Lets talk about Stress

Last week I had a little bit of a meltdown. Everything seemed to be going wrong. I was running at 100mph and had no time to do anything that I needed to. Everything that I normally love became a chore. I didn't want to go to the gym and I had no motivation to do anything. I wasn't my happy, usual self.

I didn't even realize anything was wrong until this Monday. I got into the gym and my strength output went up by 20% a massive increase on the week before. I have felt so much better in myself this week and it's highlighted just how horrible I felt last week.

So what the heck was going on? Turns out, I was super stressed. My sleep pattern went out the window, I was irritable and I wanted to eat every last piece of chocolate that we had in the house. I couldn't focus on small tasks and I was getting emotional over tiny things.

I realized just how much of an impact stress has on our bodies, and our minds and its something we don't even realize! If you are having a week like I had or are lacking motivation in any part of your life, take a look at your stress levels! I've re-assessed my stress this week and have made a conscious effort to relax and de-stress! Here are a couple of things I have been doing which have helped.

1. 

Sort out anything in your life that is causing undue stress

I know you can only take this so far. There are some stresses that cannot be sorted overnight such as bills- adultly things that are both boring and scary.
But where it is possible reduce stress factors in your life. Whether it's a person, relationship, a commitment or work, anything that is causing huge levels of stress- remove it from your life! You will be amazed at the difference in how you feel.

2. 

Take Time Out

Whether it is a bath, a long walk in the park, reading, listening to music or going to a yoga class. Anything that you really enjoy that is relaxing, will help to calm you down and give you time and space to think about things that need to be done and help your body catch up with your mind.

3. 

Watch what you eat

I know when you are stressed this is the last thing you think about but it really makes a difference. Make sure you are eating enough for your bodie's needs, and that your calories are coming from good quality, whole foods. Try and get lots of leafy green veggies in, good carbs- things like sweet potato, quinoa, brown rice, lean protein, and healthy fats. Eating properly will help to minimize the internal stress on your body, and help your brain to function properly.

4. 

Water

Drink. Our bodies are made up of 60%, which hopefully is enough to convince you that you need to drink lots of the stuff ! If you need anymore convincing, water is involved in every process in the body, so make sure you are getting at least 2litres each day.

5. 

SLEEP

Probably the most important on the list. Sleep is where our body recovers and repairs. Making sure you are getting at least 7-8 hours of unbroken sleep a night will help your body recover properly. Don't overlook the importance of a nighttime routine. Just turning off all technology 30 minutes before bed is a good place to start!

I hope these tips help you in some way! If you have any questions, you can  always email me at oliviacicely@gmail.com


Lots of love,
Olivia xx

Makeup Essentials for a Beach Holiday

I know it is coming to the end of summer, which I cannot actually believe- where has the summer gone? But I am currently writing this post while on holiday in Sicily and I have noticed there is definitely an art to packing a makeup bag for a beach holiday! It is so easy to take more products than you will use, something I have been guilty of lots of times. But these products are essentials and will always be the first things in my makeup bag when packing.

Normally when on holiday, I like to keep things very simple. Firstly it's hot- (well hopefully it's hot) so wearing lots of makeup, to me at least, just isn't fun. You want your skin to be able to breathe and not sweat through layers of your full coverage foundation. So the first important thing to pop in your makeup bag is a good lightweight base. You want to go for a tinted moisturiser or a good CC or BB cream. I completely understand if you want a little more coverage, so try a mineral foundation which will be much lighter on your skin and it will allow it to breathe. Or try a tinted moisturiser as a base and then use concealer for extra coverage - it works really well too.  I brought my trusted Lancome Hyrda Zen Beauty Balm with me. It's got Spf 15 which is helpful when going out in the sun But this holiday I have gone makeup free most days- so I've been using this in the evenings!

It feels so light on the skin and just works to even out my complexion and keep it hydrated in the heat. It is also super easy to apply and you can blend it with your fingers which cuts down the need for lots of brushes!

