COMPETITION: 'London Beauty Box' Makeup Storage System

February 9, 2014, 7:06 pm

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As a beauty blogger, makeup storage is always an issue. My bedroom is pretty much covered in lipgloss and my office is full of overflowing boxes of products waiting to be filed away, leading me to constantly faff around trying to find the one thing I need. Until recently I'd been relying on ill-fitting Muji storage boxes to get me through, but they're neither appropriately sized for makeup or easy to manoeuvre. Although they're pretty lightweight, that does leave them susceptible to tipping over or not stacking properly - I'm forever picking makeup off the floor or chucking it in random cosmetic bags just to get it out of the way. A lot of those problems are now out the window, thanks to a new storage unit from London Beauty Box which holds all your makeup in one place with ease.

These acrylic boxes have been specifically designed to hold makeup, ensuring all four drawers are the appropriate dimensions to hold exactly what you need. There's a large, two medium and a small drawer in each unit, all of which contain a removable separator in the middle. Although I was sceptical when I first started filling these up with my makeup collection, they actually hold a hell of a lot of product. I've got my entire collection in two of these, minus eyeshadow palettes and nail varnish, which made about ten Muji boxes completely redundant! They're sturdy, they look great and they keep everything tidied away in one place - bonus.

If you're a makeup enthusiast and struggle holding your collection in one place, then this could be the solution for you. The only downside is these aren't cheap: each full unit will set you back £120.00. However, you can grab 15% off with the code 'London15' at the checkout if you do decide to take the plunge, plus there's free delivery to anywhere in the UK. I do think they're great, but I would like to see versions in different sizes as well as reduction in the overall cost - these are unfortunately out of a lot of budgets! If you'd love one of these in your bedroom or bathroom, but can't quite stretch to £120.00, then you're in luck... I have one of these London Beauty Boxes up for grabs! For your chance to win just enter via the widget below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Valentines Day: Gifts For The Special Lady In Your Life

February 10, 2014, 1:30 am

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Gents, this one's for you. Ladies, this is one blog post to subtly leave on your laptop while your man is in the same room. If you hadn't already noticed, there's only a few days to go until that dreaded date when everything turns a shade of pink and people you thought knew better start declaring their undying love in cringe worthy ways. Valentines Day is nearly upon us once again! I don't know about you, but teddy bears, chocolates and roses are all very well and good, but they're not very creative and don't serve a purpose past midnight on the 14th. Giving a thoughtful and useful gift can earn you serious brownie points, so here are my suggestions for fabulous gifts this Valentines.

Something Scented
Perfume may be a cliche, but if you buy your loved one a fragrance with some extra punch it'll definitely get you in the good books. I love Marc Jacobs' fragrances, and this new Eau So Fresh Daisy Delight scent is a classic. Light enough to be worn daily and fresh enough to be worn all year round, it's a universal scent that will satisfy all fragrance needs - plus it looks blooming awesome. If you'd rather stay away from the obvious, why not buy your lady a beautiful scented candle instead? A great candle will provide hours of delicate scent and create a relaxing atmosphere in your home, perfect for a Valentines night in. I love this citrus blend from Espa, which contains refreshing Peppermint, revitalising Eucalyptus and a crisply energising dash of Lime.

Something Red
An extravagant red lipstick is timeless and the epitome of elegance. A premium brand of red lipstick will always offer something a little more exotic and worthy of a special occasion, making it a great gift. I love Yves Saint Laurent lipsticks because of their fabulous gold packaging and long-lasting colour, but this limited edition red lip from Lipstick Queen is equally as luxurious thanks to its vintage-inspired case. If you're not sure what colour to go for, then blue-based cherry colours work great for pale skin, while raspberry and orange-based reds work well for darker skin tones.

Something Polished
If your lady is as obsessed with nail varnish as I am, then a thoughtful addition to her collection could be more welcome than another ill-fitting lacy pair of knickers. Ciate offer a fabulous range of unusual glitter polishes, as well as some classic nude shades that will take her through to summer. Nailberry are a new brand that only carry a spectrum of berry shades, their formulas being free from nasties and long-lasting too. You can't go wrong with Nails Inc either; their gel polishes are a great gift idea, especially as she'll want her manicure to last the whole Valentines weekend.

Something Lippie 
Lulu Guinness is most well known for her lip-shaped bags and purses, which are timeless while still being fun. Why not get your loved one Lulu's sweet and handy lip-shaped coin purse, that also doubles up as a lipstick holder? This one is currently available via Clinique for £55.00, all of the profits going to Great Ormond Street Hospital. Although they're not cheap, they're great quality and will be treasured for years to come. You may even get a massive kiss of thanks for it too!

I hope that's given you a little inspiration, or even whet an appetite for a self-indulgent purchase. Who needs a man when you've got a credit card and a Sex & The City boxset?

How To Wear It: Pantone of the Year 'Radiant Orchid'

February 10, 2014, 7:27 pm

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For the last fourteen years Pantone have annually announced their colour of the year, which influences a range of trends for the coming twelve months. With inspirations drawn from the worlds of art, fashion, interiors and beauty, 2014 has been hailed as the year of Radiant Orchid - and it's the perfect shade for stepping into spring. Described as a colour which “blooms with confidence and magical warmth, that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination,” Radiant Orchid combines fuchsia, purple and pink for a bold and beautiful shade that exemplifies everything fresh and expressive about the months following on from a cold and bleak winter. From nails and lips, to eyeshadows and cheek stains, there are so many ways to inject hints of Radiant Orchid into your day to day life. Spring might seem a little way off, but there's not reason not to add this pretty purple breath of fresh air to your makeup bag right now.

Nails always strike me as the first place to add a spot of colour to a beauty routine. It's so easy to change nail varnish, and I always think a girl's nails say a lot about her mood and style. There's no need to surf the web with the pantone Radiant Orchid (18-3224) colour swatch in hand. So many pinks and purples encompass the trend, but these statement shades are so Radiant Orchid it almost hurts - they're definitely my favourites. I love Essie's 'Under Where' and 'Jamaica Me Crazy', as well as Orly's 'Frolic' and Maybelline's 'Purple Gem'. (Don't forget to add an undercoat if you're opting for a deep nail colours like these, so you don't end up with any staining.)

