Spring is a-springing, and now that £1 bunches of daffodils are gracing our supermarkets and I only need to wear my big coat every other day, I'm starting to switch up my beauty routines in readiness for the warmer weather.
My beauty routines have changed a fair bit since last spring, so I thought I would share a little bit of my up-to-date favourites and tell you all about the products that are going to see me through the coming season!
The Body Shop Body Yogurts
I first tried the body yogurts last summer and they are a GAME. CHANGER. They're a lightweight body moisturiser, perfect for the spring and summer months when I'm getting my legs out a bit more regularly! They absorb almost instantly, so I love using them in the morning when I can pop it on and get dressed without having to wait for the product to sink in. They leave skin feeling super-hydrated, and they smell ah-ma-zing! My favourites are the Almond Milk one, and the Mango one, especially for the morning because it smells so zingy and refreshing!
Shop here.
St. Tropez Purity Tanning Mist
Now that the sun is starting to come out a bit more regularly, I've found myself craving a summer glow to accompany my midi dresses. St. Tropez has been my favourite self-tan for a good few years now, and the Purity Mist is just so easy to use, especially for someone like me who is RUBBISH at getting it even and patch-free. The glow is subtle and natural-looking, which I love because I don't risk looking orange! It isn't the cheapest self-tan on the market, but I've tried more budget-friendly options and I just haven't loved them as much, so I always return to St. Tropez!
Shop here.
Revlon ColorStay Foundation
I'm all about a full-coverage foundation in the winter and a BB Cream in the summer, but I've struggled to find something in-between for the in-between months. But the Revlon ColorStay foundation has become a firm favourite of mine which I'll definitely be using all the way through Spring. I use the version designed for normal/dry skin as I love a dewy finish, and the coverage of the ColorStay foundation is lightweight but easily buildable for days where I feel I need a little bit more. But it doesn't sit heavy on my face or cling to dry patches. And it lasts all day, which is no mean feat when you're sitting in an office for 10 hours a day with the air-con on full blast!
Shop here.
Urban Decay Naked Cherry Palette
This is hands-down my favourite spring palette ever! Once the sun starts shining a bit more regularly I want to play around with colour in my make-up, and I love creating pretty, girly looks with the Naked Cherry palette. The range of shades in the palette, from soft mattes to deep cherry shades to the stunning shimmers mean I can put together completely different looks depending on my mood, and I find myself reaching for it most days!
Shop here.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Prisma Protect
Far and away my FAVOURITE Spring/Summer moisturiser, and I will repurchase it over and over again. It has SPF 30, which is essential all year round but especially when the sun comes out a bit more, and it's lightweight but also moisturising enough that my dry skin doesn't feel parched halfway through the day. And the GLOW it gives is just incredible! I pop it on and my skin not only feels super-soft, but also looks radiant and ready for my make-up.
Shop here.
The Body Shop Vitamin C Sheet Masks
I'm all about a glowy complexion in the spring, so Vitamin C is a must-have ingredient in my skincare routine. Sheet masks tend to be a once-in-a-while treat, especially for when my skin needs a little bit of a pick-me-up, and The Body Shop does my favourite sheet masks. They're completely bio-degradable, which makes me feel less guilty about sheet masks not being the most environmentally-friendly, but after 10 minutes with a Vitamin C mask on my skin looks more plump, radiant and glowing. Perfect for before make up, and to give your skin a little boost before heading out.
Shop here.
What are your favourite products for Spring?
Love,
Sian xo
Spring is a-springing, and now that £1 bunches of daffodils are gracing our supermarkets and I only need to wear my big coat every other day, I'm starting to switch up my beauty routines in readiness for the warmer weather.
My beauty routines have changed a fair bit since last spring, so I thought I would share a little bit of my up-to-date favourites and tell you all about the products that are going to see me through the coming season!
The Body Shop Body Yogurts
I first tried the body yogurts last summer and they are a GAME. CHANGER. They're a lightweight body moisturiser, perfect for the spring and summer months when I'm getting my legs out a bit more regularly! They absorb almost instantly, so I love using them in the morning when I can pop it on and get dressed without having to wait for the product to sink in. They leave skin feeling super-hydrated, and they smell ah-ma-zing! My favourites are the Almond Milk one, and the Mango one, especially for the morning because it smells so zingy and refreshing!
Shop here.
St. Tropez Purity Tanning Mist
Now that the sun is starting to come out a bit more regularly, I've found myself craving a summer glow to accompany my midi dresses. St. Tropez has been my favourite self-tan for a good few years now, and the Purity Mist is just so easy to use, especially for someone like me who is RUBBISH at getting it even and patch-free. The glow is subtle and natural-looking, which I love because I don't risk looking orange! It isn't the cheapest self-tan on the market, but I've tried more budget-friendly options and I just haven't loved them as much, so I always return to St. Tropez!
Shop here.
