NEW Illamasqua Glamore Collection: PINK Lipstick & Nails!

February 20, 2014, 8:19 pm

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Illamasqua have been taking the beauty world by storm, launching everything from green lipsticks to jet black foundation, with the aim of making every colour and every look accessible to all. Although I love the concept and love the variety of colour, a huge proportion of their portfolio is simply unwearable if you're a woman in her 30's who doesn't have bright blue hair. I love a shock of colour, but I also love colour that's wearable... And apparently you do too. Illamasqua have listened to their customer feedback and from the end of February will be adding six new products to their range that are a lot more wearable and 'mainstream' - in a good way. The 'Glamore' collection is inspired by the glamour of the 1920's showgirls and features three lipsticks (in a brand new creamy formula,) as well as three fabulous new nail shades.

I've always struggled with Illamasqua's original lipstick formula, it being incredibly tough to apply and drying on the lips. As the focus has always been on a super strong pigment, for a lot of people the matte texture just didn't work for them. I've always wanted to love it, but realistically it needs to be worn with a few layers of lipbalm to ensure it's wearable and long-lasting. However, with the new Glamore lipstick Illamasqua have married a great colour together with a fabulous formula to provide lovers of lipstick with the ultimate addition to their collection. These three colours are incredibly strong, but the texture is incredibly creamy and glossy - in complete contrast to the original Illamasqua formula (which will still remain!) I love all three of these shades and I know they'll become my new favourite lipsticks.

There's also a new glittery collection of nail polishes to tickle your fancy, that perfectly complement the lipstick shades. They're incredibly pigmented and full of glitter, providing a great result that's true to colour in only one coat. It dries practically instantaneously and forms an almost 'protective' shell on the nail (that Creative Director Alex Box credits with her flaky nail recovery!) These are definitely not sparkly topcoats and need to be worn alone, or as a statement nail; although I'm not a glittery pink fan, I love the shiny red shade and the delicate silvery-pink provides a great hue on an otherwise white or nude manicure.

I'm loving how Illamasqua are adding more wearable shades and commercial collections to their repertoire, without compromising their integrity or brand identity. I'm sure a lot of people will still use their multi-coloured cosmetics in a variety of ways, but it's amazing that makeup lovers like me can still get a piece of their collection in a more wearable hue. All six of these new products could be worn by my best mate, blogger friend or mum... Which is what I love in a brand. Illamasqua, you continue to be a brand to be reckoned with.

The 'Glamore' collection will be available from 27th February. The nail varnishes RRP £15.00 and the lipsticks RRP £16.50.

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Blog Advice 101: How To Write An Awesome Blog Post

February 21, 2014, 1:30 am

≫ Next: NEW From Bare Minerals: Lasting Liner in EIGHT Colours

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It's 2014 and anyone can be a writer. We all have the opportunity to become a journalist, an opinion leader and a blog owner, but the difference between the good and the great is their ability to formulate an engaging and well written post. I'm always on the look-out for new contributors or guest writers for my blog, but the standard of the work I'm often sent is almost unbelievably shocking. You don't have to be Shakespeare to formulate a great piece of writing, but it is essential to take pride in your work and formulate an opinion piece that flows naturally and makes sense. If you want your blog to be the 'next big thing' and for readers to return for more, then it's essential that you're writing some awesome content. Here are my top tips for making every blog post great.

It's All In A Title
Your title is the first thing a reader sees, be it on Twitter, Bloglovin, GFC reader or elsewhere. Your title should be engaging, clearly illustrate what the post contains and include key words you want search engines to find, (i.e. the brand and product name.) Gone are the days when song titles or lines from a poem are a good idea; they'll both confuse your reader and reduce the amount of traffic you get from Google.

Give It Structure
You wouldn't expect to read a magazine article and be jumping from one fact to another, without anything weaving the story together. Like a great book, every blog post should have a beginning, a middle and an end. Introduce the product or the story you're talking about it, fill the middle section with information and sign off effectively. You want to make your reader feel like they've read a chapter of a book, rather than just a random paragraph on page sixty-two.

Check Your Spelling & Grammar
There's nothing worse than piles of spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and sentences that go on for pages. With spell-checks and grammar correctors now automatically within every platform, there's really no excuse for a poorly written post. Grammar helps the reader to digest what you're trying to tell them, without the need to re-read it five times. If all else fails, add a comma where you would naturally take a breath and ensure a sentence is no longer than two lines long.

Break It Down 
Write a blog post like you're writing an essay and you'll be sure to produce something kick-ass. With every new point, start a new paragraph. With every new product, start a new section. Writing in massive blocks of text wastes your time, as visitors will simply skip the text and look at the pictures. Breaking your post down into an introductory paragraph, three key points and a conclusion will help keep your writing concise, readable and clear.

Make It Relatable
I always like to tell little stories at the beginning of my posts to make the reader feel at home. Writing about a memory, experience or a little background to a product helps to set the scene so they know what to expect. If readers feel comfortable and engaged with you straight away, the story you tell them is more likely to make an impact.

Illustrate It With Pictures 
Although words are great, pictures are worth a thousand of them. When I first started blogging we all used stock images or photos taken on a smartphone; now blogs are as much about great imagery as they are about the words that accompanies it. Taking photos of a product and showing off its features will help bring to life your words, as well as breaking up the post into manageable chunks. 

Include Key Information & Links
If you're writing about a product or brand that your reader may want to find out more about, then it's vital to include all the information they need. Keeping your reader on your site is easy when you've got the RRP, launch date, link and website all in one place for them. Essentially we're all time poor and lazy, so make it as easy as possible for your reader to digest information and act upon it.

Offer A Conclusion 
In my opinion there's nothing worse than a post with no end. If your reader has taken the time to read your thoughts, then leave them with a finishing point. Did you love the product or loathe it? Would you recommend they buy it, or is it not worth the cash? Do you want to know your readers thoughts or top tips? Signing off from a post with a question or comment will bring the whole thing together and leave your reader with a sense of satisfaction. 

Although writing a blog post is all about your own personality and experience, I hope these tips will help you improve just a little and generate some amazing content. 
Next in the series: How To Generate Content Ideas.