One of my New Year's resolutions was to wear lipstick more often, so I'm all about scouting out alternative colours to wear this springtime. Like nails, I find lips are a great place to play around with colour, but I tend to favour the lighter shades of Radiant Orchid rather than the darker, vampy look. I love the showstopping shade of Hourglass 'Femme Rouge', the simple fuscia shade of Bourjois' Colour Boost Lip Crayon, Stila's 'Stay All Day' Lip Lacquer and Givenchy's Beauty Rouge Interdit Satin Lipstick. These would look great on an otherwise nude face.

I'm often a bit wary of brightly coloured eyeshadow, for fear of looking like I've just stepped out of the 80's, but the gentle shades of Pantone's pick are actually perfect if used in moderation. Avoid looking like you've had a run in with a boxer by using pretty palettes such as Guerlain's classic four colour combination and Lancôme's 'Hypnôse Drama Eyes Palette' in Violet Magnetique. Combine pink and purple together to create the perfect pantone shade, and a shade that works for your complexion. Opting for darker shades will help your eye colour to pop and prevent you from looking blurry eyed.

Expect to see a whole load more of Radiant Orchid over 2014 as this trend takes over our High Street. How will you be wearing the trend next season?

Written by Alice-May Purkiss
@alicemaypurkiss

NEW From Pixi: Shea Butter LipBalms

February 11, 2014, 2:29 am

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With the wind, rain and snow battling across the country right now, it's more important than ever to keep out lips hydrated and luscious. Although little pots can provide a hit of moisture, they're not exactly glove or on-the-train-appropriate; sticks of balm make lip maintenance much easier, and these new little balms from Pixi even add a touch of colour. Infused with shea butter to provide a smooth and nourishing application experience, the balms are comfortable to wear and glide onto the lips with ease. The touch of colour in the balm is relatively subtle, providing a tint to the lip rather than a full-on lipstick effect, ensuring these are great for use all day every day.

Unlike a lot of tinted balms, which compromise on moisture to inject the colour, these are still extremely nourishing and don't feel any different from a non-tinted balm. There's no grittiness or drag on the lips when you apply, with lips feeling comfortable until the balm wears off. I love the little tubes that remind me of Parisian macaroon shop Laduree too; the packaging is great quality and contains a little safety click to ensure the cap is secure and will protect your balm. The two colours I have provide a bright pink and berry shade, but there will also be a subtle orange and lots of nudes to choose from when these launch in a few weeks. These are fab little finds and great for weather like this, when you need a colour hit but just can't face putting on a full lipstick look.

The new Pixi lipbalms are available from the end of February, online and in their boutiques, priced £8.00 each.

Blog Advice 101: #2 How To Grow Your Audience

February 11, 2014, 7:41 pm

≫ Next: NEW: Aquafresh High Definition (HD) Toothbrush & Paste

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In the first of my blog advice posts I covered the top tips for setting yourself up as a beauty blogger. If you've got your site and it's full of great posts, you've got all your social channels manned and branded, then how do you actually grow an audience of people who will engage with you and read your content? Without an audience your blog could just sit on the internet becoming another unloved site that's yearning for attention. Although there's no magic formula or way of becoming the Next Big Thing, there are a few things you can do to make an impact and to set yourself up to win. Here are my top tips for growing your audience...

Produce Good Content 
Although this technically isn't directly related to growing an audience per se, without great content that is sharable and provides insight or opinion, you won't get very far. If you just wack something up on your site for the sake of it, or swatch a new lipstick and say 'oooh pretty' then your readers will get bored very quickly. Ensure every piece you write provides something worth reading: whether it's an opinion piece on what's going on in the industry, an explanation of the latest trends, or five different ways you can wear the new MAC eyeshadow. If you're writing about the same product as 50 other people, how can you make your piece different and how can you find a unique angle? Making your content great will naturally make it shareable, which in turn will bring new readers to your blog.

Use Social Platforms Regularly
Twitter, Facebook and Instagram should be used, without a doubt, as an extension of your blog. Readers don't just want to read your posts; they want to know and understand the person behind them. Tweeting what you're doing on the bus may sound boring, but it provides commentary and insight behind the blog and makes you more relatable. Snapping pictures of your beauty collection, what's new in Boots or your Starbucks provides a conversation starting point too - give potential readers something to question you about or to get involved with. When starting out it's best to adopt a few social networks that you can utilise and manage effectively, rather than trying to run seven at once. This will also allow you to dedicate more time to them, getting involved with conversations, rather than panicking that you haven't uploaded anything to Google+ in three days.

Become An Information Source 
One of the easiest ways to grow an audience is to become an information source that people go to for advice and support. Maybe you want to become an expert in hair, or the one that knows about what the celebrities wore to the latest film premier. Perhaps you want to have all the news on what product launches when and where you can get it from... What you're an information source in doesn't matter, as long as you continue to push it out to people that want to see it. (I like to talk about new products, celebrities that have been signed by brands, offers, events and beauty news.) Sharing photos and links also encourages people to like, favourite or retweet your content too. Your social channels shouldn't be completely self-indulgent, so make sure you're giving something back and giving a reason for people to follow.

Monitor And Use Hashtags 
Hashtags aren't just for Twitter anymore - they're used across other social platforms such as Facebook and Instagram too. Monitoring hashtags that are used will give you an indication of what conversations are happening, what people are searching for and what can open doors to new fans. Popular twitter hashtags include #bbloggers and #fbloggers, which readers and brands often search to find new and interesting content. If you're on Instagram, search for popular topics such as #TBT (Throwback Thursday) which encourage users to upload different types of content and discover new accounts to follow. If you share a photo, make sure you hashtag it with around five different descriptions, (i.e. #makeup #nailart #LFW) to enable your content to be discovered. Twitter parties or chats also open a lot of doors to other bloggers and brands, so keep your eyes peeled for scheduled slots where you can take part.

Offer Competition Prizes
It's a cliche, but it works. People love winning things and it ensures your site is extremely shareable. Offering a handpicked selection of goodies or something limited edition will get your audience excited and keen to share. There are plenty of handy tools, such as Rafflecopter, that help you run competitions and can also encourage people to follow you on multiple social platforms as an entry mechanic. Although competitions are a great way to get attention, the key is not to turn into a spammy site that's just offering free stuff for the sake of it. It may be that you tried a new mascara that you loved and therefore want to give five away; it may even be that you've collated your favourite products from the last three months into a hamper for a reader to win. A lot of brands are also willing to offer competition prizes free of charge to support a review, so why not ask one of your favourites if they'd be willing to donate something that can be given away to a reader?

