SS15 NAILS INC BLOSSOM

NAILS INC have launched 'Blossom Collection' for Spring Summer 2015. A spring bloom of four polishes inspired by the beauty of blossom trees around the world - the epitome of springtime. The blend of fine white particles and blossom-like hues can be worn on their own, or over a favourite spring pastel. This Blossom Collection includes:

CHERRY GARDEN STREET - apricot, hot pink and white

BLOOMSBURY WAY - baby blue, candy floss pink and white

COVENT GARDEN MEWS - pale green and pale pink

COLUMBIA ROAD - lilac, hot pink and white

NAILS INC BLOSSOM polishes cost £14 and are available from Boots, John Lewis & Look Fantastic. What are your favourite Spring time nail polishes?

MELVITA L’OR ROSE Slimming Oil

Melvita L'Or Rose Firming Oil combines effective action with the luxury of a divine massage ritual that visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite for firmer, smoother skin this summer. The dry oil is the No1 best seller in French pharmacies and since launching in France in April 2014, 13,834 have been sold, which adds up to the height on 6.5 Eiffel Towers! 

This naturally effective dry-oil can be massaged into the skin following the shower in place of body lotion. For best results, apply L'Or Rose twice daily, massaging into the skin with circular motions, starting at the lower thighs and working up to the hips. To maximise the skin firming benefits, and boost penetration, exfoliate the skin before applying, or use a body brush to break down fatty deposits. The oil nourishes, hydrates, has a delicate scent and an incredibly soft, dry-oil feel.

The scent of L'Or Rose combines zesty top notes of Pink Pepper, Lemon and Bergamot; floral heart notes of lavender, spearmint and peony and a base of White Iris, Vetiver and Ambrette seeds.

The product tackles the appearance of cellulite working on lipolysis and lipogenesis, after using the product, adipocytes size will decrease, releasing the 'pressure' on vessels. The product contains powerful organic actives: the combination of Pink Berries, Sea Buckthorn and Black Pepper helps to fight lipogenesis and boasts lipolysis. Meltiva was inspired to use Pink Berry oil which has a slimming and detoxifying property and boosts microcirculation and promotes drainage. 

Sea Buckthorn seed oil helps waste drainage and facilities the elimination of toxins and is rich in Vitamin E for softer, supple skin. Black Pepper oil is known for stimulating blood circulation and promotes the breakdown of adipocytes. Rosehip oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid and helps to revitalise and moisturise skin and improve elasticity. 99% of the ingredients are from natural origin and 36% of the ingredients are from Organic Farming.

Melvita conducted a study and after 14 days 83% of women said their skin seemed smoother and after 28 days, 69% of women noticed a reduction in the visible appearance of cellulite and 79% of women said they would recommend the firming oil to a friend.

Melvita L'Or Rose Firming Oil is priced at £30 for 100ml and is available at John Lewis

QVC Exclusive: Benefit Do the Hoola

QVC launches Benefit's first ever liquid bronzer: Dew the Hoola with a brand new exclusive bronzing kit: Do the Hoola. 

Following on from the UK's number one selling bronze powder, Benefit has introduced Dew the Hoola, a sheer liquid bronzer that seamlessly blends into the skin. Dew the Hoola is the most natural looking, matte bronze complexion enhancer, that can be worn alone, layered under the Hoola powder or even applied as a finishing touch over foundation. 

On 9th April 2015, QVC will be launching the exclusive Do the Hoola kit from Beenfit which includes the first ever liquid Hoola Bronzer - Dew the Hoola.  

This exclusive Do the Hoola kit features an iconic tint Benebalm and the Hoola Ultra Plush gloss that both conditions and hydrates the lips for the softest sexiest pout! The collection also includes the number one selling They're Real mascara, as well as the UK;s number one selling bronze powder Hoola, and the brand liquid new Dew the Hoola. 

QVC Exclusive: Benefit Do the Hoola is priced at £25.50 and available from www.qvcuk.com

ARK Derriere Facial

I recently visited ARK Skincare's flagship salon in Putney to try out their new 'Derriere Facial'. Yes, thats a facial for your bottom - which has become the latest beauty craze in the US! ARK Skincare is renowned for its signature 'Cleavage Facial' and due to client demand for a treatment to clarify and firm the bottom have introduced a 'Derriere Facial' to get your bum ready for the beach.