Revlon ColorStay Foundation
I'm all about a full-coverage foundation in the winter and a BB Cream in the summer, but I've struggled to find something in-between for the in-between months. But the Revlon ColorStay foundation has become a firm favourite of mine which I'll definitely be using all the way through Spring. I use the version designed for normal/dry skin as I love a dewy finish, and the coverage of the ColorStay foundation is lightweight but easily buildable for days where I feel I need a little bit more. But it doesn't sit heavy on my face or cling to dry patches. And it lasts all day, which is no mean feat when you're sitting in an office for 10 hours a day with the air-con on full blast!
Shop here.
Urban Decay Naked Cherry Palette
This is hands-down my favourite spring palette ever! Once the sun starts shining a bit more regularly I want to play around with colour in my make-up, and I love creating pretty, girly looks with the Naked Cherry palette. The range of shades in the palette, from soft mattes to deep cherry shades to the stunning shimmers mean I can put together completely different looks depending on my mood, and I find myself reaching for it most days!
Shop here.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Prisma Protect
Far and away my FAVOURITE Spring/Summer moisturiser, and I will repurchase it over and over again. It has SPF 30, which is essential all year round but especially when the sun comes out a bit more, and it's lightweight but also moisturising enough that my dry skin doesn't feel parched halfway through the day. And the GLOW it gives is just incredible! I pop it on and my skin not only feels super-soft, but also looks radiant and ready for my make-up.
Shop here.
The Body Shop Vitamin C Sheet Masks
I'm all about a glowy complexion in the spring, so Vitamin C is a must-have ingredient in my skincare routine. Sheet masks tend to be a once-in-a-while treat, especially for when my skin needs a little bit of a pick-me-up, and The Body Shop does my favourite sheet masks. They're completely bio-degradable, which makes me feel less guilty about sheet masks not being the most environmentally-friendly, but after 10 minutes with a Vitamin C mask on my skin looks more plump, radiant and glowing. Perfect for before make up, and to give your skin a little boost before heading out.
Shop here.
What are your favourite products for Spring?
Love,
Sian xo
I remember being in my late teens and early twenties, coming across products with anti-ageing properties in shops or during beauty consultations and glossing over them, almost with a tiny little scoff - 'psh, no I don't need to worry about that yet!'
Maybe it was because at the time, my biggest concern was my acne. Or maybe it was because when you're that kind of age, wrinkles and the ageing process isn't even on your radar - and frankly, you hold a certain attitude that you don't quite believe that ageing will ever happen to you.
Fast-forward to just after I turned 26, and I come across my first wrinkle (which I wrote another blog post about, read it here if you fancy a giggle). I'd been using SPF & eye cream for a couple of years by that point, but in finding that single, faint frown line creeping across my forehead, it was like something switched in my brain and I realised that actually, I was going to get older too. I was going to get more frown lines, more wrinkles, my skin might even eventually start to sag a little. It's inevitable.
And that. Is. Terrifying.
It's become a bit of an obsession over the last year. Constantly researching products that might be able to help me to stop the visible signs of getting older in their tracks. Comparing myself to my friends and trying to analyse if I have more or less wrinkles than they do. Staring at the fine lines under my eyes and wondering if they look more prominent today than they did the day before. Trying EVERY concealer under the sun because they all show the lines and all I want to do is cover them up and pretend they're not there.
It sounds superficial, but unfortunately we all know that society puts pressure on us to look a certain way. And yes, part of me is worried that I'll be less pretty when I start getting older.
But there is an another emotional element to it. I'm creeping closer to 30. And I'm very aware of the fact that I'm no where near where I envisioned I'd be by 30. While deep down I know I'm putting too much pressure on myself and I still have loads of time, I'm so aware of the fact that I can't get time back and my twenties seem to have zipped by!
I'd love to say I'm at the point now where I'm embracing my fine lines, and I've made a resolution that I'll age like Meryl Streep or Helen Mirren. I'm not there yet. It's a process. For now, I'm just trying to obsess less. That'll be a good start.
(I'm still considering Botox when I hit my 30s though. But that's a post for another day!)
Love,
Sian xo
I remember being in my late teens and early twenties, coming across products with anti-ageing properties in shops or during beauty consultations and glossing over them, almost with a tiny little scoff - 'psh, no I don't need to worry about that yet!'
Maybe it was because at the time, my biggest concern was my acne. Or maybe it was because when you're that kind of age, wrinkles and the ageing process isn't even on your radar - and frankly, you hold a certain attitude that you don't quite believe that ageing will ever happen to you.
Fast-forward to just after I turned 26, and I come across my first wrinkle (which I wrote another blog post about, read it here if you fancy a giggle). I'd been using SPF & eye cream for a couple of years by that point, but in finding that single, faint frown line creeping across my forehead, it was like something switched in my brain and I realised that actually, I was going to get older too. I was going to get more frown lines, more wrinkles, my skin might even eventually start to sag a little. It's inevitable.
And that. Is. Terrifying.
It's become a bit of an obsession over the last year. Constantly researching products that might be able to help me to stop the visible signs of getting older in their tracks. Comparing myself to my friends and trying to analyse if I have more or less wrinkles than they do. Staring at the fine lines under my eyes and wondering if they look more prominent today than they did the day before. Trying EVERY concealer under the sun because they all show the lines and all I want to do is cover them up and pretend they're not there.