These are just a few ways in which you can grow an audience, but there are so many more. Do you have any top tips on growing a blog audience? Next in the series: Managing Your Social Media.

(Missed the first post? Check out 'How To Start A Beauty Blog'.)

NEW: Aquafresh High Definition (HD) Toothbrush & Paste

February 12, 2014, 1:30 am

≫ Next: LBQ's Top Three: Lipglosses

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The world has gone HD mad. With the introduction of HD television, we're more and more concerned about having a high definition makeup finish and ensuring we look as flawless as possible... But HD-Ready toothpaste? Aquafresh will always be the brand that made toothpaste fun, with their iconic adverts encouraging all the family to get involved; the triple-action stripe of colour is still their defining feature, but they're continually innovating and producing dental products that meet the needs of an ever-evolving consumer in 2014. With the launch of this High Definition toothpaste and brush, they claim to provide three times better whitening and an illuminating effect to help teeth glow - something that's becoming an essential part of any beauty routine.

The new toothpaste contains Aquafresh's unique ultra-fine Illumipearls technology, which starts removing stains and polishing the surfaces of your teeth from the first brush. It claims to give you up to three times better whitening vs an ordinary toothpaste too, helping your gnashers to look their best. The complimentary toothbrush contains a flexible head, soft bristles that get to work without causing discomfort and a perfectly-shaped head to get around your teeth effectively. I really like Aquafresh toothpaste anyway, but this leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh, while teeth are left smooth and sparkling. I'm not so sure that this will give you Simon Cowell coloured teeth, but it may help to start budging irritating coffee stains from the surface and prevent more extreme measures.

Personally I haven't noticed any difference, but I'm always happy to upgrade to a whitening version of a toothpaste just in case. As for the 'high definition' claim, I do always love to see brands innovating and tapping into trends and this is definitely a new one on the toothpaste market for me. As we're always striving for perfection and demanding more and more from our products, this HD toothpaste falls right into our hands and will no doubt be super popular amongst a community of tooth-obsessed beauty lovers. Would you give HD toothpaste a go?

The Aquafresh HD toothpaste is available now priced £3.49 for a 75ml tube.

LBQ's Top Three: Lipglosses

February 12, 2014, 7:43 pm

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I've fallen a little out of love with gloss recently, preferring to favour a tinted lip balm or go full-on with a bold and bright lipstick. Whereas I used to adore stocking up on glosses and buying every single brand I could get my hands on, now I prefer to invest wisely and use gloss as a way of brightening my complexion or adding texture to an otherwise matte look. Although there are hundreds of different glosses available, my favourites tend to be at the more expensive end of the spectrum (as they provide shine without an overly sticky sensation.) However, there's nothing wrong with stocking up on some cheap and cheerful alternatives to chuck in your bag and ensure you're always prepared for a gloss emergency. Here are my top three lipglosses...

1. Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector (£17.00)

This softly tinted gel-like gloss is perfect for wearing every day and every night. The squeezable tube and delicate foam applicator make it easy to apply and minimise wastage, preventing overloading the lips with product. The shine is delicate, the result being a subtle gloss that helps to brighten the face and make lips look kissable. It's not super sticky either, so your hair won't get stuck to your face as soon as the wind blows! My ultimate favourite and one I buy again and again.

2. Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Volupte (£21.00)
This new launch replaces their previous gloss incarnation that has always been a firm favourite of beauty enthusiasts, editors and makeup artists alike. Now in an even more beautiful pack, the classic YSL gloss provides high shine and pigment without overloading the lips. The new ergonomic applicator is shaped perfectly to the lips for precise application, while the delicate sweet scent makes this a gloss to treasure. They may be pricey, but nothing feels better than a YSL gloss. 

3. Rimmel Vinyl Gloss (£4.99)
If you want a cheap and cheerful gloss that does what it says on the tin, you can't go wrong with the classic Vinyl Gloss from Rimmel. Available in 16 shades, it gives a glossy lacquer to lips and even injects them with a little moisture thanks to the inclusion of shea butter. This isn't too sticky, and it's not heavy on the wallet either - it's a great gloss to buy when you want to test a new colour, or simply are running low of glosses to choose from.

Which are your favourite lipglosses? 

Last Minute Valentines Gifts: Love-ly Bath Time With Lush!

February 13, 2014, 1:30 am

≫ Next: Super Saver Skincare: Top Buys For Under A Fiver

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If you're a guy in a panic, then don't worry: I'm here to help. Time nearly be up for you to get your loved one a fabulous Valentines gift, but if you're still wandering the streets empty handed then get yourself to a Lush boutique pronto! Always a brand to rely on when in desperate need of inspiration, Lush has lots of lovely love-inspired treats this Valentines that will get you out of a sticky situation and into the good books. Not only do they have pre-wrapped gifts containing everything your lady needs to relax, pamper herself and emerge from the bathroom smelling divine, but there are plenty of token gifts and bath bombs that you can both enjoy... Wink wink.

If your lady friend is a fan of the seasonal Snow Fairy shower gel (it's pink and smells of sweeties if you're not sure,) then they'll be certain to love this romantic alternative. Prince Charming shower gel is made from marshmellow root and pomegranate juice, making it smell like burnt marshmellows and fruity hot drinks; it's amazing. If your loved one likes bath time more than most, then why not grab her one of these epic Love Locket bath bombs? It's gigantic and holds a secret suprise of another teeny bath bomb and heart-shapped confetti for a Valentines appropriate dip.

If you're too late to even bother wrapping a gift, then the Lush 'Lots of Love' box contains five products all pre-wrapped in a fabulous looking package. Containing a bottle of Prince Charming shower gel, Sex Bomb bath bomb, love heart soap, R'Os Argan body contioner and massage bar, it's a bargain at £24.95 and will save you a lot of grief. My personal favourite is the Toucan Love package, which contains the beautiful heart-shaped Titsy Toasty bath bomb (based on a Medieval love potion,) made with seven rosebuds to provide a delicately comforting scent. There's also a Close To You massage bar, so you can massage your loved ones worries away and make up for the fact you forgot to order the roses. 