You also want to think about bringing a darker shade with you. If you are going on a sunny holiday the chances are that you will go a little or maybe a lot darker than your normal foundation shade. So try and bring a darker shade to match the tan you will hopefully acquire !

Next up, Bronzer. The key to getting that gorgeous sun-kissed glow we crave all year. When on holiday I love bronzers which have more golden undertones that give a more natural 'glow' to the face. I brought two with me, firstly Benefit Dallas- I have been using and loving this all summer. And second my Bourjois Chocolate Bronzer. They both have golden tones and give the perfect sunkissed glow.

And for your lashes; Mascara. Go for a waterproof formula! Swimming and humidity can be a threat to mascara so taking a waterproof formula just saves you worrying about it running down your face! I have been loving Maybelline the Falsies 'Push up Drama' and it has been great for the evenings when I want dramatic lashes!

Don't forget, Powder. You might find that you get a little shinier when away because of the heat! You will want a good light powder, just to keep everything set in place and reduce any shine through the T-zone.

I also brought a small eyeshadow palette- the l'oreal Nudes Palatte in Rose. Choose one with a good combination of colours, that you like and you know work on you. I didn't really use it at all except for one or two evenings.

It all depends on how much makeup you want to wear when away, for this trip it wasn't really an essential in my bag. Make sure you include whatever you normally use for your brows and maybe a few lip colours.

Don't forget a good lip balm! In the heat, everything will dry out including your lips so make sure you keep them hydrated.

Those are my essentials for a beach holiday makeup bag. I find when on a beach holiday I don't really wear anything during the day and in the evening I will always keep it minimal, so a glowing base,
mascara and perhaps a brighter lip. It is so personal, if you normally love doing very dramatic looks when away make sure you bring more products!

What are your makeup bag essentials for a summer trip?

Love, Olivia xx

The Perfect Day Moisturiser for Dry Skin

The summer months are amazing, but they have one slight downside, if you can call it that. The hot weather, well warmish (if you are in the UK) can dry out your skin, which can cause all sorts of problems! I've been on the look out for a day moisturiser to help counter the extra summer dryness I have been experiencing. In walks Neils Yard Orange Flower Daily Moisture and my summer skin is sorted.

I am loving this new addition to my skincare routine. It's a lightweight formula and I was surprised at how 'runny' it is for a hydrating moisturiser- I am used to thicker creams. But this is so lovely to use for the day. It absorbs into the skin very quickly, making a nice change from other hydrating moisturisers which can sit on the skin.  The ingredients are as natural as possible, and include Aloe Vera and Neroli flower. The aloe vera ensures it is very easy for sensitive skin, helping to calm any redness as well as being super hydrating.

The Neroli flower gives the scent, it smells very like spiced orange. I always think it's a good idea to get samples of products that you want to invest in. This one especially is something I would test before you buy. I personally don't mind the scent, this is coming from someone who normally opts out of scented creams. This one is stronger than lots of other creams so make sure you like it before you buy it!

As a base for makeup it works really well. It absorbs very fast into the skin, it doesn't make it oily or greasy, so foundations work well on top of it and tend to last longer. The only thing to consider? It has no spf, so just make sure your makeup base has some sun protection, or use a separate spf if you need it.

As I am writing this from sunny Sicily so I only have my tiny travel size tube! But it normally comes in a 100ml bottle with a pump. Neals Yard also do a facial oil in the same scent which I am currently trying out too, I will let you know what I think of it very soon! 

Have you got a summer skin saviour? I would love to know! 

Love, Olivia xx 

My Secret to Getting Summer Ready Legs

Summer is well and truly underway, meaning the need for smooth, soft legs is even more pressing than normal. Hair removal is a pain, shaving especially can result in shaving rash, which is the opposite of what you need just when you want be wearing shorts and skirts. I find shaving the easiest and fastest form of hair removal and I have finally developed my own fool-proof routine for super smooth legs.