Want to catch up on the rest of the series? Check out all the previous posts here.

NEW From Bare Minerals: Lasting Liner in EIGHT Colours

February 21, 2014, 8:38 pm

≫ Next: COMPETITION: Barry M Aquarium Collection Presents 'Mermaid Nails'

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I do love Bare Minerals. They seem to take makeup that could otherwise be quite dull and make it interesting. Although they're known predominately for their mineral makeup and foundation range, they're really focusing on adding colour cosmetics to their repertoire. These new Lasting Liner long-wearing eyeliner pencils are available in eight very wearable shades, and contain everything you need for a subtle smokey eye or definition. The design of each liner has obviously been thought well through, with it containing a sharpener and smudging tip at one end and a precision crayon at the other; it even includes a clickable and secure lid to ensure you don't damage your liner when it's rattling about in your makeup bag.

Available in eight 'very Bare Minerals' shades (including black, brown grey, navy, bronze, plum and a golden khaki,) the liner provides a subtle injection of colour to help highlight and contour around the eye. I personally love how each shade is completely wearable and on the scale of grey, black or brown, rather than there being bold eyeliners that simply sit at the back of your makeup drawer all season. The precision tip allows you to either subtle outline the lash line or to draw in a more statement eyeliner look, building up to create a stronger colour.

The colour result is very subdued and adds just a hint to the eye, rather than offering a seriously strong cat-eye flick, making these great for every day use. However, for a stronger smokey eye I would definitely stick to my favourite jet black liners. They don't play too well with eyeshadow either, so for best results delicately powder the eye with some translucent powder and let the eyeliner do the talking. You can grab eyeliners for less than half this price (they're £14.00) and be perfectly happy, but with one of these in your bag it will undoubtedly become a work-wear staple that you can rely on.

Available now in eight shades priced £14.00 each.

COMPETITION: Barry M Aquarium Collection Presents 'Mermaid Nails'

February 22, 2014, 9:24 am

≫ Next: Healgel Eye & Face: Effective Lifting, Brightening and Smoothing

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When I was little I wanted to be Ariel from The Little Mermaid. I yearned to be friends with a crab while singing about gadgets and gizmos a-plenty (whozits and whatzits galore.) There's something a little bit magical about mermaids, the texture of their tails and the shimmering nature of their scales. This springtime Barry M are bringing a little bit of Ariel to all of us with their Aquarium inspired collection of nail varnishes and effects. I'm not normally one to rave about Barry's nail varnish, but with this collection of six polishes they've really got me hooked. (Sorry.)

Available in two mini collections (with red or green undertones,) the Aquarium sextet includes two strong shades of polish and two more delicate interpretations, as well as a complementary textured topcoat. All six varnishes include hint of two shades and a touch of gold, which catch the light to create a 'petrol' type effect. The colours are really quite strong and provide a true-to-bottle effect in two coats, as well as helping to smooth the nail and disguise any imperfections or ridges.

Not normally one for sparkles or topcoats, I really fell in love with these two topcoats as soon as I saw them. Unusually featuring chunks of foil an irregular shapes, they remind me of seaweed and create a striking look on the nail. They almost look like nail foils and can be arranged delicately on the nail to create the look you want; brushing the topcoat on doesn't work particularly well, so you do have to take a more artist approach to dabbing and blotting!

Because this collection is just so damn awesome, I'm giving the whole lot away to one lucky reader. That's SIX Barry M nail polishes (the entire Acquarium collection) worth £3.99 each, available to you before they launch next month. Want to win? Just enter via the widget below. Good luck!

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Healgel Eye & Face: Effective Lifting, Brightening and Smoothing

February 22, 2014, 8:45 pm

≫ Next: 10% Of Child Burns Are Caused By Hair Straighteners. Turn Them OFF!

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I'd heard a lot about Healgel from fellow beauty enthusiasts and bloggers; it had supposedly helped with blemishes, discolouration, hydration and smoothness in a matter of weeks. As a community, us beauty bloggers do tend to sensationalise products and make them out to be the next holy grail - so I always have to take comments with a pinch of salt and put the products to the test myself. Healgel has been on my radar for some time, but only in the last six weeks or so have I actually had a chance to try it out. The formulas are an unsually textured aqueous gel, that brings together the best active ingredients to soothe, repair and protect your skin in one formula. Designed by a team of the world's leading plastic surgeons and a renowned dermatological biochemist, they pooled their cutting edge research to provide a treatment for all skin types that was truly effective.

Without getting too complicated and focused on the science, the Healgel formulas have been designed so that they key ingredients are delivered to the depth of the skin where they are needed most. Unlike a lot of skincare products that superficially sit on the surface, Healgel actually delves deeper and helps to resolve issues from within. These are exceptionally pleasant and easy to use, the formula being light and non-greasy, and absorb well into the skin within a minute or so. The pump action helps to deliver the perfect amount of product and minimise wastage - something that's handy considering the Healgel Face is £42.00 and the Healgel Eye is £32.00.

Although the face formula was pleasant to use and helped me maintain a smooth complexion, it was the eye formula that really made a visible difference. I've always had issues with my under-eye area and dark circles, it becoming instantly apparent if I've had a bad nights sleep or not enough water. However, with daily use of the Healgel Eye formula I noticed my dark circles had massively reduced, the skin was tighter and there was a less obvious difference between the top of my cheek and the bottom of my eye socket (where normally a huge line was apparent!) My concealer started to sit better on the skin, eventually being replaced with only a highlighter because there was very little to conceal.

The Healgel Eye formula lifts, brightens and revives tired under-eye areas to leave you looking refreshed. Although it does take a few weeks for the results to become apparent, this is one of the best eye creams I've ever tried. It's not heavy, it doesn't block the delicate eye area and it helps makeup to apply with ease. Whenever I've been without this for some reason (like when I forgot to take it to Paris with me,) I've really noticed a difference and have felt a little sad. Investing in a great eye cream can mean the difference between looking like you've had a heavy night and getting away with nobody noticing. Healgel is the answer to that dilemma.