Even if you're not romantically involved, then these bath time treats still provide a girl with a few moments of pure relaxation. They're all scented with uplifting and comforting ingredients that would be complemented perfectly with a bottle of rose and a copy of The Notebook. Even better is that you can probably grab these at a heavily discounted price from next week... And chuckle to yourself about the suckers in love that paid full price.

The Prince Charming shower gel starts from £4.65 for 100ml; Love Locket bath bomb £6.95; Lots Of Love gift set £24.95; Toucan Love gift set £10.95. 

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Super Saver Skincare: Top Buys For Under A Fiver

February 14, 2014, 4:50 am

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So we all made it through January hopefully unscathed, but our wallets are still sobbing from being in a post-Christmas splurging state. In order to combat this I’ve come up with an edit of essential skincare bits that will help your complexion through these winter months, but thankfully each of my picks costs under a fiver. Sometimes there are fab products out there that don't require a second mortgage, but they often go unnoticed because of their simplicity or price point. This February I'm introducing you to four of my favourites...

I’m sure you have heard all of the hype surrounding L'Oreal’s Skin Perfection Micellar Solution, and I think that those of you who’ve tried it will agree with me when I say that it's fabulous. It doubles up as both a makeup remover and a cleanser, doing the trick for me on most days. At £4.99 it’s an absolute steal and does last a while too – a bottle has seen me through around six weeks (taking into account I use two generous squeezes, twice a day). It’s usually on offer too, which explains why I have two fresh bottles waiting to be used in my beauty drawer.

The Tea Tree Toner Water from Lush is one of my all time favourite products for acne-prone skin, and one that really helped improve my complexion when it was at its worst. Although targeted to people suffering with acne, I’d consider this product to be an all-rounder; delivering a refreshing, cool spritz when needed, and the guarantee that you will smell mighty fine, makes it a must-have. As for how it helps the skin, I found that this reduces any tightness post-cleansing and acts as a great primer for moisturiser. The small 100g bottle costs £3.95 and is great value, lasting me a number of months before I upgraded to the larger 250g bottle (£7.50.)

The first moisturiser I truly loved using, and the one I always find myself going back to, is Simple’s Hydrating Light Moisturiser. There’s not much I can say about this that hasn’t already been raved about already, but it really is great. It provides just enough moisture to the skin without being overwhelming and/or suffocating, suiting a whole range of skin types and even you oily-skinned girls. At £3.99 it's such a bargain too, especially for a bottle which seems to last forever. One warning I must add, though – be careful as you squeeze the product out of this; too much force when squeezing could result in literal explosions.

When it comes to deep cleansing, I always head straight to Biore’s Warming Anti-Blackhead Cleanser. It's bright blue and quite unusual; I find an injection of colour into my routine is always refreshing and helps to keep me focused. It is thick and quite sticky (which some may feel uncomfortable with,) but if you’re up for colour and a generous dose of watermelon scent, this one’s a winner. At £4.99 this is at the upper end of my 'under-a-fiver' edit, but it deserves to be here nonetheless. The money doesn’t go to waste by any means – a deep cleanse once a week will have this lasting a couple months or so, with your skin feeling incredibly soft afterwards.

So there you go – my small selection of inexpensive skincare goodies. Have you tried any of these before? If so, what did you think of them?

Written by Thalia Fairweather
@thalialucyf

Blog Advice 101: #3 How To Manage Your Social Media

February 14, 2014, 6:30 am

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A blogger's social media and blog presence are now interchangeable. Whereas previously a Twitter or Instagram account was an 'additional extra' for bloggers, they're now an essential extension of your online presence. Bloggers offer insight and commentary that is immediate and shareable; we're on the front line, backstage at Fashion Week, at the product launches and out on the streets.  Therefore developing a strong social presence is an essential part of our offering, especially if you want to grow your audience and work with brands. Readers want to know more about you, find out what goes on 'behind the scenes' of your site and find out news before anyone else; there's no better place to bring this to life than through your social media accounts. However, managing multiple accounts and nurturing them to success can be both time consuming and confusing. How do you manage them effectively and ensure they're representing you as a blogger in the know?

Choose Your Channels Wisely
There are so many social channels now available, offering different benefits and opportunities, so it's essential to pick the ones that are relevant to you and your blog. Twitter and Instagram are a must for everyone, as they're easy to navigate and provide endless networking opportunities through the open nature of their platforms. However, other networks may also offer a unique way of talking to your audience - Pinterest is great for sharing imagery and inspiration if you're a fashion or food blogger, whereas YouTube is fantastic for sharing stories or showing how products work if you're a beauty or lifestyle blogger. Pick the ones that are right for you and you have time to manage, rather than trying to do too much too soon.

Set Yourself Some Guidelines
Although social media can provide an invaluable insight and extension of your blog presence, it can also be your downfall. Like anything in life, there's always a line that some have a tendency to cross. Set yourself some guidelines around what you will and won't discuss online, as well as personal details that you will and won't share. Everything you share online can be easily accessed by an employer or future partner, so think before you type. Sharing personal opinions is one thing, but ensure those opinions aren't offensive or aggressive - many bloggers have been disciplined at work or struggled to gain employment because of their over-zealous online presence; others have had brands back out of contracts or simply choose not to work with them as they don't reflect their values. Be careful. 

Create Content Pillars 
What do you want your channels to represent? What areas of beauty, fashion or lifestyle are you most interested in and what do your readers respond to? Writing a list of key areas you want to curate content around will help you manage and grow your online presence, giving you direction when you're struggling to be creative. Use these to fill your social channels with great content and ensure you're regularly talking about these topics.

Schedule Your Content
Nobody expects you to be online all day, every day - but your readers are. Scheduling content is a great way of ensuring your pages are populated with great stuff, without you spending your life glued to a keyboard. There are great tools that allow you to upload pictures and updates to channels including Twitter, Facebook and Google+ on whatever day (and whatever time) you choose. Some popular ones include Tweetdeck and Hootsuite, but Facebook even has their own scheduling capabilities built into their site.

Be Reactive
The brilliance of social media is that it allows you to be reactive and respond to news immediately. If there's something happening right now, start tweeting about it. Have images just been released of the newest L'Oreal collaboration? Start pinning and Instagramming them. There's little point in sharing something that has been shared a million times in the last three days, so ensure you're always on the look-out for new information that's relevant to your audience.