Exfoliate

This is crucial. Start by either soaking your legs in a warm bath or in a hot shower (I find the bath gives the best results) Try and use a moisturising bath soak too! I like using an exfoliating mitt with a gentle body wash. Moving against the direction of hair growth, upwards on the leg in circular motions, to make sure each follicle is open. This ensures the hair is exposed so the razor can pass over the area without cutting the skin, or causing the dreaded razor burn.

The Right Razor

I have said it before but I have ridiculously sensitive skin. Every razor I used would make my skin incredibly sore, until I changed my tactics. I started using a men's razor. Stick with me, I promise it is worth it, because they are designed for the face and have 5 blades, you get a closer shave without the irritation. I have found Gillette's fusion razor the best for me. It has made shaving bearable and hasn't upset my skin, which is a miracle in itself!

Hydration

This will change your life. Baby oil. I'm not joking. I started using baby oil on my legs before I shave, I work it into the skin and put my shaving foam on top. It is super hydrating and locks in moisture, so it protects my skin from getting too dry and sore, and as a bonus it leaves your skin feeling super soft and smooth!

After the baby oil I use a shaving foam. I find they are the best for getting a close shave without irritating the skin. I am using this Gillette Foam for sensitive skin. It isn't the most amazing product ever but it does its job and does it well.
Another note on hydration, make sure you use a thick body butter/lotion between  each shave and after, it just maintains your skin's hydration. I am loving Soap and Glory's 'The Righteous Butter' !! It is super thick and luxurious but absorbs into the skin quickly.

Rinse 

This might be a strange one, but it really works! I find rinsing my legs in cold water helps to calm down the skin and reduce the risk of soreness, or razor rash. This is because the cold water soothes the skin and reduces any irritation caused by shaving. 

Hopefully these tips can help you if you are struggling with hair removal this summer! Do you have any tips for getting super smooth, summer-ready legs? I would love to know !

Love, Olivia x

An Old Favourite: Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Review

Liz Earle's Cleanse and Polish was probably the first proper skincare product I ever bought, I think I would have been about 14, and I have loved it ever since I first started using it. It is one of those fail-safe cleansers that seems to work for all skin types. It is super gentle on the skin, with a cream-like consistency. It removes makeup easily and cleans the skin leaving it soft, smooth and hydrated.

The cleanser comes with a muslin cloth and the idea is that it applies straight onto dry skin, or makeup. This was a little odd at first but it soon became second nature, it also turned removing my makeup into an easy step instead of a chore which involved lots of cotton pads and eye makeup remover.

You then work it into your skin and if you are taking off makeup it creates a brilliant 'panda face', which is the classic combination of cleanser and eye makeup smeared around your eyes, always very useful if you are going to a Halloween Party!

You then run the muslin cloth under a hot tap, I always use warm water as my skin is very sensitive, and use the cloth to wipe off the makeup. I then go back and do a second cleanse to make sure my skin is properly clean! The muslin works as an exfoliator, removing the makeup and any dry skin, as well as reducing the risk of water being splashed everywhere- it is a much easier way of removing the cleanser from your face.

I have very dry skin and it really helped to keep my skin hydrated and happy. It also seems to help prevent spots, but if one does appear, whereas before I would always be left with redness and scarring  this cleanser has really improved the clarity of my skin.

The packaging is also fabulous! You can get it in a tube, like the one pictured or in a bottle that features a very handy pump delivering the perfect amount of product each time. Either one you choose, it is simple and easy to use and looks beautiful in your skincare cabinet !

If you are looking for an all round fantastic cleanser I would definitely give this ago!

Love Olivia x

The Perfect Foundation for Summer

The other day I popped into Superdrug in the search of a new foundation for summer. After trawling the aisles and getting distracted by the new L'oreal nudes eye shadow palettes and Rita Ora's new nail polish collection for  Maybelline, I finally found myself picking up The Bourjois City Radiance Foundation.


Although I always seem to love Bourjois products this one was new to me so I was intruiged to see if it would be as good as their Healthy Mix foundation, that is a favorite of mine. It did not disappoint, it is a very good foundation. It's super lightweight on the skin whilst still giving a medium coverage. I love products that provide half decent coverage but feel like you aren't wearing anything. I'm loving using it in warmer weather because it is so light, I find there is nothing worse than heavy makeup on your skin when it's really hot.