I was given paper knickers to wear and I felt totally comfortable as I was wrapped up in towels and blankets during the treatment. The therapist only works on one area at a time rather than leaving you fully exposed. The treatment beds are super comfortable complete with an arm rest. 

The ARK Derriere Facial began with a foot cleanse and then body brushing over my legs, thighs and bottom to boost circulation and help diminish the look of cellulite. 

A treatment cleanser is then worked into the skin to purify and restore skin’s optimal moisture balance. The skin is smoothed and clarified with the ARK Invigorating Body Scrub, which contains natural loofah, fruit acids and invigorating menthol to lift away dead skin cells and unblock pores.

After steaming the skin, the bottom and legs are expertly massaged with a blend of SkinResponse Serums to lift, firm and purify the skin. The bottom is then treated to a skin clearing or firming masque, while the feet are pampered with a heavenly aromatherapy massage. 

The treatment was finished with application of a skin smoothing Nourishing Body Lotion to leave skin plump, soft and radiant. This innovative treatment can be tailored to target specific skin concerns such as spots, uneven skin tone, cellulite and loss of elasticity. Afterwards, I was not rushed and was told to take my time to relax and drink peppermint tea. 

I found the treatment to be so relaxing I almost fell asleep and my skin has never felt so soft - often we neglect the bottom and thigh area! For total beach body confidence, the ARK Derriere Facial is the perfect pre-holiday pamper treat to give you the courage to wear that Brazilian thong bikini this Summer. I just need to book a holiday now!

The ARK Derriere Facial costs £49 for a 45 minute treatment and is available at the ARK Flagship Salon in Putney. 

SUN, SEA & SAND BIRCHBOX JULY 2014

This month's BIRCHBOX is Sun, Sea & Sand themed to celebrate the summer season. Birchbox helps you find beauty and lifestyle products that you'll love. It is a monthly subscription service, that you pay £10 per month plus postage for 5 luxe samples delivered to your door presented in a nice box and drawstring bag along with a mini magazine that is packed with editors tops and tricks. You can cancel at anytime and they offer a money back guarantee!  

Weleda Millet Nourishing Shampoo 

I have tried a few Weleda products and always been impressed but not yet tried their haircare but I have heard good things! This is a natural organic fortifying shampoo which I am excited to try out and it's also a handy size for travelling.

Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream 
I have already tried this eye cream from another beauty box and I was impressed, so I'm pleased to have another!   

LAQA & Co Sheer Lip Lube Pencil 
Not heard of this brand before but happy to try this chunky lip pencil! I received the shade 'Bees Knees' which looks like a bright peach, but the colour payoff is quite sheer and high shine!

Gilchrist & Soames English Spa Sea Kelp Extract Mineral Bath 

Delightful foamy gel containing marine nutrient sea kelp to invigorate the skin. This is another brand I'm not familiar with but happy to try!

Whish Three Whishes Lavender Body Butter

This is a sweet scented antioxidant-rich lotion to nourish skin. Unfortunately I'm not keen on this scent at all, definitely doesn't smell of lavender more fruity!

Ultradex Oral Spray *Lifestyle Extra* 
Handbag-friendly spray that kills harmful bacteria and keeps breath minty-fresh, what's more to say!

Visit Birchbox to find out more and you can get free delivery on your first box with the code NEW14. Are you a BIRCHBOX subscriber? I didn't find the contents of this month's box very thrilling, what do you think to this month's contents?

Free Pedicures at Scholl Express Pedi Beach!

Pop down the the Scholl Express Pedi Beach at Westfield White City London (Shepherd's Bush) this weekend for a free pedicure! Scholl are treating shoppers to a free express pedicure using the latest Scholl Velvet Smooth foot care range on their pop up  sandy beach. The official ‘feet’ of Scholl, Abbey Clancy opened the sandy beach yesterday and the beach will run until 6pm on Sunday 20th July. No need to book in just line up! 