Healgel is available online pried £48.00 for the Face version and £32.00 for the eye version.

10% Of Child Burns Are Caused By Hair Straighteners. Turn Them OFF!

February 23, 2014, 12:28 pm

≫ Next: Nail Rock Textured Manicure: The Best Nail Toppers This Season

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Hair straighteners are now as much a part of our lives as a toothbrush; they provide an essential addition to our beauty routines and are often used more than the kettle and microwave combined. However, hair straighteners are responsible for 50% of the marks on my bedroom carpet - because we've all left them on without realising and lived to regret it. Now that straighteners can reach temperatures of over 220°C, many can take up to forty minutes to cool down completely after use. They can cause severe burns if they touch the skin (I've got marks on my arms to prove it,) with nearly half of all adults having been burned by an electrical appliance in their lifetime. Children are particularly vulnerable as their skin can be 15 times thinner than adults, meaning they're more susceptible to serious damage.

The number of hair straightener burns among children has doubled in recent years, now accounting for nearly one in ten. The majority of these incidents are when toddlers touch, grab or tread on the hot hair straightener plates because they've been left hot and unattended. It's so easy to turn your straighteners off immediately after use and put them away in a safe place, ensuring your loved ones are protected - but so many of us are still putting children in potential harms way. A new campaign by the Electrical Safety Council aims to highlight this growing issue and ensure both adults and children are safe. The hard hitting video illustrates simply how much damage a straightener can do, so make sure you turn them off and keep your little ones safe.

To find out more about the campaign check out the Electrical Safety Council website.
Follow them on Twitter here: @OfficialESC

Nail Rock Textured Manicure: The Best Nail Toppers This Season

February 23, 2014, 8:05 am

≫ Next: Top Ten Uses For Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream (Fragrance Free)

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There's been a huge trend for nail adornments, toppers and textured manicures over the last year or two, with everything from feathers and pearls to flowers and baubles being added to a slick coat of varnish. Although Ciate seem to have cornered a huge part of the nail market, Rock Beauty are starting to give them a serious run for their money. These new textured manicure kits are exclusively available in Topshop and are available in three super cute variants, providing a striking and unusual manicure that will see you right through until Summer.

Each kit contains a nail varnish and corresponding topcoat, both of which contain the same tones and hues. There's a bright orange with teeny tiny bows and heart shapes, a lilac shade with shimmering pastel coloured stars, as well as a deep pink with pale pink butterflies and stars. Although the nail varnishes are quite thin and runny, with a couple of coats they leave a good colour result and a texture which works well with the nail toppers; it's not gloopy enough to cause a mess, just thin enough to stick to the adornments and hold them in place as they dry.

I love the fact you get a big pot of sparkles and shapes to ensure you get a huge number of looks from each kit, as well as the fact you can easily mix and match all three. The adornments are great quality and can be individually placed on the nail, or simply applied by dipping wet polish into the tub. To ensure they stay on and don't catch, adding a thick layer of topcoat can minimise risk and help them stay in place much longer. The little foam butterflies, bows and hearts are quite fiddly and require holding in place individually so they don't curl, so ensure you take your time to apply them carefully and fix in place with a topcoat.

Each little kit will set you back £6.99, which although isn't a fortune is relatively costly for a polish and some toppers. However, if you team up with a couple of buddies and buy all three, you can split the toppers and get the best of all the adornments for a third of the price! That way it's a bargain and a nail statement all in one. Just remember to push the boundaries and team these fab little treats with a multitude of shades and varnish textures.

The Nail Rock 'textured manicure' kits are exclusive to Topshop and cost £6.99 each.

Top Ten Uses For Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream (Fragrance Free)

February 23, 2014, 9:32 pm

≫ Next: Beauty’in: Drink Your Way to (Clinically Proven) Better Skin

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Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream has been one of the most celebrated beauty products for as long as I've known what beauty products were. Loved by women of all ages, makeup artists and skincare experts alike, this is one product that everyone should have stashed in their handbag for all kinds of emergencies. Although I was quite late to the Eight Hour Cream party, now that I've discovered it it's become an essential on my dressing table and a product I would thoroughly recommend. Its unusual gel-balm texture is nothing like a cream, scaring away many consumers who simply don't know how to use it, but this lends itself to being extremely multi-functional and a great investment buy. Here are my top ten uses for Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream, now available in a 'fragrance free' version.

1. Dry Skin Soother: The thick texture of the balm ensures it makes a great soothing solution for dry skin patches, flaky elbows and dehydrated hands. A small amount can be massaged into the skin easily to leave it feeling instantly hydrated and tension relieved. It's great to carry around during the winter months, providing an effective hit of relief when the cold winds get too much.

2. Lipbalm: Great for dry and chapped lips, a small amount can help relieve tightness and restore the natural balance of your pout. No only does it provide shine and help to create the illusion of fuller lips, the formula is long-lasting and helps to soothe in the long-term too.

3. Cuticle Care: A little amount of balm massaged into each of the cuticles can help to hydrate dry skin and massage away dead cells. If you're not a fan of cuticle oil, then the Eight Hour Cream provides a thicker and more maleable formula which will help to keep your hands looking tip top. 

4. Heel Relief Balm: Dry, cracked heels are unsightly and uncomfortable, but using a little of this can help to hydrate heels and prevent them from cracking further. It's great when used as a weekly treatment and massaged into feet to leave them super smooth.

5. Aftersun: Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream is proven to help relieve the symptoms of sunburn by rehydrating the skin's surface and soothing the damaged area. It contains Vitamin E, essential for healthy skin, and gets to work to leave skin feeling much better within eight hours... Hence the name!

6. Shaving Relief: In the same way the balm works as a great treatment for sunburn, the Eight Hour Cream works extremely well for irritation caused by shaving. It can also help soothe cuts and nicks caused by a dodgy razor, leaving your pins looking fab in no time. 

7. In-Flight Companion: Thanks to its high concentration of ingredients and ability to rapidly hydrate the skin, Eight Hour Cream is a great companion if you're taking a long-haul flight. Apply it to your face after removing makeup and let it sink in during the flight duration, ensuring when you apply your makeup upon landing it sits perfectly and your complexion looks refreshed.