It sounds superficial, but unfortunately we all know that society puts pressure on us to look a certain way. And yes, part of me is worried that I'll be less pretty when I start getting older.
But there is an another emotional element to it. I'm creeping closer to 30. And I'm very aware of the fact that I'm no where near where I envisioned I'd be by 30. While deep down I know I'm putting too much pressure on myself and I still have loads of time, I'm so aware of the fact that I can't get time back and my twenties seem to have zipped by!
I'd love to say I'm at the point now where I'm embracing my fine lines, and I've made a resolution that I'll age like Meryl Streep or Helen Mirren. I'm not there yet. It's a process. For now, I'm just trying to obsess less. That'll be a good start.
(I'm still considering Botox when I hit my 30s though. But that's a post for another day!)
Love,
Sian xo
Can you believe it's April already?! This year is going so fast already, I'm pretty sure it was Christmas about three days ago!
If you've read my blog before, you'll probably know that I set myself a goal to read 25 books this year. We're just over three months into 2021 and I've already finished nine books! All these months in lockdown have probably been the contributing factor, but so far I'm definitely on track to hit my 25!
I'm always getting asked by friends for book recommendations, so I thought I would do a little round-up of everything I've read so far, what I thought and a little rating out of 5.
You may have seen me write about some of these books before in my Favourite Reads of the Last Year post - so head over there for more bookish goodness!
Ready? Let's dive in.
Girl, Woman, Other - Bernadine Evaristo
From the top of the country to the bottom, across more than a century of change and growth and struggle and life, Girl, Woman, Other follows twelve very different characters on an entwined journey of discovery.
I LOVED this book. I think Evaristo is a brilliant writer, and although the writing style of this novel took a little bit of getting used to, before long I got so stuck into the story that I barely even noticed. Girl, Woman, Other tackles a multitude of themes like racism, relationships, abuse, class and culture, and it gives the opportunity for the reader to really learn just part of what it means to be a Black woman in Britain. I loved how the characters' stories intertwined at various points too, I was absolutely glued to this book the whole way through.
Rating: 4.5/5
Away With The Penguins - Hazel Prior
Veronica McCreedy lives in a mansion by the sea. She loves a nice cup of tea and a good wildlife documentary. And she's never seen without her ruby-red lipstick...
Veronica doesn't have family or friends nearby. Not that she knows about, anyway... And she has no idea where she's going to leave her considerable wealth when she dies.
But today... today Veronica is going to make a decision that will change everything.
I devoured this book in just a few days, and I absolutely adored it. I warmed to Veronica straight away, on the surface she's a grumpy old rich woman, but the more you read, you discover that she's headstrong, stubborn and gutsy. The storyline is a little bit out there in places, but I didn't care because I've never read anything like it before! Plus, I LOVE penguins! It's such a funny, heart-warming story which I never wanted to end, that's how you know it was a good book!
Rating: 5/5
In Five Years - Rebecca Searle
Dannie Kohan has held true to her meticulously crafted five-year plan since she understood the concept. On the day she nails the most important interview of her career and gets engaged to the perfec man, she's well on her way to fulfilling her life goals.
But that night Dannie falls asleep and dreams of a night five years in the future where she's engaged to another man. It was just a dream, she tells herself when she wakes, but it felt so real...
As someone who also feels the need to live her life by a five-year plan, and is terrified of not sticking to life's 'schedule', I thought In Five Years would be perfect for me. It's set in New York, with all the glitz of being a twenty-something in the city, which is my Devil-Wears-Prada-dream. And while there were a few instances where I did relate to Dannie, I just didn't find her incredibly likeable. In all honesty, I didn't love any of the characters, I didn't think they had much depth. And because of that, I found it really hard to get properly into the book. Saying that though, it was a nice easy read, and if you're a fan of chick-lit, you may well love it! Just not my favourite.
Rating: 2.5/5
Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens
For years, rumours of the 'Marsh Girl' have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say...
You've probably seen Where the Crawdads Sing get a lotttttt of hype. And when a book gets a lot of hype, I tend to worry about starting it, in case I'm disappointed. I'll be honest, it took me a while to get into this one, I had to persevere through the first third to see if it picked up. Once I'd fully warmed to Kya's character I was hooked on her story, and I was desperate to know whether or not she got the ending she deserved. I think it's a really original story concept, a murder-mystery and love story hybrid. One which was worth the hype for me, if you've started it and you're struggling, trust me, stick with it!
Rating: 4/5
Normal People - Sally Rooney
Connell and Marianne grow up in the same small town in the west of Ireland, but the similarities end there. In school, Connell is popular and well-liked, while Marianne is a loner. But when the two strike up a conversation - awkward but electrifying - something life-changing begins.
Normal People is another one while is really hyped up, and I so badly wanted to love it. But I thought it was just... okay? It was an easy read, but I found the story to be really slow in places and the whole 'will-they-won't-they' narrative just got a bit tedious for me. Unpopular opinion, I know! But I just didn't fall in love with it like a lot of other people have.