GLOSSYBOX Stars & Stripes July 2014

GLOSSYBOX has gone stateside with a special edition 'Stars and Stripes' themed box this month. The box showcases the best transatlantic beauty discoveries from brands across the pond. Inside the box...

Carmex Lip Balm (*full size* worth £2.69)

Loved by celebrities and makeup artists all over the world, Carmex is the original lip balm and the only way to soothe dry, chapped lips. This handbag staple contains menthol, camphor and beeswax, lips are nourished, conditioned and protected from the elements all year round. 

Color Club Glossy Seal (*full size* worth £5) 

Colour Club nail polish is proudly made in New York with only non-toxic, cruelty free ingredients. This shade Glossy Seal has been exclusively formulated for Glossybox. 

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4 in 1 mascara (worth £9.50)

I've heard so much hype around this mascara so I'm very happy to receive this mini version to try. It is claimed by many to be their hero mascara with conditioning properties that helps to lengthen, curl, create volume and healthy, longer lashes all in one. This 4-in-1 mascara is dermatologist and clinically proven to increase the appearance of lash volume! 

Bellapierre Cosmetics Mineral Lipstick (*full size* worth £20)

This cult American favourite is formulated with natural waxes, mineral pigments and antioxidants including Vitamin C and Vitamin E, providing long lasting colour and protection against the sun. I adore the orangey-red shade 'Mandarina' I received and look forward to trying however, it seems very expensive for a lipstick!

Absolute New York Perfecting Eyeshadow Primer (*full size* worth £2.50)

This oil-free, ultra creamy formula evens skin tone around the eye area and keeps eyeshadow crease-free and colour-true for a lasting look. This is not a brand I'm familiar with and don't tend to use eye primers so I shall pass this onto a friend to try. 

This month's box had a nice selection of products and I loved the American theme, four of five were full size. I have totted up the value of the products and it comes to roughly £39.69 which for £10 (plus £2.95 P&P) is not bad! I am most pleased and excited about the mascara and lipstick! You can find out more and order your own GLOSSYBOX here. 

What do you think of this month's GLOSSYBOX? Did you receive anything different to mine? Are you a GLOSSYBOX subscriber?

GLOSSYBOX July 2013

It's been ages since I last posted about GLOSSYBOX,  in fact I have been very slack in posting full stop. I find it hard to find the time to blog since moving to London which is very sad but I'm going to try and aim to blog more regularly.

When I arrived home on Tuesday, I was greeted with July and August GLOSSYBOX. I'll start with July's themed box which was Seaside Splash and as usual the products come beautifully packaged in a limited edition blue box with seashells print tissue, white shredded tissue and sticker to fit with the theme.

What's in this month's box.....

ALTERNA HAIRCARE Bamboo Style Tousled Texture Mist (worth £4.60)
Unlike other texturizing sprays I've tried this one is non-sticky which is perfect for creating that natural, tousled 'just-back-from-the-beach' waves. It adds texture, volume and shine and can be used on wet or dry hair. This isn't a brand I'm familiar with but I am happy to discover as I find most salt sprays drying on the hair.

COOLA ORGANIC SUNCARE Face SPF20 (worth £4.19)
This Face SPF is unscented, hypoallergenic, free of parabens and full of antioxidants. It provides complete UVA/UVB protection and fights free radicals, whilst soothing, toning and minimizing pores. This is perfect to pop in my bag this summer to protect my skin from the rays.

INECTO PURE COCONUT Dry Shampoo (*Full Size* worth £2.49)
I normally hate the sickly scent of dry shampoo but this version smells of coconut! It is really good value for money and feels more moisturising compared to other dry shampoos I've tried. Thumbs up!

CIATE Paint Pot  (*Full Size* worth £9)

I love Ciate paint pots, they are such good quality, long lasting and the bottles are super cute. I received the shade 'Mistress' which is a classic red which is perfect for Summer to wear on both the fingers and toes.

ILA SPA Face Oil (worth £4.37)

I'm excited to try this facial oil as it's just my thing! The oil is hand-blended in The Cotswolds and contains wild-grown Argan Oil, rosehip seed oil and Vitamin E oil. It promises to repair skin cells and combat premature ageing and leave a healthy glow to the face.