8. Eyebrow Tamer: The wax-like texture helps to calm unruly brows and comb them into shape, keeping them in place all day. Perfect for when you haven't had time to take a trip to the salon, or when you're just channeling your inner Cara Delevigne.

9. Face Mask: If you're suffering from the cold winter winds and your skin has seen better days, applying a thin layer of Eight Hour Cream as a face mask can provide a hydration kick. After twenty minutes your skin will feel plumped, refreshed and much smoother.

10. Spot Treatment: We all get unsightly pimples at certain times of the month, which ineveitably leave us with a dry and flaky patch that's worse than the original spot. Using a touch of Eight Hour Cream can help soothe the irritation, calm redness and hydrate skin to get your complexion back to normal much quicker.

Do you have any other uses for Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream? I'd love to know!

Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream is now available in a Fragrance Free version priced £22.10 for a 50ml tube.

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Beauty’in: Drink Your Way to (Clinically Proven) Better Skin

February 24, 2014, 1:49 am

≫ Next: The Body Shop: Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil & Moisture Mask

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We all know the age old advice of drinking plenty of water as a way of keeping our bodies, minds and skins hydrated, but realistically this often translates into sugary drinks and too much coffee. Many of us don't actually like the taste of water, but the only alternatives are full of flavouring and artificial sweeteners that provide far too many chemicals to really add any benefit. Although Vitamin Water exploded onto the scene a few years ago, claiming to offer vitamin benefit to skin and mind, they're actually sugary drinks that are as bad as drinking a can of coke. Previously the sponsor of London Fashion Week, someone up top wised up to this and has replaced them with the relatively new Beauty’in Beauty Drink - created by Braziliian beauty expert and entrepreneur Cristiana Arcangeli. Beauty’in is a range of drinks that contain vitamins and supplements to aid the body's natural performance (with no added sugar, preservatives or nasties) when consumed daily as part of a skincare plan. Not only do they taste great, but they've been scientifically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and increase radiance too.

Available in eight different flavour combinations (including Lychee & White Tea, Blueberry & Acai, Coconut Water & Pear and Aloe Vera & Cucumber,) each drink provides a different benefit to the body - from helping to keep you strong and focused, to helping you face the day ahead. The drinks work in an innovative way, containing a pod of vitamins in the cap that needs to be broken and thoroughly mixed with the mineral water before it's consumed; this keeps the nutrients fresh and effective, unlike many other alternatives which are about as useful as a chocolate teapot.

The bottle itself only contains mineral water and the magic happens when you pierce the cap to release the flavour - it's essential that you wait for it to thoroughly mix, giving it a good hard shake, before drinking or you'll get a powdery mouthful and a tasteless finish to the drink when you get to the end of the bottle. (So many times during Fashion Week I saw people spluttering because they hadn't mixed the bottle correctly!) 

Clinical studies have also shown the positive impact these drinks can have on your skin, helping with skin renewal and elasticity thanks to the inclusion of collagen. When consumed continually (one a day) over a 60 day period, there was up to a 31% improvement in skin elasticity and firmness, 41% increase in hydration and luminosity, 38% reduction in wrinkle depth and 100% increase in firmness. Those stats are hard to argue with! This is such an easy programme to get on board with, especially as there are also Beauty Teas and Beauty Candy available to mix up the routine a little and ensure you get the same nutrients that can have a positive impact on the appearance of your skin.

You do have to ensure you consume the entire drink within three hours of opening to ensure the nutrients are still effective, but they're so tasty (thanks to their unusual combinations) that it's not hard to pretty much drink it all in one. Beauty’in not only offers a tasty alternative to other sugary drinks, a hit of goodness and long term skin benefit, but they help keep you hydrated and ready to face the day ahead.

The Beauty'in Beauty Drinks are available online via Selfridges priced £3.50 each. Beauty Candy is priced £2.50 for a little box or £8.00 for a large box. A box of ten Beauty Tea sachets is also priced £3.50 and available via Harvey Nicols.

The Body Shop: Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil & Moisture Mask

February 25, 2014, 2:05 am

≫ Next: LBQ Brand Focus #22: Mark Milton

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Taking care of your skin now will benefit you in the years to come. Taking a little time to cleanse thoroughly, apply effective moisturisers and massage the skin will help keep your complexion looking fresh. Adding a night-time routine can really help your skin to replenish itself as you sleep, particularly as it has the time to fully absorb ingredients without you adding three layers of makeup over the surface. I've always been a big advocate of night creams and masks, but sometimes they can be extremely costly and seem like an unnecessary indulgence; with the launch of The Body Shop's Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil& Moisture Mask, they now solve that problem. Simple to use, effective and totally affordable, these two products can offer you the skin you've always wanted to wake up to.

Although I've never been a great fan of overnight serums or oils (getting stuck to a greasy pillow isn't my idea of a great nights sleep,) The Body Shop have ensured their serum-in-oil is super light, non-greasy and absorbs fast. You need only a few drops massaged into the skin to ensure you maintain hydration levels and wake up feeling refreshed. It contains the highest concentration of wheatgerm oil across the entire Vitamin E range (which can help with bloodflow to the surface and in the treatment of blemishes or scarring,) as well as Fair Trade soya oil from Brazil. I've been using this instead of my regular overnight cream, which at eight times the price is comparable in results - this is a total bargain at only £12.00!

The Vitamin E Sink-In Moisture Mask is another great addition to the classic range, offering an intense hit of moisture that's suitable for all skin types. Although it's intended to be used as a ten-minute face mask, for me this doesn't really do anything - there's no real difference in how my skin feels or looks after such a short period of time. However, if you apply the blancmange-like formula to skin overnight (or even over the top of the Serum-In-Oil,) it can get to work over a longer period and be washed away in the shower the next morning. It's quite runny and feels more like a cream than a mask, but used in parallel with the other Vitamin E products it can help leave your complexion super hydrated and ready to face the Spring winds.

