Beauty

Beauty and haircare reviews and tips. Looking for the latest advice, guidance and thoughts on make up, haircare, skincare and perfume? You’ve come to the right place.

Christmas haul with Glossier ?

Christmas haul with Glossier review

I decided to treat myself this festive season with a little Glossier beauty haul gift from me, to me.

I have been tempted by these products for a while now and with Christmas around the corner, here’s what I decided to get:

Glossier You

I’ve wanted Glossier You for ages now. What drew me in was the idea that it seems to adapt depending on the wearer.

Firstly, its top note is a spicy pink pepper. Secondly, we have the heart of the perfume, woodsy and warm ambrette seeds, and ambery ambrox. Finally, a floral iris to complete the scent.

I really like it on. On me, Glossier You smells floral and very fresh. It’s an extremely complimentary perfume, especially in the daytime.

Futuredew

Futuredew is an oil-serum hybrid that leaves you with an enviable natural dewy glow. Packaged within a gorgeous holographic bottle, it’s used as the last step of your normal skincare routine and promises to last up to 12 hours.

Futuredew is full of nourishing oils and plant-based extracts to keep your skin moisturised and bright.

I have noticed an immediate difference and a bit of product goes a long way. My skin looks brighter and happier!

Cookie Butter Balm Dotcom

I was so psyched to try the limited edition Cookie Butter Balm Dotcom. This golden buttery lip balm offers a speculoos taste alongside a sparkling caramel shimmer.

Balm Dotcom hydrates your lips due to its formulation of antioxidants and natural emollients, such as castor oil, beeswax, and lanolin.

It’s sweet, spicy, and ultimately, delicious.

Boy Brow

I’ve bought Bow Brow in shade brown a few times now and I love it. It’s the perfect daytime eyebrow pomade. It ensures fluffy and defined brows with a buildable formula.

The brushable pomade is a creamy way that holds your eyebrow hairs in place delicately without clumping.

This conditioning formula contains oleic acid, lecithin, and soluble collagen.

It is available in five variants, including:

  • Blonde
  • Brown
  • Black
  • Auburn
  • Clear

You can get Boy Brow, Cookie Butter Balm Dotcom and Futuredew as a set, saving £9.

What’s your favourite Glossier product? Which is next on your shopping list?

Want to try Glossier for yourself, here’s a Glossier discount code for 10% off your order.

Check out my first impressions of Glossier

This post includes a referral link

My first impressions of Glossier ?

My first impressions Glossier makeup review | The LDN Gal

Glossier makeup review

I’ve heard mixed reviews about Glossier. It seems to be the marmite makeup brand for millennials – we either love or hate it.

The brands tagline? ‘Skincare and beauty products inspired by real life’. The brand promotes natural ‘IRL’ looks, demonstrated by a plethora of customer-generated pictures on their Instagram feed. It’s simple, they let their do the consumers do the talking.

The brand is pretty and simplistic, with a straightforward range and minimalist (often pretty-in-pink) packaging. But, are the products worth the hype?

Cloud Paint in Dusk review

Honestly, I love Cloud Paint. I can’t say anything bad about it. A little goes a long way despite the small tube size (tad annoying). A few dots along the cheekbones and a swish of a finger and you’re good to go.

First of all, I was concerned that Dusk may be too dark for me as a brownish nude shade. However, it’s super complimentary and gives a very natural sunkissed glow! To sum it up, I kind of want every shade now. 

Cloud Paint comes in six shades:

  • Dusk (brownish nude colour)
  • Storm (warm rose colour)
  • Dawn (sunny coral colour)
  • Puff (light cool pink colour)
  • Haze (deep berry colour)
  • Beam (soft peach colour)

Birthday Balm Dotcom review

Everyone raves about Balm Dotcom and in my opinion, for good reason. I tried the untinted Birthday balm dotcom and have to admit, it leaves your lips feeling sensational.

To start, it is really hydrating and leaves a nice subtle shimmer. A few people even asked if it plumps your lips! I don’t believe it does, but it certainly gives the illusion!