Rating: 2.5/5
Such A Fun Age - Kiley Reid
When Emira is apprehended at a supermarket for 'kidnapping' the white child she's actually babysitting, her employer Alix resolves to make things right. So begins a crash course that will upend everything they think they know - about themselves, each other, and the messy dynamics of privilege.
I'm not sure I even know where to start when talking about Such A Fun Age. I thought it was incredible. Funny in a lot of places, thought-provoking in many more, and so well-written. I loved Emira as a character, a 26 year old who's still trying to figure herself out (which I can definitely relate to), but she's also strong and sure of herself in equal measure. The themes of the book tackle racism and privilege in a way that made me think about how I would react or think in certain situations, which guides the reader to consider their own privilege, and honestly I think it's essential anti-racism reading. I can't fault Such A Fun Age whatsoever.
Rating: 5/5
The Eve Illusion - Giovanna & Tom Fletcher
After sixteen years imprisoned in the Tower, Eve has escaped with Bram - into the unknown.
Fearing her captors won't rest until she is found, the most famous girl in the world must hide.
The Freevers - calling for revolution - claim they'll protect her. But is she swapping one prison for another?
For anyone who isn't familiar with the Eve of Man trilogy - written by my favourite celebrity couple ever - it explores the idea of a world where a baby girl isn't born for 50 years - and then Eve arrives. The Eve Illusion is the second in the trilogy, and I started it firm in my opinion that the second instalment of any series is almost always my least favourite. Not this time. The only thing I would say is that I wish I'd read the last couple of chapters of the first book before starting, just to refresh my memory, because I spent the first third of the book slightly confused about who certain characters were and their stories - but apart from that I absolutely loved it. It was exciting, fast-paced and ended on a total cliffhanger, I actually can't wait for the third one!
Rating - 4/5
Fifty-Fifty - Steve Cavanagh
Alexandra Avellino has just found her father's mutilated body, and needs the police right away. She believes her sister killed him, and that she is still in the house with a knife. Sofia Avellino has just found her father's mutilated body, and needs the police right away. She believes her sister, Alexandra did it, and that she is still in the house, locked in the bathroom. Both women are to go on trial at the same time. A joint trial in front of one jury. But one of these women is lying. One is a murderer.
It's been SO LONG since I read a truly brilliant thriller. While I thought Fifty-Fifty sounded really intriguing, I worried that it would be predictable and cliche. I needn't have worried though. This book is full of twists that I never saw coming, it's fast-paced, gripping and it kept me guessing who the murderer was right up until the very end. If you love a thriller, you need to put this on your To Be Read list!
Reasons To Stay Alive - Matt Haig
This is the true story of how Matt Haig came through crisis, triumphed over a mental illness that almost destroyed him and learned to live again. Moving, funny and joyous, Reasons To Stay Alive is more than a memoir. It is a book about making the most of your time on earth.
Oh my goodness, how I wish that this book had been around when I first suffered from depression and anxiety way back in 2013. I think when you're in the throes of mental illness, it's so easy to feel like you're totally alone in how you are feeling. But Reasons To Stay Alive is the reminder and the comfort in the knowledge that someone else has felt the way you do, and come out the other side. The chapters are short, it's easy to digest, perfect to dip in and out of when you feel your mental health is taking a wobble. An absolute breath of fresh air, and I know it's one I'll always have a copy of on my shelf to go to when I need it.
Rating: 4/5
What books have you read and enjoyed recently? Let me know in the comments, I always need recommendations!
Love,
Sian xo
Can you believe it's April already?! This year is going so fast already, I'm pretty sure it was Christmas about three days ago!
If you've read my blog before, you'll probably know that I set myself a goal to read 25 books this year. We're just over three months into 2021 and I've already finished nine books! All these months in lockdown have probably been the contributing factor, but so far I'm definitely on track to hit my 25!
I'm always getting asked by friends for book recommendations, so I thought I would do a little round-up of everything I've read so far, what I thought and a little rating out of 5.
You may have seen me write about some of these books before in my Favourite Reads of the Last Year post - so head over there for more bookish goodness!
Ready? Let's dive in.
Girl, Woman, Other - Bernadine Evaristo
From the top of the country to the bottom, across more than a century of change and growth and struggle and life, Girl, Woman, Other follows twelve very different characters on an entwined journey of discovery.
I LOVED this book. I think Evaristo is a brilliant writer, and although the writing style of this novel took a little bit of getting used to, before long I got so stuck into the story that I barely even noticed. Girl, Woman, Other tackles a multitude of themes like racism, relationships, abuse, class and culture, and it gives the opportunity for the reader to really learn just part of what it means to be a Black woman in Britain. I loved how the characters' stories intertwined at various points too, I was absolutely glued to this book the whole way through.
Rating: 4.5/5
Away With The Penguins - Hazel Prior
Veronica McCreedy lives in a mansion by the sea. She loves a nice cup of tea and a good wildlife documentary. And she's never seen without her ruby-red lipstick...
Veronica doesn't have family or friends nearby. Not that she knows about, anyway... And she has no idea where she's going to leave her considerable wealth when she dies.