I love that The Body Shop are going back to their Vitamin E roots and focusing on the key products and ranges that we used to love them so much for. Gone are the days when they were a wishy-washy brand that you walked by without a second thought; they're now a High Street force to be reckoned with and have been reinstated on to many a woman's shopping list. Have you tried these products? Are you a fan of The Body Shop?

The Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil & Moisture Mask are both available in stores and online priced £12.00 each.

LBQ Brand Focus #22: Mark Milton

February 25, 2014, 4:01 am

≫ Next: NEW From Kiko Cosmetics: 'Rock Attraction' Bronzer

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A little touch of jewellery can instantly uplift an outfit, add a touch of sparkle and create a statement. It may be a bejeweled ring, a sparkly pair of earrings or a simple piece of exquisite craftmanship, but there's no doubting how a beautiful piece can make us feel. Mark Milton jewellery includes multiple collections of stunning necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings for women. Curated with loving care by Mark himself, each piece is designed for those with an eye for quality and a passion for design. Every item in the capsule collections has been crafted using precious materials sourced by Mark, whose heritage is steeped in jewellery making tradition; the Milton family history began in 1947 with the sale of a pearl in London’s jewellery quarter, and still has an influence on the collections launched today. However, they're not just the classic pieces you'd imagine - but modern, statement and simple accessories that will make a timeless addition to your jewellery repertoire.

These certainly aren't items you'd stumble across on the High Street, offering everything from a statement cuff to a delicate expandable bracelet, bejewelled necklace and striking gem ring... Mark Milton’s love of detail and commitment to his craft is what makes each of these pieces truly special. The necklace above is made from the most delicate white gold, woven to create an expandable piece that features no catches or opening - it simply stretches and fits over the head to create a subtle statement. The single yellow gold centre piece provides the perfect finishing touch, and can be worn either at the front or back of the neck. Mark has also designed some lustful rings that bring a touch of vintage glamour to any look, while still managing to be extremely on-trend. Not only do these items of jewellery make a fabulous gift, but they'll no doubt be treasured for generations to come.

Have a look at more of the Mark Milton pieces on their website here: www.mark-milton.com

This is a commissioned post on behalf of Mark Milton.

NEW From Kiko Cosmetics: 'Rock Attraction' Bronzer

February 25, 2014, 6:50 am

≫ Next: Cleanse With Benefits: Cleansers That Help You Inside & Out

≪ Previous: LBQ Brand Focus #22: Mark Milton

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I'm a sucker for great packaging, innovative application and an embossed palette. Sometimes you have to throw all logic out the window and just make an impulse purchase because something is simply too cool to pass by. Kiko Cosmetics are slowly becoming known as a brand that push the limits of the norm, creating innovative and thought provoking products that meet a need previously otherwise unmet. (Check out their great Winter skincare range!) With their Spring collection of makeup they've got a fair few fabulous pieces, but it's this Rock Attraction Bronzer that caught my attention. In all honesty I've no idea why jeans are hot for next season, but this cute palette just makes me smile and it's almost too good to use.

The bronzer itself is densely pigmented and provides a serious hit of colour, so you do have to use it sparingly or keep it to one side until you've started applying the fake tan. If you're not a bronzing expert, for best results use a subtle dusting of powder with a big fluffy brush and ensure you delicately brush over the face. Focusing on the cheekbones and contouring a little will help provide a healthy glow and a beautiful finish. Available in two shades, this would make a great addition to your daily routine when the weather starts perking up; replacing the blush with bronzer will help ensure you look super healthy and ooze glamour. Just make sure you don't use too much or you could just look like an extra from TOWIE... You have been warned!

The Rock Attraction Bronzer is available online and in Kiko stores priced £15.90.

Cleanse With Benefits: Cleansers That Help You Inside & Out

February 26, 2014, 1:30 am

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Cleansing is one of life’s little essentials. After a long hard day, no other product is better at removing free radicals or stubborn make-up than a cleanser. Whether the process involves a hot flannel or soft cotton discs, there is something deeply therapeutic and relaxing about this daily skincare ritual. Yet, the feel good factor isn’t entirely down to the product. Many psychologists believe that the act of cleansing itself can also remove mental residues as well as physical. For example, if you have been feeling hesitant about a recent decision, cleansing helps to reduce any conflict you may feel over your choices. Looks like Peggy Lee was way ahead of the game when she sang ‘I’m gonna wash that man right outta my hair’. Cleansing doesn’t just help us feel better about the decisions we make on a daily basis; equally, it can also serve as a refreshing function to wash away the symbolic mask we wear during our day at work. Removing the ‘mask’ can feel purifying and restorative and help to refresh our self-view at the end of each day. While a lot of theory behind the powers of cleansing is yet to be backed up by large-scale studies, product research into cleansers has been far more rigorous. Here are the ten best cleansers that will help leave you sparkling on the outside as well as inside.

Shu Uemura POREFinist£26.50Wash away concerns about oily skin with this anti-shine cleansing oil. Launching in April, the updated formula targets blackheads by regulating sebum secretion and also dramatically reduces shine and greasiness. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of smooth skin for a beautiful make-up finish that lasts longer. Less is more with this spot-fighting hero product.

Crème de la Mer Cleansing Foam£60.00
For those willing to splash the cash, this luxury cleanser is for you. A deluxe hybrid of sea algae fibres and white pearl powder is whipped together to gently purify and energise the skin. The fluffy texture lathers up into a rich foam making it a dream to apply.

Diptyque Cleansing Balm£44.00
Appearances can be deceptive with this new Cleansing Balm by Diptique. Created with three essential waxes it quickly transforms into a fine oil between your fingertips, before magically morphing into a milky emulsion on contact with water. Its altering abilities are not just for show; the formula is deeply refining helping skin to reach a new level of softness. It’s well worth spoiling yourself with this new beauty treat.
  
Rodial Dragons Blood Cleansing Water£29.00
While the name might sound like something from a children’s fantasy film, Dragon’s Blood is actually sourced from the red sap of the ‘sangre de drago’ tree. The super-soothing ingredient works to form a second skin-like protective film across your face and neck that evens out skin tone. Its anti-inflammatory properties calm stressed skin making it ideal for city dwellers that face a daily onslaught of urban grime.