This month's box contained a good mix of products, all perfect for summer, two of which were full size. I have totted up the value of the products and it comes to roughly £24.65 which for £10 (plus £2.95 P&P) is not bad! I am most pleased and excited about the Face Oil and dry shampoo! You can find out more and order your own GLOSSYBOX here.
 
What do you think of this month's GLOSSYBOX? Did you receive anything different to mine? Are you a GLOSSYBOX subscriber?

Summer Work Wear Solutions

There might be sunshine outside and thoughts are turning to summer holidays but unfortunately at some point we might just have to fit in some work! Most of us will have to swap swimsuits with skirts and work wear over summer though so you're not alone. Choosing comfortable clothes though that will help us keep our cool and still look professional will help summer go with a swing.
Call it a wrap - You just can't beat a jersey dress for a practical solution to work. The Blossom Print Tulip Wrap Dress is the ultimate in figure friendly design. With its wrap detail it pulls in accentuating your waistline and gently flares at the knee. With its pretty floral design it's a softer look than the classic black for the office.

Dressed to the maxi - Maxi dresses are another option that can be dressed up or down to suit your office dress code. Keep it professional with smart shoes and a simple shrug or cardigan. The Plain Jersey Knot Front Maxi Dress is a simple design that you can add colour to with accessories and cardigan. Practical, stylish and comfortable - what more could you ask for?

Cream of the Crop - Cropped trousers have been everywhere this year and they're a great choice for summer work wear. Forget the thick black trousers and opt for something lighter in style. The Tailored Cropped Trousers are a smart choice that will help you keep your cool. Pair them with pretty ballerina pumps and an elegant blouse for a completely chic and summery office look.

Lovely linen - At the height of summer linen is the perfect fabric for helping you keep your cool. The Plain Linen Skirt is a great basic that will keep you going through summer. It is equally at home with small heels or flats and with its flared design looks great with a fitted top.

Top it off - Simple jersey t-shirts are a simple and practical choice for the office. They're great value for money and are some of the hardest working pieces in your wardrobe. The Daisy Lace T-Shirt with its delicate detail is just enough to add interest without being overpowering. Blouses are a classic choice too that can offer a smarter look that's perfect for a more formal work environment. The Short Sleeve Spotted Blouse is a fitted top that will work beautifully with cropped trousers.

What are you enjoying to wear for work this Summer?

#Bootscamp Twitter Party Storify

The #Bootscamp Twitter Party that I hosted this week was very successful, we shared so many great tips, gave away some great prizes and the hashtag #bootscamp trended! If you want any further information on Bootscamp, you can visit www.boots.com/bootscamp. We have pulled together a Storify of the Tweets from the party so thought I would share:

#Bootscamp Twitter Party!

Today is the Day! From 1-2pm we will be tweeting all things beauty at the #bootscamp Twitter Party! Make sure you follow myself @perfectpolished and @NatalyaFGM and share your Summer Beauty Tips and ask the experts your questions using the hashtag #bootscamp to win some fab goodies!

Will you be joining us?

#bootscamp Twitter party Terms and Conditions
• This #bootscamp Twitter party give-away is free to enter and no purchase is necessary
• It is open to residents of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man), excluding employees and their families of the Promoter, its associated, affiliated or subsidiary companies and agents or anyone professionally connected with the promotion
• Participants must be 18 years or over
• Everyone who uses the hashtag #bootscamp will automatically be entered into the draw to win
• All winners will have used the hashtag #bootscampwith either a great tip for beauty, hair or makeup this summer or with a question for the Boots Camp experts
• All winners must be following either @PerfectPolished or @NatalyaFGM
• It is a condition of entry that all postings are subject to the terms and conditions. Submission of a posting will be taken to mean acceptance of the above rules and terms and conditions
• You can open a FREE twitter account here: www.twitter.com
• All entries must take place between 13:00 and 14:00 on Wednesday 12th June 2013
• Winners will be notified via DM to the Twitter account they used for the party. They have 48 hours to respond and claim their goodie bag after being notified, after which time the goodie bag will be considered unclaimed and will be re-assigned using a random selection method
• The Promoter may vary or amend the promotion at its absolute discretion
• The Promoters accept no responsibility for technical difficulties which may result in tweets not appearing in the Twitter stream as viewed via Twitter.com and therefore not eligible
• The Promoter is Boots UK Limited. Registered office: Nottingham NG2 3A
• Tweets with the Party hashtag(s) may be used in promotional materials for Boots, used on Twitter,Facebook, Google+, Pinterest and other social media platforms
• Participation will be taken as agreement for use of material in this way
• Events may occur that render the competition itself or the awarding of a gift impossible due to reasons beyond the control of the Promoter and accordingly the Promoter may at its absolute discretion vary or amend the promotion and the entrant agrees that no liability shall attach to the Promoter as a result thereof.