Ensure You're Approachable 
There's nothing worse than a blogger just producing content and never speaking to their audience. Your audience makes you, so it's essential that you're approachable and respond to questions or comments. I hate it when I tweet some of the very well established bloggers and never hear a peep out of them in return; not every tweet requires a reply, but every so often you may just make someones day. One of the reasons I love Susie Bubble is that she frequently reads new blogs and shares great content, as well as having conversations she doesn't know on Twitter; she doesn't have to, but it illustrates she's in touch with the people that are reading her site.

Do you have any top tips on managing social channels? Next in the series: How To Work With PRs & Brands.

(Missed the first posts? Check out 'How To Start A Beauty Blog' and 'How To Grow Your Audience'.)

Tria Beauty: Truly Effective Home Laser Hair Removal

February 14, 2014, 6:30 am

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Hair removal is a topic that I've covered many times on LBQ and it always generates the same reaction; body hair (and therefore hair removal) is a hot topic. The industry is worth billions of pounds globally and makes promises it quite often can't keep. Body hair has been the topic of many a documentary (including one where Cherry Healey investigated a group of women who have chosen to remain as nature intended, regardless of the social stigma,) and insights a huge amount of discussion online during any given day. It seems the majority of us have a hate-hate relationship with the hair that sprouts from our legs, armpits, lady parts and even faces. I've been lucky enough to have inherited the fine hair gene, which leaves my body hair pretty minimal and my issues pretty insignificant; however, I do have a few stray hairs on my stomach that have caused me great embarrassment and my armpit hair seems to grow at the speed of light. Although I'm fortunate enough not to suffer from facial hair, dark arm hair or fuzzy legs, it's the little things for me that make the difference between laughing and sulking. As a result, I've been putting Tria Beauty's home laser hair removal system to the test.

Tria Beauty offers the first and only clinically-proven cordless laser system available for home use; the system uses the same diode laser technology used by dermatologists in salons and spas, making this one of the most effective devices currently available. It works by a laser permanently disabling the hair follicle and preventing it from re-growing another hair in the future, targeting the melanin at the root without damaging the surrounding skin. Unlike a lot of IPL machines and 'hot wire' devices (such as No-No) which simply singe the hair at the surface and provide only temporary results, the Tria Beauty system actually stops the hair follicle working from the root. This means the hair will fall out and simply not re-grow.

The cordless system is incredibly easy to use, requiring a simple skin test before you can unlock the laser and start the treatment. (You just place the base of the unit on the area of skin you want to treat, it scans and beeps to confirm it's an appropriate skin colour and type.) This removes the uncertainty of reading instructions and attempting to match your skin tone to a coloured box or picture; you can be 100% certain that you're absolutely fine to treat the area before you begin. You can adjust the strength settings via the click of a button too, ensuring that you build your way up from a lower intensity to a stronger one as your threshold or requirement changes. I've been using this on setting three or four and it's hardly noticeable, but still provides the results I want. Seeing as there's only one button, there's no complex instructions to follow or need to get yourself in a tizz - it's really the most simple electronic device I've ever used.

As the device is handheld, you just aim the little circular laser to where you want to focus, ensure it's touching the skin and press the button. The laser will give off a short pulse of light, which may cause a very quick stinging sensation when you first use it. However, as you get used to it the discomfort decreases and you're able to blast the area with as many pulses as you require. The key is to overlap the area to ensure you're getting all the hairs, keeping track of the number of pulses thanks to the handy counter on the Tria unit display. Before you commence your treatment you do have to shave, clean and dry the area to ensure the root (not the hair itself) absorbs the light and the treatment is most effective; you only have to repeat the treatment every two weeks for around three months (ensuring you target all the hairs, regardless of their life cycle,) for maximum results.

Having used this for the last couple of months, I couldn't be more pleased with the results. I've been using the Tria on my random stomach hairs, as well as on both armpits, every two weeks for only around ten minutes. The treatment integrated into my routine seamlessly and didn't even take up a huge proportion of my time - just the way I like it. After a couple of months the hairs around my stomach have completely disappeared, while my armpit hair is a lot thinner and requires shaving only half the amount it used to. I'm seriously chuffed. Tria's laser hair removal system is so easy to use, relatively pain-free and seriously effective, making embarrassing and uncomfortable hair a thing of the past... In under three months.

If you're concerned or embarrassed about unwanted hair and are in need of a solution, then Tria really could be the place to look. Although these devices aren't cheap (around £375,) they're totally worth it to rid yourself of unecessary worry. A full treatment at a clinic would probably cost around ten times this amount, but by investing in a Tria device you get to keep it forever at a fraction of the cost. It's suitable for use anywhere from the nose down, making it a multifunctional product that will save you a lot of money in the long run - especially if you decide to share the use with a friend or loved one. Although there are a lot of hair removal systems on the market, this one is super easy, practical and doesn't require an engineering degree to work it.

The Tria Beauty hair removal system is available to buy online via Selfridges, RRP £375.00. For more information on Tria, have a look at their website.

NEW From Nivea: Powder Touch 48hr Anti-Perspirant

February 16, 2014, 6:14 am

≫ Next: COMPETITION: Get Great Volume With 'KeraFiber' Hair Building Fibers

≪ Previous: Tria Beauty: Truly Effective Home Laser Hair Removal

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Deodorant may not be the top of our list when it comes to a Saturday afternoon beauty purchases, but without a reliable and subtle scented tube, tin or bottle we're all definitely left feeling a little uncomfortable. I'm very loyal to my deodorant brands and formulas, having previously suffered from burns and irritation that have left my armpits uncomfortable and red for days, but this new collection from Nivea is definitely being added to my 'nice' list. Powder Touch is a new collection of 48hr anti-antiperspirants that have a delicate scent that reminds me of baby powder and clean cotton sheets; the fragrance combines the classic scents of Rose and Lily of the Valley to ensure it's extremely comforting and universally approved.

Available in a cream, liquid or spray format to ensure your preference is catered for, the formula is ultra-light and contains the natural mineral Kaolin Powder, known for its soft and absorbent qualities. The formulas dry practically instantaneously, leaving your underarms feeling soft, smooth and protected. There's no sticky feeling and I'm left feeling prepared for everything the day has in store for me, removing the worry of becoming hot and bothered. I personally prefer the cream from the trio available, it being comparable to the Dove sticks I've been using for at least five years, and will definitely be re-purchasing this when I next need to stock up on essentials. As for the 48hr claim - I honestly hope I never have to put that to the test!