Ren Rose Centifolia Hot Cloth Cleanser£16.00
More than your average cleanser, this two-phase treatment is something you’d expect when visiting a facialist. First comes the rich velvety formula that contains reviving Rosa Centifolia (that’s Rose water to you and I) to refresh and invigorate the skin. Quickly followed by the hot cloth that deeply relaxes you whilst opening your pores for a thorough cleanse. The result? Skin is left so polished it gleams.

Organic Pharmacy Carrot Butter£34.95
A must-have for those who suffer from dry skin, Organic Pharmacy’s Carrot Butter melts on contact leaving skin drenched with moisture. One of its main ingredients is Rosemary, a powerful decongestive that magnetically lifts impurities from the skin. For skin that is particularly dull, remove the cleanser with a water soaked muslin cloth (which will help to improve blood circulation.)

Make Up Store Cleansing Oil£23.00
Scandi brands are making their mark in the skincare world and it’s easy to see why with Make Up Store’s latest offering. This 3-layered cleanser gently and effectively tackles tough waterproof makeup without stripping away natural oil, not to mention the vibrantly coloured formula brightens up any dressing table.

Neal’s Yard Wild Beauty Balm£37.00
A cult classic, women all over the UK have been using Wild Beauty balm for ten years. It seems we can’t get enough of its naturally-derived ingredients such as hemp, geranium and patchouli that all provide a wealth of benefits to our skin. To celebrate its milestone birthday this April, Neal’s Yard have partnered with talented British artist, Alice Shields, to create an exclusive design to appear on the packaging. Hurry though as its only available while stocks last.

Estee Lauder Perfectly Clean Cleanser£22.00
A beauty staple if ever there was one. Don’t be fooled by its gentle formula, this cream cleanser is super tough on resilient make-up giving skin a much needed deep clean. After just one use your skin will thank you.

Caudalie Fleur De Vigne Instant Foaming Cleanser£15.00
This wonderfully fresh soap-free cleanser is a treat for the senses; made with 98.7% natural ingredients (including red grape extract and sage,) it respects the skin’s natural balance to leave it comfortable and supple. Apply to damp skin for best results, it’s super refreshing on hot sticky days.

Written by Perdita Nouril
@TheGlossProject 

Blog Advice 101: How To Generate Content Ideas

February 26, 2014, 7:26 am

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When I turned my blog into a full time job, I increased the amount of posts from around five a week to twice a day. I felt it was important for me to be constantly generating fresh content and keeping my readers engaged, returning for more as often as possible. But writing that many posts can leave you scratching your head, trying to come up with yet another idea that will keep your readers happy. Writing endless reviews or posting continuous outfit posts only remains interesting for a short time; we need to be coming up with innovative ways of getting our point across so our sites don't become stale. But how do we do that when we're all so time poor and can't see past the pile of 100 lipglosses? Here are some of my tips to get your creative juices flowing.

Tips and Tricks
Writing about a product can be useful for those readers that just want information, but they can also get that in about fifty other places. Introducing your top tips, tricks on how to use a product and even unusual application techniques can help differentiate your blog and ensure your post is more engaging. If you're writing about a new lipgloss, why not write about your favourite three looks you've created with it or the top five products it complements?

Look Around You
We're surrounded by inspiration. Every time you get in the shower, have a relaxing bath, apply your makeup or take a trip to Boots there's something to trigger an idea. Opening our eyes and seeing everything as a possible blog post will continually trigger ideas and keep your creative juices flowing. I'm always in the bath or playing with makeup when I come up with a really great idea, rather than sitting at my desk trying to write.

Talk To Your Friends
Remember that you're the expert and are continually exposed to huge amounts of beauty news. Your friends and family may need some really simple answers to questions they have, or require a helping hand when it comes to understanding what's right for them. Although you may think something is obvious and second nature, if you put yourself in the shoes of a reader then it may trigger numerous ideas that could be extremely helpful.

Read Magazines
It seems illogical for a blogger to be suggesting reading magazines, but the reason they'll never cease to exist is because a lot of the monthly glossies are full of exceptional journalism. They ask questions, trigger debates and focus in-depth on a particular issue. Having an evening to yourself and flicking through a magazine can really help to trigger ideas and keep you on the right track. 

Use Your Experiences 
Do you have a specific cleansing routine, add a combination of three oils to your bath or make your own hair treatments? Use these experiences to generate interesting pieces, as well as a glimpse into your world. Readers love to learn from others, especially as we're always on the look-out for new tricks that will leave us looking and feeling great. 

Carry A Notebook 
I love a list. Whenever I'm feeling creative or come up with an idea for a post or blog series, I note it down in my notepad to use later. This way you'll never forget a great idea, even if it may not be practical for a couple of months or take you a few weeks to complete. There's nothing worse than having a light-bulb moment and forgetting forever more what it was.

It's not easy generating continuous ideas for blog posts, but hopefully my tips will help even just a little. Do you have any ways in which you generate content ideas? 
Next in the series: How To Illustrate Your Content With Great Pictures

Want to catch up on the rest of the series? Check out all the previous posts here.

NEW: Seventeen 'Colour Clash' Nail Effect Topcoat

February 27, 2014, 1:30 am

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It seems that a slick of red polish isn't enough if you want to be seen as on-trend and fabulous. Nails are most definitely now an accessory, becoming as much a part of an outfit as your statement necklace. Seventeen have always done a great job at launching on-trend and innovative colours, textures and effects (all at budget prices,) so it's no surprise their latest launch is channeling the miss-matched texture effect seen on many a Spring-Summer catwalk. These 'Colour Clash' nail effect topcoats contain a mixture of colours and sized particles to create a really abstract and unusual result; unlike a lot of topcoats which just provide a universal glittery finish, these offer an effect I haven't seen before. (A miracle!)

I love the combination of teeny particles and chunks of colour, that provide a unusual result that works perfectly with the pastel Spring trend. Although these are available in both a pink and blue undertone, when they're applied there's hardly any difference - so you can get away with buying just one polish and using the base coat to bring out the various different colours. These look fab on a nude or brown shade, which really makes the colours pop, but would look equally fab over a white for a fresh Spring look. At £3.99 each you don't even have to wait until payday either... Or for the sun to shine.