In conclusion, you need it in your life. The product can be used as either a lip balm or a skin salve. Although you probably wouldn’t want glittery elbows…

Balm dotcom comes in seven flavours:

  • Birthday Balm Dotcom
  • Original Balm Dotcom
  • Rose Balm Dotcom
  • Cherry Balm Dotcom
  • Mint Balm Dotcom
  • Coconut Balm Dotcom
  • Mango balm dotcom

Boy Brow in Brown review

I mean, Boy Brow is a good product and does what it says on the tin (tube). It’s the perfect daytime eyebrow pomade and leaves a complimentary dash of colour without going over the top. 

I usually prefer to use eyebrow powders over pomades, as I like my brows a little darker. Saying this, if you are going for a natural but definable look, you’re sorted. 

Boy Brow comes in four colours:

  • Brown
  • Clear
  • Black
  • Blond

Any negatives about Glossier?

To clarify, I am now a big fan of Glossier and will purchase from them again. However, there is a negative about the brand that irks me. That is to say, the amount of product in all of the above seems to be lacking. Therefore, I really can’t see these products lasting more than three months with daily use. Undoubtedly, this is a tad annoying. 

However, if you are into a brand that will give you a gorgeous and buildable natural look. Look no further than Glossier. Above all, invest in Balm Dotcom ASAP.

If you’re interested in trying Glossier yourself, here’s a Glossier discount code for 10% off your order.

Have you tried Glossier? If not, what would be your go-to product?

Stephanie xox

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Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary ✨

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | skincare collection | The LDN Gal

The Ordinary skincare review

The Ordinary has been making waves in the skincare and beauty world for a while now. The company came to the forefront of people’s mind when now deceased co-CEO, Brandon Trueaxe, announced in a meltdown post that the company and its sister company, Deciem, would be closing down in October 2018.

Alas, this was not the case – thankfully. Brandon’s visionary influence on the brand has enabled it to thrive.

Feeling indulgent I decided to have an oh so affordable splurge on ASOS. not only are The Ordinary products cruelty free, they are quite simply fantastic. I fell in love with the minimalistic packaging, the transparency of ingredients and their wonderful properties and ethos.

Its clinical skincare and beauty formulations feature “nourishing oils and innovative serums that are free of parabens, sulphates and mineral oils.”

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | skincare collection oils | The LDN Gal

My The Ordinary skincare overhaul included the following products:

So, what do I think of The Ordinary skincare?

I decided to test the following throughout the week prior to review. Here’s what I loved:

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary - The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA 30ml - The LDN Gal

The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA review

I have normal/slightly dry skin. So, for me, a hydrating moisturiser is a must. The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA provides just that. It is a light cream that offers instant absorption and hydration, day or night. It doesn’t feel sticky or overly heavy on the skin.

This particular moisturiser contains 11 amino acids, working collaboratively to smooth, brighten and protect. I’ve been using it morning and night (except on the mornings I use the primer) and I have found my skin left feeling a lot softer and brighter.

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer review | The LDN Gal

The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer review

I always love a new primer. There is nothing nicer than finding a product that brings your skin and make-up to life. This primer does just that, offering a hydrating application and sought after matte finish. I skipped my morning moisturiser on that days that I used this, and my face still felt incredible without it. My make-up applied and stayed like a dream, and my skin didn’t feel whacked after a days coverage. 

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil review | The LDN Gal

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil review

It is no secret that argan oil is a skincare and haircare wonder product. This organic argan oil contains oleic and linoleic fatty acids, known for their protective and smoothing properties.

I used this oil on my skin and hair, applying a few drops to every other evening after my normal skincare routine. On the skin, I found it a lot thicker than the other oils featured and preferred using The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane instead.  Saying this, it helped to dull any dry patches (this weather eh?) and gave my skin a wonderful glow. Although it is a slightly thicker oil, it doesn’t clog up pores or feel overly greasy. I’d say, use it a few times a week if your skin is particularly dry. 

On the other hand, using this on my hair has left it feeling sensational. If you are looking for something to give your hair smoothness and shine, argan oil is the way forward.

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | The Ordinary | 100% Plant-Derived Squalane review | The LDN Gal

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane review

As explained, I have fallen head over heels for the 100% plant-derived squalane. This oil-based product is so lightweight and smooth. Used daily, you feel an instant difference in terms of hydration and brightness. It left my skin feeling soft and supple, working so well combined with the moisturiser. It is now part of my daily routine.