Find out more about Powder Touch on the Nivea website. Available now from £2.10 in all Boots, Superdrug and supermarkets.

COMPETITION: Get Great Volume With 'KeraFiber' Hair Building Fibers

February 17, 2014, 2:06 am

≫ Next: Rita Ora For Rimmel London: Her Debut Nail Varnish Collection

≪ Previous: NEW From Nivea: Powder Touch 48hr Anti-Perspirant

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Having a thin, lifeless and limp head of hair can have a profound impact on your confidence. The relationship we have with our hair and our appearance is much more than superficial, a weekly trip to the hairdresser having been proved to help cancer patients experiencing chemotherapy feel better and more positive. I've always had naturally thin hair, which has led me to spend an incredible amount of money searching for a solution. Although shampoos, conditioners, treatments and styling products can provide temporary lift and volume, they don't provide a long-lasting result and can often require a huge amount of time investment. KeraFiber is a simple and effective solution that not only offers an answer to those suffering thinning hair, but those of us that simply want a solution to our volume woes.

KeraFiber Hair Building Fibres are made using a natural organic protein (the same protein that our hair is made of,) which intertwine with your natural hair and bond securely with the use of static electricity. All you have to do is shake on the fibers to the base of your scalp, wherever they're needed, and set with the hold spray to keep them in place. The fibres are extremely fine and are available in nine different colours to ensure they're as natural (and as invisible,) as possible - they're completely undetectable once you apply them. There's no stickiness or heaviness on the head, just added volume and a subtle hit of colour that gives the illusion of a thicker head of hair. (Have a look at the incredible 'before and after' pictures on their website which show off this product far better than I ever could...)

I've been trying the Auburn fibres and they're great for adding extra 'voom' when I need it most. They're so easy to apply and don't even cause a mess, making them perfect for using daily or even just on nights out when you want to create the illusion of Kim Kardashian hair. The Fiber Hold Spray is light too, meaning you don't even have to adjust your usual styling routine or product portfolio. Unlike a lot of other volume dusts that simply create volume through sticky fibres that actually just cause a mess, the KeraFiber fibres provide a simple solution that can be easily integrated into our routines. To remove the fibres you simply wash them away (there's also a handy shampoo and conditioner for extra care within the KeraFiber range) and re-apply when you next style. Simple.

If you want to give them a go then I've got a 6 month supply to give away to one lucky person. The prize consists of three bottles of the KeraFibre fibers of your choice, plus a Hold Spray, shampoo and conditioner to maintain your newly voluminous hair. Worth £115.70, this is definitely a prize
worth nabbing! To win this bumper pack of goodies, just enter via the widget below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is a commissioned post on behalf of KeraFiber.

Rita Ora For Rimmel London: Her Debut Nail Varnish Collection

February 17, 2014, 1:30 am

≫ Next: Blog Advice 101: #4 How To Work With PR's & Brands

≪ Previous: COMPETITION: Get Great Volume With 'KeraFiber' Hair Building Fibers

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Rimmel seem to be great at identifying the celebrities and influencers who are 'of the moment' and would make the perfect brand ambassador. They've signed up the iconic Kate Moss, of-the-moment Lily Cole, front row regular Georgia May Jagger and even pop princess Sophie Ellis-Bextor, but now it's the turn of singer Rita Ora. Known for her love of bold makeup and daring outfits, as well as her relationships and best buddies, Rita is definitely a great ambassador for a brand celebrated for their bright colours and London inspiration. Although her debut collection doesn't launch until March, I've got a sneak preview of all twelve colours of nail varnish that will be hitting stores in four weeks.

Consisting of classics, bold colours and on-trend pastels, there's definitely something for everyone within this collection. The pink, red and dark red offer a twist on a classic shade, while the bright blue, punchy orange and spring-appropriate turquoise provide a hit of colour to a monochrome outfit. My favourites are undoubtedly the so-on-trend-it-hurts pastel shades that are perfect for the forthcoming spring season; seen on every catwalk and within every magazine feature, pastels are big news for 2014. There's a mint green, baby blue, pastel pink, natural nude and wearable white - all offering suprisingly great coverage and a true-to-colour result in only two coats. The formula is fast drying (although 60 seconds is exaggerated!) and leaves a perfectly smooth and shiny finish.

I love the addition of the little colour coordinated Rita stamp on each of the bottle, making these a collectors item for Rimmel and Rita fans alike. For the first time in ages I've actually been really excited about a celebrity launch and Rita didn't leave me disappointed; it's great to see her stamp on a collection of nail varnishes, while still keeping the shades wearable, on-trend and suitable for every time of Rimmel customer. I love the shades, love the finish and love the price... You can pick these up for around £2.89 when they launch next month.

The whole Rita Ora for Rimmel collection will be available March 12th, priced £2.89 per polish.

Blog Advice 101: #4 How To Work With PR's & Brands

February 17, 2014, 12:07 pm

≫ Next: NEW From Burberry Beauty: Six New Nail Shades for Autumn

≪ Previous: Rita Ora For Rimmel London: Her Debut Nail Varnish Collection

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The question I get asked by other bloggers more often than any other is 'how do I work with PRs?' When I first started blogging nearly four years ago, working with brands wasn't even an option; we simply wrote about what we loved and what we were using, hoping that someone somewhere would read it. Only with the rapid growth of LBQ during a time of change, partnered with my award nominations and wins, was I able to make connections with brands and gain access to highly sought after press samples. However, it's not the foundation of a blog and shouldn't be the sole purpose of running one. If you're establishing a site with the sole objective of getting your hands on free goodies and eating a lot of cupcakes and canapes, don't waste your time... Now there are thousands of blogs, with hundreds more launching every day, you really need to understand the playing field and to strategically work out your best game plan. Although working with brands isn't the be all and end all of blogging, here are my tips if you really believe you should be.

Understand Their Point Of View
The point of PR is to generate maximum awareness of a product, campaign or launch. Brands want to naturally work with bloggers that have a large audience, but also an audience that is relevant and has a likelihood to purchase. With budgets continually reducing, there's not an infinite amount of product sitting and waiting to be grabbed like a child raiding a candy store - every one needs to be accounted for and justified. In order for a brand to send you something for review, they must be able to see the right fit with your audience and a large amount of potential exposure. If your blog only has twenty readers, then a PR simply won't be able to justify sending you something for nothing... Try to see it from their point of view and don't expect parcels of goodies to turn up just because your mum and three mates are reading your site. 