You've Invited to Get Out There #bootscamp Twitter Party!

I am excited to announce that I am hosting a Twitter Party next week along with Makeup Artist Daniel Sandler (@danielsandler) and Natalya from Filthy Gorgeous Makeup (@NatalyaFGM)! Join us on Wednesday 12th June between 1pm-2pm over on Twitter @perfectpolished when we will be sharing our makeup and hair tips and trends for Spring/Summer. 

Myself and Natalya will be answering your personal summer style questions and sharing advice on how to look and feel confident and gorgeous this summer! We shall be joined by Charles Worthington's Art Team Director @MarcTrinder and International Makeup Artist @danielsandler along with Skin Finishing Expert at St Tropez @jules_sttropez. 

Throughout the hour we shall be giving away six goodie bags crammed full of fabulous products inspired by Boots Camp. To be in with a chance of receiving one, make sure you share your top hints and tips for making the most of summer including the hashtag #bootscamp and we'll pick our favourites! Follow @perfectpolished and @NatalyaFGM to join in with the Twitter Party and tweet us your tips and questions using the hashtag #bootscamp So Come and join in the #bootscamp fun and let's get out there this Summer!

Boots Camp is an online destination for customers that will be integrated with the summer tab on Boots.com. Boots Camp is a place to go to help you get ready to get out there this summer and is full of inspiring hints, tips, tricks and offers categorized into six steps to help you make the most of summer. Launching on 12th June it will run for 12 weeks throughout the summer and there are six steps of Boots camp:

· Dare to bare: Make the most of your legs, arms and all your other bits so you feel confident before you get them out there for the first time this summer. Everything you need to help you look and feel fabulous from top to toe

· Sun-up to sundown beauty: New ways to wear your hair, get stunning nails, and experiment with your make-up looks. Perfect for summer from dusk till dawn

· Protect in style: Make the most of every last drop of sunshine with some great new sunnies this summer and discover how to keep eyes healthy and prevent signs of aging

· Glow your own way: Find out how to get and keep that perfect glow throughout the summer

· Go al fresco: Everything you need for an al fresco day out so you can enjoy it all come rain or shine

· Raring to go: Everything you need to make sure you’re ready to get out there on holiday

Will you be joining us for the #bootscamp Twitter Party?

Win a month's supply of Innocent Smoothies & Invite to Summer Picnic

Fancy winning a month's supply of Innocent Smoothies & a pair of tickets to Innocent Inspires Summer Picnic in June? Then read on....

Innocent Inspires is a series of one-off events where people will discuss, debate and be inspired by the values we believe in with the help of a group of interesting people who do brilliant things each day.

Learn how to leave the world a little better than you find it and step inside the innocent inspires yurt for an evening to discuss some of the things we can do to make a positive difference. Discuss how to lead a stylish and sustainable life with model Laura Bailey, whilst eating a delicious picnic!

Where: The Innocent Yurt, Princess Park, Mackenzie Road, N7 in London

Date/Time: Wednesday 19th June 2013 7pm

Up for grabs is a month's supply of Innocent Smoothies & a pair of tickets to the picnic on Wednesday 19th June 2013, simply follow the steps in the Rafflecopter below! The giveaway is open to Perfectly Polished readers (through GFC) and will close on 18th June 2013 midnight UK time and you can enter below following the steps in the Rafflecopter (you have to click on 'read more' for the Rafflecopter box to appear...) Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TOWIE Lucy Mecklenburgh launches Fur Real Tan!