But today... today Veronica is going to make a decision that will change everything.
I devoured this book in just a few days, and I absolutely adored it. I warmed to Veronica straight away, on the surface she's a grumpy old rich woman, but the more you read, you discover that she's headstrong, stubborn and gutsy. The storyline is a little bit out there in places, but I didn't care because I've never read anything like it before! Plus, I LOVE penguins! It's such a funny, heart-warming story which I never wanted to end, that's how you know it was a good book!
Rating: 5/5
In Five Years - Rebecca Searle
Dannie Kohan has held true to her meticulously crafted five-year plan since she understood the concept. On the day she nails the most important interview of her career and gets engaged to the perfec man, she's well on her way to fulfilling her life goals.
But that night Dannie falls asleep and dreams of a night five years in the future where she's engaged to another man. It was just a dream, she tells herself when she wakes, but it felt so real...
As someone who also feels the need to live her life by a five-year plan, and is terrified of not sticking to life's 'schedule', I thought In Five Years would be perfect for me. It's set in New York, with all the glitz of being a twenty-something in the city, which is my Devil-Wears-Prada-dream. And while there were a few instances where I did relate to Dannie, I just didn't find her incredibly likeable. In all honesty, I didn't love any of the characters, I didn't think they had much depth. And because of that, I found it really hard to get properly into the book. Saying that though, it was a nice easy read, and if you're a fan of chick-lit, you may well love it! Just not my favourite.
Rating: 2.5/5
Where the Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens
For years, rumours of the 'Marsh Girl' have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say...
You've probably seen Where the Crawdads Sing get a lotttttt of hype. And when a book gets a lot of hype, I tend to worry about starting it, in case I'm disappointed. I'll be honest, it took me a while to get into this one, I had to persevere through the first third to see if it picked up. Once I'd fully warmed to Kya's character I was hooked on her story, and I was desperate to know whether or not she got the ending she deserved. I think it's a really original story concept, a murder-mystery and love story hybrid. One which was worth the hype for me, if you've started it and you're struggling, trust me, stick with it!
Rating: 4/5
Normal People - Sally Rooney
Connell and Marianne grow up in the same small town in the west of Ireland, but the similarities end there. In school, Connell is popular and well-liked, while Marianne is a loner. But when the two strike up a conversation - awkward but electrifying - something life-changing begins.
Normal People is another one while is really hyped up, and I so badly wanted to love it. But I thought it was just... okay? It was an easy read, but I found the story to be really slow in places and the whole 'will-they-won't-they' narrative just got a bit tedious for me. Unpopular opinion, I know! But I just didn't fall in love with it like a lot of other people have.
Rating: 2.5/5
Such A Fun Age - Kiley Reid
When Emira is apprehended at a supermarket for 'kidnapping' the white child she's actually babysitting, her employer Alix resolves to make things right. So begins a crash course that will upend everything they think they know - about themselves, each other, and the messy dynamics of privilege.
I'm not sure I even know where to start when talking about Such A Fun Age. I thought it was incredible. Funny in a lot of places, thought-provoking in many more, and so well-written. I loved Emira as a character, a 26 year old who's still trying to figure herself out (which I can definitely relate to), but she's also strong and sure of herself in equal measure. The themes of the book tackle racism and privilege in a way that made me think about how I would react or think in certain situations, which guides the reader to consider their own privilege, and honestly I think it's essential anti-racism reading. I can't fault Such A Fun Age whatsoever.
Rating: 5/5
The Eve Illusion - Giovanna & Tom Fletcher
After sixteen years imprisoned in the Tower, Eve has escaped with Bram - into the unknown.
Fearing her captors won't rest until she is found, the most famous girl in the world must hide.
The Freevers - calling for revolution - claim they'll protect her. But is she swapping one prison for another?
For anyone who isn't familiar with the Eve of Man trilogy - written by my favourite celebrity couple ever - it explores the idea of a world where a baby girl isn't born for 50 years - and then Eve arrives. The Eve Illusion is the second in the trilogy, and I started it firm in my opinion that the second instalment of any series is almost always my least favourite. Not this time. The only thing I would say is that I wish I'd read the last couple of chapters of the first book before starting, just to refresh my memory, because I spent the first third of the book slightly confused about who certain characters were and their stories - but apart from that I absolutely loved it. It was exciting, fast-paced and ended on a total cliffhanger, I actually can't wait for the third one!
Rating - 4/5
Fifty-Fifty - Steve Cavanagh
Alexandra Avellino has just found her father's mutilated body, and needs the police right away. She believes her sister killed him, and that she is still in the house with a knife. Sofia Avellino has just found her father's mutilated body, and needs the police right away. She believes her sister, Alexandra did it, and that she is still in the house, locked in the bathroom. Both women are to go on trial at the same time. A joint trial in front of one jury. But one of these women is lying. One is a murderer.
It's been SO LONG since I read a truly brilliant thriller. While I thought Fifty-Fifty sounded really intriguing, I worried that it would be predictable and cliche. I needn't have worried though. This book is full of twists that I never saw coming, it's fast-paced, gripping and it kept me guessing who the murderer was right up until the very end. If you love a thriller, you need to put this on your To Be Read list!