Another thing that makes it awesome especially for summer ? It has SPF 30 so if you are like me and worry about sun protection this makes your life a little easier!

The texture is more like a tinted moisturiser and is incredibly easy to work into the skin with just fingers. I like to start using my fingers to work it into the skin, then blend over with a buffing brush for a flawless finish. It is a great 5-minute foundation because it is so easy to blend.

As I have dry skin I always look for more hydrating formulas, and this definitely fits the bill. But if you have more oily skin it works perfectly too, leaving the perfect finish. Not too matte and not too dewy and because of its lighter texture it doesn't sit on the skin either.

Despite being very hydrating on the skin it lasts really well. Staying power can be a problem with other hydrating formulas, meaning this is a great option for those of us with dry skin as well as those with more oily/combination complexions as it lasts on the skin really well.

If you are looking for another foundation I would definately recomend giving this one a go!

Love Olivia x

Budget Skincare Edit: Nip and Fab Cleanser Review

Finding a good cleanser is not an easy task. You need to have one that removes your makeup and cleanses your skin effectively without stripping it of all its moisture and all this whilst feeling luxurious and kind on the skin.

That's quite a list of requirements, so when you find all of those things, and it's affordable, you take notice. This is one of those products. Normally I find you get what you pay for, so high-end skincare is normally what I lean towards. But sometimes you can find a gem on the high street.

Nip and Fab is a wonderful budget brand and this cleanser was the first product of theirs I've tried and I love it. Founded by Maria Hatzistefanis, the founder of Rodial, the idea behind Nip and Fab is to have premium skincare at affordable prices. That sounds rather like a TV advert doesn't it? But for a high-street brand, it really does deliver.

The packaging doesn't look amazing, but its whats on the inside that counts. This is an all round great cleanser. It removes makeup effectively, cleans your skin, leaving it feeling nourished. It boasts 6 different uses which are:

1. Removing makeup
2. Deep cleansing 
3. As 10 minute mask
4. As an overnight mask for intense hydration
5. For direct use on blemishes 
6. For exfoliation with a muslin cloth

I mainly use it to remove my makeup, with a muslin cloth and follow that with a second cleanse, to make sure my skin is clean and makeup free. It is a very creamy formula, and breaks down any makeup easily, which makes a huge difference especially with waterproof mascara. It has no scent, so if you find you have a problem with scented products then I would recommend giving this one a go!

Even on my sensitive skin it is very gentle and cleans without stripping the skin, meaning my skin feel fresh and hydrated. You get a lot for your money, it's in a big pot and a little goes a long way so it lasts ages. 

If you are looking for a cleanser that isn't going to break the bank, and yet deliver on quality then definitely give this one a go!

Are there any other budget cleansers that you would recommend ?

Love, Olivia x

Post Workout Smoothie

I used to struggle to get in enough carbs to refuel properly after a training session at the gym. So I came up with this carb loaded, post-workout friendly smoothie, which tastes amazing and is perfect for refueling energy stores and building lean muscles.

Not only is it delicious, but it has simple carbs from the banana, which helps to refuel your muscles quickly. The oats provide a slower release of carbohydrates keeping blood sugar levels stable and making sure you don't have a slump in energy levels.

Whey protein is the perfect post-workout food. It is absorbed quickly by the body, so it gets to your muscles immediately after training, to help rebuild and repair. Try hemp or pea protein powder if you need a vegan alternative.

It's also super simple to make. I'm loving using ice in this hot weather, and if you use frozen banana it comes out really thick; a little like ice cream. What could be better?

You will need:
Handful of ice (if you use too much I find the flavor isn't as strong so don't go too crazy)
1 Frozen banana
40g Oats (feel free to adjust the quantities so they are inline with your own energy requirements)
1 scoop whey protein (for this one I used MyProtein Impact Whey in Chocolate Caramel)
150ml Coconut or almond milk

Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend

Pour or scoop, depending on how thick it is into a glass and enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this smoothie recipe, what's your favorite post-workout snack? I'd love to know!