Interestingly, it can also be used on your hair to offer heat protection.

Reinventing my skincare routine with The Ordinary | The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane review | The LDN Gal

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane review

I am not a skincare junkie so embarrassingly, I am not overly au fait with the retinol hype. Keeping it simple, retinol works to rejuvenate the skin, targeting fine lines and other signs of ageing.

Saying this, many skincare experts advise that you start with the lowest dosage of retinol and build your tolerance slowly over time. Retinol is not suited to all skin types and fortunately, I found that this product worked really well for me. My skin is hydrated and fine lines are visibly reduced. I used it in my t-zone predominatly a few times a week. I found this anti-ageing oil was best applied in the evening before night creams.

So, there you have it! I have to admit, The Ordinary products will be remaining a skincare staple for me. Affordable and efficient, there really is nothing like bright and hydrated skin to put you in a fabulous mood!

Have you ever tried any The Ordinary products? Which items would you choose from the above?

Stephanie xox

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Why you need the ZOE QYKSonic facial cleansing device now ?

ZOE QYKSonic facial cleansing device review

Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device review

I have to admit, this is the first time I have tried a facial cleansing device. So, I wasn’t overly sure what to expect with the Zoe QYK Sonic facial cleansing device.

The Zoe is as vibrant in colour as it is beautiful – but does it actually work?

Its unique petal-shaped design may be pretty, but we’re here to find out if it packs a punch. Available in five gorgeous colours, the Zoe’s silicone bristles work at over 6000 pulsations per minute, to target every nook and cranny.

The gentle massaging bristles ensure no irritation to your skin and work in motion to clean and minimise pores, eliminate blemishes and target wrinkles. This super swift circulation movement works to gently cleanse your face, exfoliating any make up, dirt, or oil that may clog up your pores and cause imperfections.

The Zoe offers 300 uses in a single charge, alongside 15 alternating massage settings when in use. It is perfect for all skin-types due to its medical grade and hygienic antimicrobial silicone exterior.

So, what did I think of the Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device

Using a sonic facial cleansing device ensures that no nasties are touching your face. It can be used easily alongside your favourite skin care cleansers, serums, masks and moisturisers. Using it with my favourite cleanser, it certainly made a difference – shifting away my daily make up and grime.

Not only is Zoe effective, but she is packaged beautifully. Sealed within a magnetic box, the facial cleansing device is presented alongside a matching drawstring bag and USB charger.

Its compact size also means it’s great for on the go – so you never have to miss out on your nightly skin care routine! 

So, if you are looking for a product that offers deep and effective cleaning, look no further than the Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device.

Have you used a cleansing device before? What is your skin care regime like?  

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with QYKSonic

Revolution Pro launch and 4th birthday ??

Revolution Beauty London party - Marylebone, London

Revolution Pro launch

Last Thursday I had a very exciting evening indeed. I attended the Makeup Revolution 4th birthday and launch of Revolution Beauty London (formerly Makeup Revolution) and their newest range.

It was a fabulous affair, with hundreds of bloggers in attendance, beauty adorning every corner and delicious food and drinks. It was a night embellished with cocktails, chatter and fun.

Plus, I got to meet some absolutely wonderful girls and guys in the process.

Revolution Beauty London party interior - Marylebone, London Revolution Beauty London party - Coloured bao buns - Marylebone, London Revolution Beauty London party - I heart Revolution - Marylebone, London

So, what do I think of Revolution Pro?

Most excitingly, the launch of Revolution Pro was announced with a stunning new collection which includes:

  • Foundation drops (18 shades)
  • Foundation mixers (4 types)
  • Full colour camoflague foundation and concealer (18 shades each)
  • Primers (10 types)
  • Supreme highlighter (3 shades)
  • Eyebrow cushion (8 shades)
  • Supreme eyeshadow palettes (4 types)
  • Regeneration palettes (9 types)
  • Supreme matte lip pigment (30 shades)

I simply cannot wait to make my way through the new collection and have already treated myself to the gorgeous Revolution Pro Regeneration Palette in Trends Celestial.

Expect a mini-haul any day now! You can check out the Revolution Pro video here.

What do you think of Revolution Pro? Which items will you be snapping up? 

Stephanie xox

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