Reasons To Stay Alive - Matt Haig
This is the true story of how Matt Haig came through crisis, triumphed over a mental illness that almost destroyed him and learned to live again. Moving, funny and joyous, Reasons To Stay Alive is more than a memoir. It is a book about making the most of your time on earth.
Oh my goodness, how I wish that this book had been around when I first suffered from depression and anxiety way back in 2013. I think when you're in the throes of mental illness, it's so easy to feel like you're totally alone in how you are feeling. But Reasons To Stay Alive is the reminder and the comfort in the knowledge that someone else has felt the way you do, and come out the other side. The chapters are short, it's easy to digest, perfect to dip in and out of when you feel your mental health is taking a wobble. An absolute breath of fresh air, and I know it's one I'll always have a copy of on my shelf to go to when I need it.
Rating: 4/5
What books have you read and enjoyed recently? Let me know in the comments, I always need recommendations!
Love,
Sian xo
Let's face it, after Lockdowns 1.0, 2.0 & 3.0, we're getting pretty well versed at them, aren't we? (Doesn't make them any less crap each and every time though!)
While I can't let myself get too hopeful that we really are coming to the end of this pandemic in the not-too-distant future, now that we're about to be allowed to at least sit in someone's garden (hooray!), I'm feeling a bit reflective about the past year and what this whole experience has taught me. So, here's 10 lessons I've learned over lockdown.
1. Slow the F down!
For a very long time, I've lived at a hundred miles an hour. I worked 10 hours a day, followed by putting every spare moment into my blog, and when I wasn't doing that I was trying to keep up with all of my other responsibilities or running around making plans, without actually taking time to rest.
When I found myself on furlough a year ago, I was forced to slow down. I still had my blog and content to give me some sense of purpose and focus, but without spending 8am-6pm in the office, I had no choice but to rest more. Even when I went back to work, without being able to go out at the weekend, those two days per week became mine to actually chill out and reset.
This is something I definitely want to carry through even when lockdown is over. I have a habit of saying yes to everything, even when I'm exhausted because I feel I should. But now that I've realised that cosy days at home are, in fact, one of my favourite things ever, I'm going to be trying to make sure I'm spending time actually resting at home and continuing to slow down a bit.
2. You don't need to be physically close to your friends to feel like you're closer than ever.
One of the biggest things that I am grateful for at the moment are how this whole pandemic has strengthened my friendships, especially the long-distance ones. I used to see my best friends from uni three times a year, and occasionally speak in-between. Now, we FaceTime once every couple of weeks, check in on each other regularly and I feel like our friendship is stronger than it has been since we graduated. It just goes to show that distance doesn't have to mean all that much! (Although I still can't wait to see their faces again!)
3. To be grateful for the small things.
Small things like driving to the supermarket on a sunny day with the window down. Or spending a cosy afternoon with a blanket and a book. Or like opening a drawing from a friend's little one with a note saying that they miss you.
And small things that are actually really big things like the fact that my family and friends are all healthy. Or that I have a job when many don't.
4. That you're very lucky to have great work colleagues - even if they do drive you crazy.
I've been working as normal through lockdowns 2 & 3, and while that's had its own worries and uncertainties, it has meant that I've been able to see people every day and not had to worry about the loneliness that might come with working from home.
My colleagues are like having 6 or 7 siblings that do your head in but you do like them deep down. And on the whole, they have really helped to keep me sane, made me laugh when I've been having a wobbly day and I'm pretty lucky to have that.
5. Zoom quizzes were definitely just a novelty - and that novelty wore off quick.
Don't get me wrong, the first few were fun! But I've definitely had enough now.
6. Being neighbourly is still a thing - and it's lovely.
We started getting to know our neighbours during the Clap for Carers on a Thursday, after we clapped and listened to one of the neighbours playing Somewhere Over The Rainbow on his trombone (which never stopped being cute, by the way), we'd stand on our doorsteps and have a chat. Since then we've started chatting regularly, putting each others bins out, we sent one of our neighbours some brownies when they were having a bit of a rough time. And we love that, who knew being friends with your neighbours was still a thing these days! We keep talking about having a party when lockdown is over, which I can't wait for!
7. You still need to make an effort with your other half - even when you're in the same house all the time.
It's SO EASY to get stuck in a rut when you can't go out for tea or meet friends or go to the cinema. And it's easy to think that because you're in the same room, you're spending quality time together but that isn't always the case. Making time for each other is still really important - mine and Dan's favourites have been having a picnic on the living room floor with blankets, party food and a Marvel film, or spending an evening playing silly card games!
8. I miss hugs. A lot.
I can't wait to hug every. Single. Person. I know.
9. Sunshine and exercise are the most underrated mood-lifters.
I didn't do much in the way of exercising in lockdown 1.0, mostly because I just couldn't bring myself to. I felt like I didn't have the mental space for it. But recently, exercise has really helped me through. I've become one of those people who gets up early to exercise! (I know, who am I?!) but I just feel like it sets up my day really well, gets the endorphins going and it's then really difficult for me to go into the office in a bad mood.