When I first read that The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE) star Lucy Mecklenburgh was teaming up with UK bingo website Foxy Bingo to launch a new fake tan called ‘Fur Real’ I thought it must be a joke! But apparently not...Lucy has helped design the new self tanning gel which launches after Foxy's perfume was released last year.

Lucy says, “The only celeb who rocks orange better than me is Foxy himself! I’ve already got my own swimwear range and nothing compliments my designs better than a nice tan. I don’t step out the house until I’ve got my Essex glow and with Fur Real, everyone else can have it too!”

Fur Real is priced at £9.99 and although Lucy looks nice and bronzed in the promo images it doesn't sound appealing! Is this the cheesiest TOWIE collaboration yet?! 

Five Witch Skincare Festival Sets to be won!

Asha Randall, the GBR synchronised swimming starlet, keeps her skin looking as smooth as her routine with the Witch Skincare range containing caring witch hazel extract, a natural astringent and anti-flammatory to help clarify the skin to keep it looking its best (available from Boots , Superdrug and Sainsbury's). If you would like to try the Witch Skincare range yourself, or are lucky enough to be heading to a festival this summer and fancy winning some new skincare to take with you then read on! 

I have teamed up with Witch Skincare to celebrate the Olympics and Festival Season to giveaway five skincare sets to five lucky Perfectly Polished readers by simply following the steps in the Rafflecopter below! The kits shall include a Blemish Stick, Exfoliating Face Wash and Cleansing and Toning Wipes. 

The giveaway is open to Perfectly Polished readers (through GFC) from UK only and will close on 31st August 2012 midnight UK time and you can enter below following the steps in the Rafflecopter (you have to click on 'read more' for the Rafflecopter box to appear...)

Good Luck! X

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Models Own WAH Nails Instant Nail Art Wraps

Dalston-based WAH Nails latest collaboration with Beauty Brand Models Own feature six carbon copies of their most popular nail art designs including the romantic summer floral print, edgy neon leopard and the signature 'Pow' design. Here I have applied their Rose design wraps which I applied directly to my nails, folded the remaining excess edge over and filed down using the Models Own nail file that comes with the pack. 

Make sure you smooth the wrap firmly over the nail to prevent air bubbles and the wraps can last up to 7 days and simply peel off - best of all there's no drying time! Models Own WAH Nails Instant Nail Art is priced at £7 per pack and available from ASOS and Boots. What do you think to my Rose Nail Art?

Summer beauty tips: How to perfect your skin

Do you suffer from spots, acne and blemishes? Is your skin looking dull, dry and lifeless? If so, it’s time to revamp your appearance and revitalise your complexion – here’s how:


Exfoliate on a Regular Basis:
Exfoliation is an ancient beauty technique that can improve the top surface of the skin – so get hold of an exfoliating shower gel and start scrubbing. Simply rub your body from head-to-toe (using small, circular movements) and wash the bubbles away using lukewarm water. This will get rid of all the dead skin cells blocking your pores and will leave you feeling fresh, vibrant and energised. If you’ve got a little cash to spare, a glycolic facial peel can also work wonders, so why not give it a go?

Use a Decent Moisturiser:
Dry, flaky skin can become tight and irritable, so keep it well-hydrated at all times. Buy a decent moisturiser from your local beauty store and massage it into your skin after a bath or shower. Reapply the product several times a day and make sure all scaly, cracked or red areas are nice and soft. If you have eczema or psoriasis, you may need a steroid cream or a more intensive moisturiser, but speak to your health care provider to see what they recommend.


Keep your Body Well-Hydrated:
According to the NHS Choices website, water makes up over two-thirds of the healthy human body –so it’s important to drink around two litres of water a day. This will keep your body healthy and will help all your organs (including your skin) stay in the best condition possible. Avoid fizzy, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks if you can and stick to water, milk, diluted squash or fruit juices.


Wear Sun Cream:
The sun’s UV rays can cause cancer, sun spots and wrinkles – so apply a decent sun cream
throughout the year. Choose a product with an SPF of at least 30 and rub it into all exposed areas of skin, including your nose, ears and toes (as these areas burn easily). Remember, the sun can shine through the clouds and catch you out, so wear sun cream all year round – even on a grey, rainy day.