Do It Without Them
It's absolutely possible to run a blog without press samples. In fact, that's what we all did for months (if not years,) before blogs became the 'thing to watch.' When I first started LBQ I used to write about what I was using that week, top tips for looking great, how to wear the latest trends and what was about to hit the shelves. I also used to spend every Saturday afternoon wandering around Boots, Superdrug and the beauty halls of department stores writing notes and taking inspiration for future features. It's actually a lot more exciting when you try to push the boundaries or be creative with your content; you don't even need a single freebie.

Why You? Why Your Blog? 
If you do want to work with PRs and brands, then it's essential to give them a reason to talk to you. Focus on growing your audience, becoming an authority and a trusted information source for readers. If you can illustrate that your readers are highly engaged (i.e. leave a lot of comments,) or you have a strong social presence, this will help to get the brands on board. Furthermore, if you've achieved anything exceptional, been nominated for or won awards, this is also worth mentioning to brands as it illustrates your credentials. Essentially you need to give more than 'I have 100 hits a day' as a reason to work with you: there are a million and one others offering exactly the same thing, so you need to stand out from the crowd.

Do Your Research
If you do want to make a connection with a brand, then ensure you do your research. Find out about their latest launches, go into store, talk to their beauty assistants and take the time to try the products on counter. Blindly attempting to get information and freebies out of any brand that will listen won't get you very far. Get to grips with the brand DNA and make sure it fits well with your interests and those of your readers; only then is it time to get in contact with a brand.

Build Relationships 
Like any relationship, you have to build up from an awkward 'hello' before you get to the hot and heavy stuff. With the prevalence of social media it's even easier to get in touch with a brand you love; why not drop them a tweet with a blog post you've already written so they know you have a genuine interest, or leave a note on their Facebook page? If you do manage to get in contact with a brand and have an email address, drop them a note to say hello and introduce yourself, expressing your interest in finding out more about the brand and new launches. It costs nothing to send a press release, so ask to be added to their database and notified of news - not only will this provide you with potential stories and content, but it gives you a way of illustrating your genuine interest in a brand. As you continue to build a relationship over a period of time, you're more likely to be invited to launch events and sent new product to test. (But don't expect it.)

Don't Send A Shopping List
There is nothing worse than sending a shopping list of products you want to try to a PR. Nothing. Not only will you get instantly blacklisted from that brand, but as PRs frequently move around and talk as much as bloggers, you're likely to get a reputation as a 'blogger blagger' with others. You don't NEED samples to write a blog, so asking for any amount of product and expecting it to land on your lap is simply rude. I'm still astounded at how often this happens, so just don't do it.

Say Thanks
I know for a fact that a little note of thanks from a blogger can make a PR's day. This is something I'm extremely guilty of not doing, but dropping an email to say thank you for information or a gift can really put a smile on their face - as well as helping them to remember you in future.

Although there's no magic formula, right or wrong answer, I hope some of my tips help you on your way. Do you have any top tips on working with brands and PRs?  
Next in the series: How To Write An Awesome Blog Post.

(Missed the other posts in the series? Check out 'How To Start A Beauty Blog,' 'How To Grow Your Audience' and 'How To Manage Your Social Media'.)

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NEW From Burberry Beauty: Six New Nail Shades for Autumn

February 18, 2014, 1:30 am

≫ Next: NEW: Max Factor's Caroline Barnes Launches NUDE Lipgloss Collection

≪ Previous: Blog Advice 101: #4 How To Work With PR's & Brands

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It's become the ultimate moment of every London Fashion Week season and yesterday Burberry, once again, didn't leave us disappointed. Christopher Bailey decorated classic Burberry silhouettes with arty 'hand painted' shapes in bright colours, so what better way to complement the fashion than with a similarly bold and colourful collection of nail varnish? I was lucky enough to get a preview of the new nail colours launching for Autumn before the catwalk show yesterday, and they're absolutely divine. Six new shades include a dark teal, almost-black navy blue, petrol blue, cherry red, golden bronze and a fabulous deep purple shade that was modeled by every girl strutting their stuff on the catwalk.

These nail varnishes provide a great consistency and a shiny, smooth finish that ensures the nail looks great; it helps they're in a pretty snazzy bottle too. I adore the new shades of varnish and can't wait to get my hands on them, the six colours providing everything you need for the Autumn/Winter season. Considering other premium varnishes can set you back over £20.00 per shade, these are surprisingly good value at only £15.00 each. Although you can grab any old varnish for a few pounds in Boots, having a beautiful Burberry number on your dressing table provides a little bit of London design without the trench coat price tag. The great news is that you can get your hands on this collection right now, months before they officially launch as part of the collection later in the year. Until 3rd March you can grab the entire portfolio of six shades for £90.00, exclusively online or via the Covent Garden Beauty Box. It's the best news since Cara Delevigne last took a selfie.

The new nail varnish collection is available now from the Burberry Beauty Box in Covent Garden and online until 3rd March - get it now or wait until Autumn!

NEW: Max Factor's Caroline Barnes Launches NUDE Lipgloss Collection

February 18, 2014, 7:07 pm

≫ Next: London Fashion Week: The Nude Non-Trend For Autumn

≪ Previous: NEW From Burberry Beauty: Six New Nail Shades for Autumn

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Did you know that Mr Max Factor launched the very first incarnation of lipgloss in the 1920's? Originally called Lip Pomade, his innovation was used to give actresses on the silver screen super shiny lips. Over 85 years later Max Factor is paying hommage to their original formula with the launch of a new lipgloss collection, named for the original and simply called 'Nude Pomade.' Developed with the watching eye of Max Faxtor's makeup artist Caroline Barnes, the collection consists of four on-trend nude shades for spring that will suit every skintone.

Lustrous Sand works perfectly with a tan and creates soft caramalised lips, Pristine Nude is a staple colour for all skintones and helps to create a healthy glow, Glowing Peach is a perfect holiday gloss and right on-trend for 2014, while Radiant Rose contains accents of champagne for a subtle shimmer effect. The glosses aren't gloopy or sticky, providing shine and fullness on the lips without feeling heavy. The slim applicator and simple tube ensure these are easy to apply on the go, are perfect for popping in your bag and will take you from day to night with ease. I've been using these non-stop over the last few days and they make me look so much healthier than just a slick of lipbalm. Any one of these shades would be a great addition to any makeup bag, and at £7.99 each you don't even have to wait until payday.