Love, Olivia x

Macros - What are they and are they important ?

Macros are being talked about more and more nowadays and I am always asked what they are when I mention them. So I thought I would do a brief guide to macros if you are new to them or just want to know more about how to use them.

Macronutrients are the building blocks of your diet. They are the 3 main sources of energy and are hugely important when building a strong, healthy body. Cutting any one of them out with leave your body deficient of energy.

They are:
1. Protein
2. Carbohydrates
3. Fat

Protein
Protein is used by the body to:

• maintain the structure of cells and tissues 
• repair and grow muscles 
• support our immune system
• produce hormones
• balance metabolism 

In the body, proteins are broken down into amino acids. Complete sources of protein are things like eggs, fish, chicken and red meat because they contain all the essential amino acids the body needs. 

Other plant-based sources include: tofu, lentils, chia seeds, hemp seeds and lots more

Carbohydrate
Think of Carbohydrates as the body's main energy source. It is stored in the liver, brain, blood and muscles as glycogen.
The body uses Carbohydrates as:

• its main source of energy during exercise
• to help the nervous system, kidneys and muscles function
• they contain fibre which is important for digestive health
• they are also key to brain function

Sources: Sweet potato, quinoa, brown rice, fruit, vegetables and lots more

Fat
Fat has got a lot of bad press, but it is not the enemy. It's actually essential to maintaining a healthy body. As the most energy-dense macronutrient, it's important source of energy which keeps blood sugar levels stable. It takes longer to digest so it also keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
Fats are used as:

• Energy. It is the body's prefered energy source at rest or when performing low intensity activites, like walking.
• Allows fat-soluble vitamins to be used by the body
• protection- around organs, nerves and tissues
• stablises body temperature
• every cell in the body needs fat as protection but its also used to grow new cells 
• used in hormone production
• keeping skin, hair and nails healthy

Sources: red meat, oily fish, nuts, coconut oil


Having an idea of what the different essential elements of our diets actually do in our bodies is so important and can help when making informed decisions about our nutrition. Learning about why you need to eat carbs, protein and fat has helped me so much. Not just with my relationship with food, but my training has improved because I am actually Fuelling my body properly. Allowing it to recover and have enough energy to perform at the gym and outside it. You don't need to obsess over counting them, but just have an idea of why you should include all three in your diet!

This is a different kind of post for me, I would love to know if it has helped you!


Love, Olivia

New to the world of fake tanning?

Is anybody else coming out of winter feeling like you could audition for a part in Twilight?  As I am currently unable to escape for 2 weeks to acquire a beautiful natural bronzed glow,  I am calling in the Calvery; St Tropez.

I should start off by saying that I have always been a little sceptical of fake tan. I can't say the idea of looking like an Umpa Lumpa has ever really appealed to me. But being able to get a natural golden glow without running the risk of looking like I just stepped off the set of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has made me a convert.

Before I get to the fake tan, lets talk skincare. Having exfolilated and moisturised skin will mean your tan will last longer and you won't get those horrible patches of colour on dry areas!

The night before you plan to fake tan, exfoliate your whole body, focusing on your knees and elbows. I then follow this a mositrusier, again focus on your knees and elbows. I am currently obsessed with this body butter from Dirty Works in Coconut Caress - it smells delicious.

It is not an essential but I would say invest in a tanning mitt. They reduce any risk of streaks and you get an even colour all over with no coloured palms.

I am currently using St Tropez's Express 1 hour tan, which I love. As its a foam you are far more likely to get an even tan, and it is also aborbed into the skin really quickly.

I use a little straight onto my tanning mitt and starting with my legs I work upwards in circular motions. Keep going all over your body, but you might need to ask someone to with your back - unless you are super bendy and can reach yourself!

You then leave it for an hour if you want a light colour, 2 for medium, 3 for dark. An hour tends to give me that sun-kissed glow. If I need a darker tan I leave it for an hour and a half Max. Then jump in the shower and wash off with warm water. It is that easy.