The 'Colour Clash' topcoats are available now from Boots stores priced £3.99 each.

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Ageing of the Skin: What Really Happens & What Can We Do About It?

February 27, 2014, 7:41 am

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Ageing is inevitable. It's something that's going to happen to all of us someday, yet I don't know a single person that enjoys seeing the signs of ageing on their skin. So, what's the science behind ageing and how can we delay the signs? As we age the collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of our skin starts to deplete: the major factor concerned with our 'older' appearance. Collagen and elastin are structural proteins that are made and used within the human body, responsible for holding everything together; without them our body would literally fall apart. Collagen is very strong and holds each layer of our skin together, whereas elastin allows stretch and movement of tissues within the body. Together they make a wonderful partnership which allows your skin to be spring-like and move easily. Once the skin hits around 25 years old the production of collagen and elastin starts to slow down - this means the ageing process has begun! With each year that passes by, the production of collagen and elastin slow down a little more and more. This results in our skin losing its flexibility and contours noticeably start to droop and wrinkle. The good news is there are ways in which we can delay the signs of ageing... Hurrah!

Wearing an SPF all year round
When it comes to anti-ageing, who'd question that prevention is better than cure? It's far better to protect your skin from the word go, rather than waiting until the damage is done. UVA rays from the sun penetrate into the skin and destroy Vitamin A and E - the essential vitamins that keep your skin looking young and healthy. UVB rays are responsible for burning the skin, which rapidly speeds up the depletion of collagen and elastin as well as increasing our risk of skin cancer. Wearing an SPF all year round (regardless of whether you can see the sun!) results in your skin being protected from the damage UVA and UVB can cause.

Skin Needling
Many companies have now launched treatments called Skin Needling. The primary reason for using a skin needling device is to make little holes in the skin so that Retinol based products can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. The tiny holes the needles make allow the products to penetrate deeper than no other topical skincare cream can reach. Marks are not left on the skin, but inflammation will be present and you may find tiny scabs that will disappear after a day or two. If the needle used is longer than 1.0mm in length it will draw tiny spots of blood and lymph fluid. Doctors and Dermatologist say this shocks the skin into 'healing' and therefore will automatically start producing collagen and elastin for healing purposes. You are effectively tricking your skin into its own anti-ageing treatment!

Vitamin A
The one ingredient you want to include into your anti-ageing skin care regime is Retinol. In basic terms, Retinol is Vitamin A as a whole molecule and is one of the best ingredients used for anti-ageing. It's a potent antioxidant and works on repairing damaged cells from free radical attacks (UVA damage) while stimulating new cell production. Not only is it great for anti-ageing, but also beneficial for scarred, blemished and pigmentated skin. You can take Vitamin A internally via supplements, as well as using it topically within your skincare regime by using products such as Environ - a pharmaceutical skincare range that contains high doses of vitamin A.

Keep your skin hydrated
Feed and nourish your skin. Think about what your skin goes through on a day to day basis: it wakes up, has a hot shower, is layered with makeup, taken into the cold winter air, blasted with central heating, blocked with dirt and pollution from the outside, and then (hopefully) washed and taken to bed ready for round two tomorrow. Treat it like it's won a medal for successfully being awesome throughout the day. Use a hydrating moisturiser morning and evening to boost hydration levels, replenish, restore and rebuild skin cells.

I hope this has educated you a little on the cause of ageing and possible actions we can put into place to help our skin out for as long as possible. Are you concerned with ageing? What do you do to delay the signs of ageing?

Written by Amy Bambrick
@amys_loves

Burt's Bees Launch NEW Lip Colour Collection (Shine, Gloss & Shimmer)

February 28, 2014, 3:57 am

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Burt's Bees lip balm is one product I can't live without. I love the smooth texture, the hydrating nature and the uplifting scent it provides as you add a slick to lips. Available in lots of different flavours, and even with tinted varieties, it's the perfect lip product for Spring. In an exciting move for the brand, Burt's Bees are expanding to their colour collection with a range of new products that include Lip Shimmers, Lip Glosses and Lip Shines. All three provide a different texture, a hit of colour and a smooth finish to make lips look and feel great, without compromising on their heritage of beeswax and natural ingredients.

The Lip Shine tubes provide a super shiny and glossy finish, with a texture that isn't sticky or gloopy. They glide over lips with a subtle sweet scent to leave them feeling fab, while the angled applicator minimises wastage and helps get the gloss exactly where you need it. The Lip Shimmer mini balms are great for carrying around, thanks to their super slim packaging and teeny tiny balm tip - these are perfect for touch-ups and for adding a subtle hint of colour and shimmer to otherwise naked lips. Including the iconic Burt's Bees scent and texture, these will be a firm favourite for those existing Burt's addicts.

What's most exciting though is the launch of the highly pigmented Lip Glosses, which provide a serious colour boost and a thick texture for longevity; they are quite sticky, but they stay on lips much longer to provide a great lipstick alternative. Each range is available in multiple shades, from nude right through to bright reds and deep berry colours, so there's something for everyone. All three varieties are 100% natural and contain fabulous incredients that include Jojoba, Sunflower and Botanical Oil - great for those of you concerned with what you're putting on your lips, considering the average person consumes around eight lipglosses a year.

Launching in May and affordably priced (starting at £5.99 for the Lip Balms up to £8.99 for the Lip Glosses,) it's great to see one of my favourite brands expanding into an arena that they're celebrated for. I didn't need an excuse to add more Burt's Bees to my collection, but this forthcoming launch has given me one anyway... Are you excited to see these available in a couple months?

Jojoba Esters, Sunflower Polyglycerides and Botanical Oil - See more at: http://www.reallyree.com/2014/02/burts-bees-lip-gloss-review-swatches.html#sthash.ZhkaMfRp.dpuf

The new collection launches in May and is priced £5.99-£8.99.