Eat your five a day:
Vitamins A, B, C and E are all crucial for keeping the skin cells healthy, so get your five a day. Munch on a delicious apple or a juicy peach and eat several vegetables as part of your evening meal. If you don’t like fruit and veg on their own, try making a tangy fruit smoothie or knock up a mouth-watering vegetable soup for lunch. Vary the foods you eat on a day-to-day basis and you should get the vitamins and nutrients your need to look (and feel) great.


There are many non-surgical treatments available to improve your skin at cosmetic surgery clinics in the UK, but you can always start with the simple things first to bring your skin to life. Take care of your skin this summer and enjoy a radiant complexion always. What are your summer beauty tips?

GLOSSYBOX July 2012

I arrived home last night to my July GLOSSYBOX and as usual the products came beautifully packaged as normal using a pale pink box with black tissue paper with and pink ribbon. With Festival season upon us, this month's box is full of festival beauty essentials to get you glam in an instant. You can save 15% off by visiting GLOSSYBOX and entering the code AFFJULY15OFF at the checkout (ends 31/7/12).

BEX LONDON Londoner Urban Fragrance (worth £1.62)
This is a brand I was unaware of until now, this is a highly concentrated, modern fragrance, inspired by the unique character and idiosyncrasies of London. I received the SE1 Urban Fragrance which is an unusual and spicy scent and I'd say is more of a unisex fragrance. This reminds me of the unusual perfumes you find in Liberty London but I can't believe the full size price is £81 - little steep if you ask me!

Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Moisture Mist (worth £3.70)
Give thirsty hair and skin the moisture they crave this spray helps you feel refreshed all day long. I have really enjoyed using the Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Treatment so have high hopes for this spray, it's also handy for taking away when travelling as all my hair styling products tend to be on the large size!

MONU Eye Cool Gel (full size worth £16.95)
This refreshing gel instantly revives and tones tired eyes, reduces puffiness and dark circles. I am really excited to try this as I absolutely adored the Monu moisturiser that I tried (you can read my product rave here) so have high hopes this will be just as good. This is a full size product and it is quite a generous size for an eye gel.

Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics Lip Frosting (full size worth £10)
I have tried this product before - it's a Multi-functional cream gloss - use on lips for a tint of colour or cheeks for a luminous glow. It smells just like Strawberry Calpol and I love using on the apples of my cheeks to create a healthy shiny glow.

NUXE Nuile Prodigieuse (worth £3.50)
I have been wanting to try this dry oil for so long so very happy to receive this! Apply this dry oil to your face, body and hair all year round to nourish, repair and soften. Can't wait to try this out!

*Bonus* Elizabeth Arden's Visible Difference Gentle Hydrating Skincare
3 sample sachets of Elizabeth Arden's Gentle Hydrating Skincare - cleanser, serum and cream; plus if you show the Glossybox Card at any Debenhams Elizabeth Arden counter you will receive a free deluxe sample. It is quite nice they have thrown in a bonus item as I feel that perfume samples shouldn't be classed as one of the 5 items as this is something you can usually pick up for free on a perfume counter.









This month's box contained two full size products plus a bonus item and I have totted up the value of the products and it comes to roughly £35.77 which for £10 (plus £2.95 P&P) is great value! I am most excited about the NUXE Dry oil as it's something that I have been wanting to try for a while and I'm curious to try the Monu eye gel as I loved the moisturiser so much so have high expectations that this will be equally as good! You can find out more and order your own GLOSSYBOX here. You can save 15% off by visiting GLOSSYBOX and entering the code AFFJULY15OFF at the checkout (ends 31/7/12).

What do you think of this month's GLOSSYBOX? Did you receive anything different to mine?

Chanel Spring Harmony for S/S 2012

Since summer is finally here I thought I would share Chanel's spring 2012 Spring Harmony beauty collection inspired by the first light of dawn, streaked with pink clouds in hazy contours, the collection is an arresting array of pinks, red, corals and golds. Their new spring/summer 2012 Les Vernis nail colours named April, May and June. April is a rich fuchsia, June a summery tangerine and May is a pretty shell pink and a Pearly White Polish called 'Attraction'. 