And there is no better feeling than the sunshine on your face. The BEST.
10. Bloody hell, I'm much stronger than I thought I was.
What has lockdown taught you?
Love,
Sian xo
Let's face it, after Lockdowns 1.0, 2.0 & 3.0, we're getting pretty well versed at them, aren't we? (Doesn't make them any less crap each and every time though!)
While I can't let myself get too hopeful that we really are coming to the end of this pandemic in the not-too-distant future, now that we're about to be allowed to at least sit in someone's garden (hooray!), I'm feeling a bit reflective about the past year and what this whole experience has taught me. So, here's 10 lessons I've learned over lockdown.
1. Slow the F down!
For a very long time, I've lived at a hundred miles an hour. I worked 10 hours a day, followed by putting every spare moment into my blog, and when I wasn't doing that I was trying to keep up with all of my other responsibilities or running around making plans, without actually taking time to rest.
When I found myself on furlough a year ago, I was forced to slow down. I still had my blog and content to give me some sense of purpose and focus, but without spending 8am-6pm in the office, I had no choice but to rest more. Even when I went back to work, without being able to go out at the weekend, those two days per week became mine to actually chill out and reset.
This is something I definitely want to carry through even when lockdown is over. I have a habit of saying yes to everything, even when I'm exhausted because I feel I should. But now that I've realised that cosy days at home are, in fact, one of my favourite things ever, I'm going to be trying to make sure I'm spending time actually resting at home and continuing to slow down a bit.
2. You don't need to be physically close to your friends to feel like you're closer than ever.
One of the biggest things that I am grateful for at the moment are how this whole pandemic has strengthened my friendships, especially the long-distance ones. I used to see my best friends from uni three times a year, and occasionally speak in-between. Now, we FaceTime once every couple of weeks, check in on each other regularly and I feel like our friendship is stronger than it has been since we graduated. It just goes to show that distance doesn't have to mean all that much! (Although I still can't wait to see their faces again!)
3. To be grateful for the small things.
Small things like driving to the supermarket on a sunny day with the window down. Or spending a cosy afternoon with a blanket and a book. Or like opening a drawing from a friend's little one with a note saying that they miss you.
And small things that are actually really big things like the fact that my family and friends are all healthy. Or that I have a job when many don't.
4. That you're very lucky to have great work colleagues - even if they do drive you crazy.
I've been working as normal through lockdowns 2 & 3, and while that's had its own worries and uncertainties, it has meant that I've been able to see people every day and not had to worry about the loneliness that might come with working from home.
My colleagues are like having 6 or 7 siblings that do your head in but you do like them deep down. And on the whole, they have really helped to keep me sane, made me laugh when I've been having a wobbly day and I'm pretty lucky to have that.
5. Zoom quizzes were definitely just a novelty - and that novelty wore off quick.
Don't get me wrong, the first few were fun! But I've definitely had enough now.
6. Being neighbourly is still a thing - and it's lovely.
We started getting to know our neighbours during the Clap for Carers on a Thursday, after we clapped and listened to one of the neighbours playing Somewhere Over The Rainbow on his trombone (which never stopped being cute, by the way), we'd stand on our doorsteps and have a chat. Since then we've started chatting regularly, putting each others bins out, we sent one of our neighbours some brownies when they were having a bit of a rough time. And we love that, who knew being friends with your neighbours was still a thing these days! We keep talking about having a party when lockdown is over, which I can't wait for!
7. You still need to make an effort with your other half - even when you're in the same house all the time.
It's SO EASY to get stuck in a rut when you can't go out for tea or meet friends or go to the cinema. And it's easy to think that because you're in the same room, you're spending quality time together but that isn't always the case. Making time for each other is still really important - mine and Dan's favourites have been having a picnic on the living room floor with blankets, party food and a Marvel film, or spending an evening playing silly card games!
8. I miss hugs. A lot.
I can't wait to hug every. Single. Person. I know.
9. Sunshine and exercise are the most underrated mood-lifters.
I didn't do much in the way of exercising in lockdown 1.0, mostly because I just couldn't bring myself to. I felt like I didn't have the mental space for it. But recently, exercise has really helped me through. I've become one of those people who gets up early to exercise! (I know, who am I?!) but I just feel like it sets up my day really well, gets the endorphins going and it's then really difficult for me to go into the office in a bad mood.
And there is no better feeling than the sunshine on your face. The BEST.
10. Bloody hell, I'm much stronger than I thought I was.
What has lockdown taught you?
Love,
Sian xo
So here it is, I'm about to spill the tea on Function of Beauty haircare. Yep, the customisable hair care brand that is all over your social media, with influencers and celebs alike singing its praises, claiming that they've 'broken up with drugstore shampoo' and using words like 'revolutionised' and 'life-changing'.
I've had a couple of instances where I went onto the site with the intent of giving it a go, my eyes started watering at the prices, closed the tab and went about my day.