The 'Nude Pomade' collection launches into Boots from 19th February priced £7.99 each.

London Fashion Week: The Nude Non-Trend For Autumn

February 19, 2014, 2:53 am

≫ Next: Understanding Skin with DMK (Plus FREE Tickets to the Acne Summit)

≪ Previous: NEW: Max Factor's Caroline Barnes Launches NUDE Lipgloss Collection

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So the whirlwind of London Fashion Week is over for another season. I've spent the last few days whizzing around the capital, getting the lowdown on what's going to be hot for next season. Autumn-Winter colour palettes are usually full of smokey greys, berry lips and porcelain complexions, but this season has seen somewhat of a transformation from the norm. Gone are statement lips, dark nails and hard lines around the eye... In are glowing, natural complexions, un-done hair dos, nude nails and barely there lips. Usually this is something we see for Spring, but if there's something I've learned over the last five days then it's definitely the fact that lazy is totally on-trend for Autumn.

Bare Minerals described their makeup look at Mark Fast as if "the model has gone for a long brisk walk around the Scottish highlands," while the hair at Bora Aksu was inspired by his mother's schoolgirl plaits and simply twisted to be pinned on the head. Orly kept the nails at Daks super simple, using a nude shade and highlighting around the corner with a shimmering bronze to provide depth. At Christopher Raeburn, L'Oreal Professionnel stylists pinned roughly dried hair in loose twists to create a lived-in texture, then let it hang loose for a natural 'just woke up' style. Makeup is minimal for Autumn and nails are nude to match; the key is to look like you've just come from the coldness of the winter wind and have a natural complexion with just a hint of blush. Freckles are left on show, lips are kept nude, brows are kept natural and eye makeup is kept to a bare minimum. Hair has never been so easy to achieve, with subtle movement and slightly frizzy textures taking you from bed to catwalk-hot in no time. Basically, it's great news for Autumn - we all get to spend an extra thirty minutes in bed, and thanks to Burberry we can even take our blankets with us to work. I've never been so happy to follow a trend.

Understanding Skin with DMK (Plus FREE Tickets to the Acne Summit)

February 19, 2014, 7:21 pm

≫ Next: L'Occitane Ultra Soft Cream: Limited Edition Fragranced Tins

≪ Previous: London Fashion Week: The Nude Non-Trend For Autumn

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As I've hit my thirties I've become increasingly concerned about the state of my face. Where I used to have glowing skin, flawless porcelain pigment and only the smallest of blemishes, I'm very much aware it's been replaced with a slightly creased and slightly pigmented finish. Looking after your skin, whatever your age, it vital in the fight against ageing and acne. DMK (Danné Montague-King) is a paramedical skin revision company with a flagship clinic in Harley Street, along with 130 other clinics in the UK. They have expertise in every skin condition, from pigmentation and anti-ageing to acne, and help their patients to understand and deal with skin conditions that blight their lives. Having blemishes and acne prone skin has more of an impact on us than just our appearance; it can deeply effect our self-confidence, self-perception and ability to form relationships. This March, DMK are hosting an Acne Summit with the objective of informing as many people as possible how to understand and deal with their acne, from one of the worlds leading acne practitioners.

Hosted by Dr Danné Montague-King (a respected leader in the industry,) at Chandos House, London on March 1st, the DMK Acne Summit provides a unique opportunity for acne sufferers to get first hand advice and support. The attendees will hear from the DMK founder how he, once a sufferer from acne, created a bespoke range of treatments and products which have made him a respected pioneer in the skincare industry. Danné will also host a Q&A session, allowing for specific questions or concerns to be raised from the audience. Attendees will also benefit from having a personal skin consulation by our very own Director of Education and Harley Street Expert Skin Practitioner, as well as DMK founder Dr. King himself, as well as having the opportunity to meet with other patients who have had astounding success with DMK treatments and products.

Tickets for this unique event are usually £10.00, but as a special treat for all LBQ readers you can attend absolutely FREE! You'll also get the chance to win DMK products and a Harley Street Treatment to help you on your way to fabulous skin. Space is limited, so call 0844800 3668 or email info@dmkmail.com to secure your place ASAP. If you're concerned about any area of your skin, or simply have an interest in skincare, then this isn't an opportunity to be missed.

Find our more about the DMK products, including ACU- KLENZ (cleansing gel), ACU-MOIST (moisturizer) and ACU-THERM (emergency spot cream), that can offer truly effective results on the Danné Montague-King website. Join them on Twitter or like them on Facebook too. 

This is a commissioned post on behalf of DMK.

L'Occitane Ultra Soft Cream: Limited Edition Fragranced Tins

February 20, 2014, 1:26 am

≫ Next: NEW Illamasqua Glamore Collection: PINK Lipstick & Nails!

≪ Previous: Understanding Skin with DMK (Plus FREE Tickets to the Acne Summit)

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I always have oodles of body lotion in my bedroom, ready to be lavished on morning and night to help me maintain silky smooth limbs. Especially in winter, when the cold winds and fluctuation in temperature play havoc with the uppermost layers of skin, we need to be especially careful with our routine. L'Occitane always add a touch of French elegance into every product they launch, and these bright limited edition tins are no exception. Making body lotion fun and practical, these tins of Ultra Soft Body Cream are rich in shea butter and melt into skin easily to help nourish and protect. Available in three delicate scents (including Rose Heart, Zesty Lime and Vanilla Bouquet,) they're the perfect indulgence.

I love how the cream is super light, yet still provides a hit of hydration while leaving a really delicate scent behind; all three scents are refreshing and uplifting, avoiding being too overpowering or sickly. Although this is a body cream, the tins are perfect for carrying in your bag and using as a hand cream or lotion on the go. At £18.00 each they're not cheap, but you need such a little amount and they make the perfect dressing table accompaniment - you can even keep the tins after you've finished them and use them as cute storage for niknaks! These would make a perfect Mother's Day gift, or a payday treat for yourself too. (Right now you can pick up all three for £42.00 - a saving of £12.00 from buying them individually!)

The Ultra Soft Cream tins are available priced £18.00 each or £42.00 for all three both online, and in L'Occitane stores.