The only misleading thing about this product is the instant part. While you do get an instant colour, it is not the finished product. The tan will develop for the next 8 hours so don't expect the full effect straight away. I normally tan the night before and let it develop overnight, that way I am ready to roll in the morning.

Like most tanning products there is a slight smell which is most obvious when the tan is developing- another reason I leave it overnight! I then slather on my favourite body lotion in the morning and ta da- no fake tan smell!

The great thing about all St Tropez products? The colour has golden/bronze undertones rather than orange - so no tangoing to worry about.

If you have more time on your hands and don't want to jump in the deep end, try a gradual tanner. The best I have used is the Palmers Natural Bronze Gradual Tan. Not only does it smell Amazing - a chocolate scented body lotion? Yes please. Its super easy to use and gives a lovely subtle natural colour.

Don't forget to moisturise so your tan lasts as long as possible.

What are your favourite tanning products? I would love to know!

Love Olivia x

Raw Millionaires Shortbread

I saw these little gems after reading the blog ModelMangetout and seeing her raw Millionaires Shortbread. First thought: I can have a healthy version of Millionaires Shortbread ?! I'm sold. So here is my version.

You will need:

For the Base:
150g Cashews
3 tablespoons Desiccated Coconut
5 tablespoons Ground almonds
1 tablespoon Agave Nectar
3 tablespoons Tahini
1/4 cup Coconut oil (melted)

Place the cashews, almonds and coconut in a food processor and blend till you have a fine crumb. Add the rest of the ingredients and blend till combined.

Spoon the mixture into a freezer-proof container (I used one about 22x18cm but you might want to use a square one for perfectly shaped shortbread.) Freeze while you make the date caramel. (minimum 1/2-1hr)

Date Caramel:
11/2 cup of Dates (Try and use Medjool dates for a sweeter and stickier caramel!)
3 tablespoons Coconut oil (melted)
2 tablespoons Almond Butter
2-3 tablespoons Coconut milk (I sometimes use canned coconut milk, but almond milk or another milk works too!)

Pour boiling water over your pitted dates, and let them soak for 5mins then drain. This makes them softer and easier to blend. Place them into your food processor along with the coconut milk and blend, this could take a little while but you're looking for a smooth paste. Once your date and milk mixture is smooth you can add in the rest of the ingredients, and blend. Cover your base with the caramel and place back in the freezer, for another hour.

For the Chocolate Top:
1/2 cup Melted Coconut Oil
6tbsp Raw Cacao Powder
3 tbsp Agave Nectar

Over a low warm your coconut oil and add in the cacao powder. Whisk the two together, then add in the agave nectar. This is personal preference, taste as you go, if you want it sweeter add more if you like it a little more bitter then add less or none at all.
The base and date caramel is very sweet so you might not want to make the top too sweet!

Pop in the fridge for 1/2-hour, until the top is just set, place back in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours.
Then Slice and devour !!

If you do give these ago please let me know, I'd love to know how they turn out!

Love, Olivia x

Makeup Starter Kit

Next weekend my friend has asked me to take her makeup shopping so we can battle the minefield of the beauty section together! She loves her makeup but she has always done the same thing, using the same products and wants some help updating products and establishing a basic kit. It got me thinking about what would be the essential products to have in your makeup collection.

1.     Base

If you want to create a beautiful painting it helps to have a good canvas, it's the same with your skin. Having a solid skincare routine really helps to make your makeup look even better.

When picking your base, ask yourself, do you always wear foundation or are you a lover of tinted moisturiser? Do you use a BB or CC cream as your preferred base? Notice the products you reach for the most, as they will probably be you favourite. Decide on what you like using and make sure you have a good match for your skin tone.

Note: If you have very oily skin and/or if your base doesn't last very long on you throughout the day then consider a primer. There are so many on the market, find which ones you like the most.

2.     Concealer and Correctors

This stage you want something that's going to cover anything that your foundation hasn't. Choose a formula based on your skin type.