The collection is available now from Boots, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Selfridges & John Lewis priced at £18 each. Are you a fan of Chanel polishes?  

Review: Braun Silk-epil 5 Epilator

I was sent the new Braun Silk Epil 5 (Model Number 5180 for Legs) to try out a few weeks ago so now I'm 'Summer Ready' - but unfortunately in the UK there hasn't been any Sun to bare my silky smooth Legs! I first used a Braun Epilator around 6 years ago when it was first launched and have to say the design has improved greatly the epilator is slimmer and less bulky, comes in a nice clean white and violet colour and more importantly it hurts a lot less than I remember!

The Braun Silk-épil 5 epilator is perfect for women who are new to epilating, it removes hairs as short as 0.5mm and comes with a special comfort system, stimulating the skin for an even gentler epilation. Epilating is an increasingly popular method of hair removal amongst women who want the smooth, long lasting effects of waxing but who don’t want to have those in between days waiting for re-growth. It is a long-term hair removal solution, which removes hairs even as short as 0.5mm that wax has difficulty attaching to. 

In the Box:

• 1 x Silk-epil 5 518- epilator

• Efficiency Cap

• Dual Massage System Attachment

• Drawstring Bag & Cleaning Brush

• Cooling Glove & Pouch

• Charger with 2 pin plug (worth mentioning that you will need to purchase an adapter plug if you don't have a 2 pin plug socket!)

Features & Benefits:


• Close-Grip-Technology: The 40 tweezers have been engineered to close at the optimal angle and grip hair even closer to the skin for better removal of hairs as short as 0.5mm.
• Comfort System: Massaging & Cooling: The Silk-épil 5 features high frequency dual action massaging rollers that actively stimulate your skin for an extra gentle epilation and a cooling glove that cools and prepares your skin before epilation and soothes it after.
• Pivoting Head: The flexible head means it adapts to the contours of the body for a more comfortable and thorough epilation. The Silk-épil 5180 comes an efficiency cap that ensures maximum skin contact for faster epilation. 
• Speed Personalisation: Select the right speed for your individual needs: Speed 1 for extra gentle epilation, speed 2 for extra efficient epilation.
• SmartLight Technology: The Smartlight lightens up even the finest hairs to make sure no hair goes unnoticed.
• Fully washable: The Silk-épil 5180 has a sealed body, which means it can be cleaned under running water for better hygiene.


My thoughts:


First thing is I didn't find the Epilator painful at all on my legs - however in the more sensitive areas such as around my ankles I found to be a little uncomfortable for a few seconds but you get used to the sensation after a while. I like that you can adjust the speed according to your preference, personally I prefer using it on the highest setting as I find this works the quickest. The Smartlight is helpful to highlight even the tiniest and finest of hairs to ensure you are left completely hair-less. 

This is a little gross but after using you will find your hairs really stick into the tweezers but the small cleaning brush is a godsend when cleaning - just make sure you don't loose it! The drawstring bag is really handy to keep everything safe. I haven't found the need to use the Ice Pack but its a nice thing to include as those with more sensitive skin might find they develop red patches or small red bumps after use, so the cold pack helps smooth the skin afterwards.

A couple of tips: It's better to epliate when the hair is short as the longer the hair the more it will hurt! Exfoliate your legs beforehand and regularly to avoid ingrowing hair and go against the direction of the hair when epilating for the best results. Only negative is it is a little noisy to use - so there's nothing discreet about it when you are using it and it would be handy if the device charged up rather than having to use the power cord on the mains. My only other niggle is that the system comes with a 2 pin plug, so if you don't have a 2 pin plug socket then you will need to purchase an adapter separately. 

The results are absolutely fantastic, I was left with silky smooth legs and found the same results as waxing and the hair took 5-6 weeks to start growing back. I have always found home waxing messy and time consuming to do myself, but epilating is easy, much quicker and no mess! I have also noticed patches where no hair grows at all now which is a bonus! I would definitely recommend giving epliating a go if you haven't already!

The new Braun Silk-épil 5 Epilator is available in the UK now at Boots.com, John Lewis, Amazon and Argos RRP £89.99. Have you tried using an Epilator for at home hair removal?