texture! The shade I have is quite peachy and gives a gorgeous flush if you're fair like me. If you like a creamier formula when it comes to cheek products you have to check these out! 

Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto Replenishing Hydrator | I've wanted to try this moisturiser for such a long time as my skin is constantly craving hydration and this seems to be the favourite for everyone. The packaging is so pretty (you all know I love anything pink) but more importantly this is a brilliant moisturiser for anyone with dry/dehydrated skin. It has a cream-gel texture which feels super light-weight and leaves my skin feeling beautifully soft and hydrated without being greasy. It's perfect for underneath makeup too! 

What are you current Autumn beauty picks?

Maiya 

x

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