For oily skins choose liquid concealers if you have normal, dry or sensitive skin pick a stick concealer. Cream concealers work best on normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin and cream to powder formulas are best suited to normal, combination, and sensitive or slightly dry skin.

For your under eye area try and use a shade that is 1-2 shades lighter than the one you used on your base as this will help lighten the under eye area.

3.     Powder

You need powder to set the liquid or cream base (if this is what you've used, skip this if you use powder foundation) Pick two colours. I personally always use transparent powder but make sure you have a coloured one too this allows for extra coverage if it's needed.  

4.     Eye Shadow

Depending on your confidence with eye shadow I would start with 3 to 4 basic colours in neutral shades and work up from there. I also love using cream formulas either in a stick or from a pot as they are so quick and easy to apply and last all day! They also create a great base to apply powder shades on top.

5.     Eyeliner

I would have powder, pencil and gel formulas in a basic kit, again depending on your normal makeup look. If you love liner include a liquid one to!

6.     Mascara

I love this step, I find it finishes off eye makeup so well and makes such a difference to your appearance. If you have very straight lashes that don't hold a curl well, choose a waterproof formula that will last longer.

It’s not essential but I couldn't be without mine, an eyelash curler, just to give your lashes that extra bit drama!

7.     Blush

There are so many different formulas to choose from, find out what works best for you and what you like using. But make sure you have a few shades to choose from in either (or both) powder or cream formulas.

8.     Lips

Whether its liner, lipstick and gloss or just tinted balm, lips make the look polished and put together.

Depending on your routine, try and have a liner, lipstick, gloss and balm in your basic kit.

I think the main thing to remember that makeup is so personal is important to find what You like and what works best for you!

What would be in your basic kit? I’d love to know!

Love,

Olivia

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate- Why I’m in love

I’ve always been really worried about using facial oil on my skin. I thought it would increase the oiliness of my skin causing breakouts and other oil related side effects. How wrong I was.

 I think we are conditioned into thinking all oil must be bad because we link it to oily skin type. But as I’ve found it’s all about using the right kind of oil.

Watch out for Mineral Oil, it's found in more skincare products than you would think.

Reasons to avoid mineral oil:

•   It clogs your pores, which increases the risk of acne and blackheads.
•   It offers no benefits for your skin. All it does is sit on the skin and prevents moisture loss.
•   Having said all that, I find I can use products that contain mineral oil if I am washing it straight off. A cleasner for example, is not left to block pores or sit on the skin so for me it doesn't have too much of an effect! 

Ironically if you suffer from acne or oil skin, using facial oil can help! Often products for acne prone/oily skin strip the skin of its natural oils, causing the skin to freak out leading to an over production of oil maybe dryness and probally breakouts. So even though it might feel weird, I’ve found that using oil can really help re-balance the skin’s oil production.

Recently my skin has become very dry and I have been desperate for something to increase the moisture content and help repair the skin while I sleep. I was very reluctant to try Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate despite hearing so many amazing things about it, because of the fact its an oil. But I finally took the plunge and I haven’t looked back since!

This product is gorgeous. The ingredients include, Evening Primrose and Lavender oil giving the oil giving it a beautiful scent that is not too invasive. Also lavender before bed? Yes please!

Use sparingly as a little goes a long way here. I use two drops and smooth over my skin just before bed. As my skin is so dry I’ve found the oil is absorbed very quickly, but if you have an oilier complexion don’t be worry about the greasy look, it will absorbed over night and leave a radiant complexion by the morning! That's why this is a night only product. Also maybe just use 2-3 times a week as a treat for your skin.

Since I’ve been using this oil, by morning my skin is super soft and moisturized. Any scars or pigmentation are reduced and healing which is the main reason I love this product. Its so comforting to use and you know its helping your skin repairs itself.

If you suffer from scarring or acne its definitely worth a try. But as with anything skincare related, I would always try a tester first – it is a little pricey so its worth making sure you will love it before you splash out!

What do you think about facial oils? Have you had any experience with Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate? I’d love to know!  

Olivia x