Gelicious: At-Home Gel Manicures (Featuring Little Prince George)

February 28, 2014, 7:43 am

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Gel Manicures are definitely the thing to beat at the moment, with everyone from Nails Inc to Models Own launching their 'gel inspired' polishes. Gel manicures applied in a salon can provide a durable and long-lasting nail result for up to four weeks, so it's not hard to understand the appeal. No chipping polish, messy nail varnish removal or trying to hide your hands in your pockets. However, gel manicures can become expensive if it's something you get addicted to; at around £30 a session, it's not a cheap hobby to keep up. I've tried a few at-home gel polish systems before in an attempt to replicate the benefit of a salon visit in my bedroom, but nothing has wowed me. When Gelicious offered to send me their system and put it to the test I couldn't say no. So will this Australian nail brand stand head and shoulders above the rest?

Unlike a lot of other gel systems, which involve a complicated process of applying different products in different layers, the Gelicious version is incredibly simple. It only involves the colour you're applying, a topcoat and a UV lamp to set the polish - no faffing or the need for a cosmetics degree. You simply clean and prepare the nails, apply a single coat of polish and cure it for one minute, repeat that process once more and apply a topcoat, before curing the nail under the lamp for a further two minutes. You can remove any excess oil and moisture using a simple nail varnish remover, and you're left with Gelicious nails.

The result is a smooth, perfectly finished nail that claims to stick around for up to two weeks. I used the Little Prince George polish (launched in celebration of Kate and Will's offspring,) which is a baby blue base that contains delicate flecks of white throughout. Unlike a lot of glittery and textured polishes that have the particles on the surface, this polish (and the gel process) allows them to sit in various layers for a more subtle and unique result. I really love the shade, when I expected to hate such a girlie colour and result.

My nails did look fab for a couple of days, no chips or flakes present at all. However, as I spend a lot of time typing and washing up (it's an addiction,) my polish did start to peel off after three days - to the point where I could get my nail under a corner and pull away the entire thing. Although this doesn't damage the nail at all, it is a little annoying that the polish started to come away in chunks and didn't last longer. However, as someone that gets their polish chipped within a matter of hours, any progression on that is a bonus.

The Gelicious system is simple, quick and effective. You don't need eight different products and bits of equipment, making it easy to add to your collection and continue to use the polish without having to replace little pads or conditioning treatments. The whole starter pack (including the lamp, colour of your choice and topcoat) is currently on offer for £66.96, which provides a saving on salon gel manicures if you use it only three times. The lamp is also big enough to fit your toes in too, ensuring you can be fit for the summer with tootsies that look hot for as long as possible.

Although it's certainly an investment, if you love having great nails then it's one that could pay off in the long run. They have a huge selection of colours (starting from £15.66 each,) so you can make sure you're keeping with the trends every season. Are you a fan of gel manicures? Would you consider investing in your own at-home system?

The Starter Kit is available online via the Gelicious website priced £66.96.

NEW: Clinique's Beautiful Floral 'Cheek Pop' Blush

March 1, 2014, 8:23 am

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It's March 1st, Spring has sprung and the sun is out to greet us. We're finally breaking away from long, dull, wet and cold days that have us curled up on the sofa with a box of chocolates and a DVD. Thanks to Clinique we can have a little makeup celebration too, with these fabulous Cheek Pop Blushers and their exquisite floral designs. Available in four wearable and universal shades, the little pops of colour will ensure you're looking peachy perfect and ready to see the sun. The blushers are highly pigmented and true-to-colour upon application, providing a 'just pinched' look to cheeks that's both subtle and natural.

The texture is silky smooth and provides a creamy-powder finish that is extremely easy to apply and blend into the cheekbones; these blushers don't flake or provide a dusting that's hard to work with, just a hit of colour that works perfectly with your skin. I do love that these look beautiful, yet actually provide what I really want: a natural finish and an easy to apply formula. They work best when applied with a flat stippling brush, buffed into the skin gently to build up colour. You only need a little amount, thanks to the high level of pigment, which means you can also savour the floral pan design for as long as possible - it doesn't break down at the first sign of a brush, because it's so compactly pressed with product.

These are definitely my new favourite blushers, especially as you can easily re-apply and build up colour throughout the day. The pink shade is my current favourite, providing 'just stepped in from a cold walk' cheeks, but the peach and bronze shade will definitely be keeping me company when it's summertime. The pink-purple isn't my personal cup of tea and is probably best reserved for darker or my olive skintones, but it's still a beautiful shade that could easily be used on the eyes or mixed with lipbalm on the lips. At £16.50 these are a great payday treat and something to make you smile, when the onset of snow hits us in the next few days...!

The Clinique 'Cheek Pops' are available online now via Clinique.com priced £16.50 each.

Bare Minerals 15th Birthday: Limited Edition Mineral Veil

March 2, 2014, 2:30 am

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It's hard to believe that Bare Minerals' much-loved Mineral Veil finishing powder is fifteen years old. For fifteen years we've all loved the translucent finishing touch of award-winning powder, providing a great result on all skin types. Not only does the powder absorb excess oil and help to minimise the appearance of fine lines and pores, but provides the skin with a touch of softness and light to ensure we're looking super healthy. As a lover of a powdered finish, especially as it sets makeup in place and removes any unsightly shininess, this is one product I do really like. However, the traditional 'open pot' format made it extremely difficult to use on the go or touch-up throughout the day. In celebration of this birthday milestone, Bare Minerals are launching a limited edition portable version that's perfect for popping in your handbag.

The twistable pot includes a 'flow through' brush which allows the Mineral Veil to subtly apply directly onto the skin, with no mess or fuss. It's so handy and a genius idea - I'm amazed nobody has thought of this before! It's so much better than a usual compact and puff/brush, as the product can be applied to the specific area without the need for two hands; you don't even have to look in a mirror! What's even better is this gadget is actually refillable too, meaning you can continue to enjoy using your favourite product in the most practical way. Once it runs out, why not even pop in your favourite bronzing powder so you're ready for summer? Once this launches in April, I'm tempted to stock up just so I can add all my highlighters, bronzers and powders into these genius little applicators.

The Limited Edition Mineral Veil launches in April priced £22.00.