So when my boyfriend found a code online for 50% off your first order, I decided now was the time to try it, and settle whether or not it was worth the bold claims once and for all.
So, how does it work?
Function of Beauty is fully customisable hair care, which is formulated especially with your hair type and hair goals in mind. You fill in the Hair Quiz on the website, where you're asked about your hair type, and are asked to select up to five hair goals. You can choose a silicone-free formula, and pick from a range of colours and scents (so obvs I went for pink). Et voila, you have haircare which is made just for you, and promises to help you achieve your dream hair!
Function of Beauty works on a subscription, and you can choose whether or not you get your top ups monthly, every other month, or just as and when you need it. But you can cancel at any time. I'd say the only thing to bear in mind is that the products ship from the US, so it takes a few weeks to get to you.
I went for a 250ml shampoo and conditioner, and full-price, it costs £29.95. I know, I know. Hella expensive for haircare. Even at 50% off, circa £15 for a small shampoo and conditioner is a far cry from your standard. I just had to close my eyes, enter my card details and hope it was worth the pennies.
Okay Sian, cut to the chase... what did you think?
You have no idea how much I wanted to tell you that the products were only okay. That they weren't worth the price tag, don't worry my loves, save your pennies and stick with your Herbal Essences or Garnier Hair Food because that's what I'm going to do.
I really wanted to tell you that, but I can't.
My little Function of Beauty parcel arrived, with personalised pump-bottles, and cute little stickers. The pink products fit my aesthetic perfectly, and I chose a peach scent which was lovely and not overpowering.
For reference, the hair goals I chose were deep condition, fix split ends, colour protection, anti-frizz and shine. My hair is colour-treated, super-thick, subjected to heat styling on the daily and prone to frizz.
I've been testing my haircare for a good six months or so now, and I'll be honest, I'm way more impressed than I thought I would be. I'd be lying if I said that I saw an instant, dramatic difference from the first use, but I did notice a difference in how soft my hair felt straight away.
I started to see the biggest difference after about three weeks of use. My hair usually gets really frizzy at the roots, especially in the summer, and I really struggle to get shine into my hair and stop it from looking a bit dull. But I've never had shine like since I've been using Function of Beauty, and the frizz has been non-existent.
The real test came when I'd run out of one bottle and I was waiting for my next. I temporarily reverted back to my previous shampoo and conditioner and my hair just did not feel the same. No matter how much I tried, it didn't feel properly clean, the frizz was back and my hair generally just seemed pretty unhappy. It was like my hair and scalp has all of a sudden gone boujie and refused to go back!
So, there you have it. As much as I didn't want it to happen, I am now a Function of Beauty convert, and I ain't going back. I love it! I won't deny that it is expensive, but if you have the pennies to spare and you're curious, definitely give it a go.
Have you ever tried Function of Beauty?
Love,
Sian xo
So here it is, I'm about to spill the tea on Function of Beauty haircare. Yep, the customisable hair care brand that is all over your social media, with influencers and celebs alike singing its praises, claiming that they've 'broken up with drugstore shampoo' and using words like 'revolutionised' and 'life-changing'.
I've had a couple of instances where I went onto the site with the intent of giving it a go, my eyes started watering at the prices, closed the tab and went about my day.
So when my boyfriend found a code online for 50% off your first order, I decided now was the time to try it, and settle whether or not it was worth the bold claims once and for all.
So, how does it work?
Function of Beauty is fully customisable hair care, which is formulated especially with your hair type and hair goals in mind. You fill in the Hair Quiz on the website, where you're asked about your hair type, and are asked to select up to five hair goals. You can choose a silicone-free formula, and pick from a range of colours and scents (so obvs I went for pink). Et voila, you have haircare which is made just for you, and promises to help you achieve your dream hair!
Function of Beauty works on a subscription, and you can choose whether or not you get your top ups monthly, every other month, or just as and when you need it. But you can cancel at any time. I'd say the only thing to bear in mind is that the products ship from the US, so it takes a few weeks to get to you.
I went for a 250ml shampoo and conditioner, and full-price, it costs £29.95. I know, I know. Hella expensive for haircare. Even at 50% off, circa £15 for a small shampoo and conditioner is a far cry from your standard. I just had to close my eyes, enter my card details and hope it was worth the pennies.
Okay Sian, cut to the chase... what did you think?
You have no idea how much I wanted to tell you that the products were only okay. That they weren't worth the price tag, don't worry my loves, save your pennies and stick with your Herbal Essences or Garnier Hair Food because that's what I'm going to do.
I really wanted to tell you that, but I can't.
My little Function of Beauty parcel arrived, with personalised pump-bottles, and cute little stickers. The pink products fit my aesthetic perfectly, and I chose a peach scent which was lovely and not overpowering.
For reference, the hair goals I chose were deep condition, fix split ends, colour protection, anti-frizz and shine. My hair is colour-treated, super-thick, subjected to heat styling on the daily and prone to frizz.
I've been testing my haircare for a good six months or so now, and I'll be honest, I'm way more impressed than I thought I would be. I'd be lying if I said that I saw an instant, dramatic difference from the first use, but I did notice a difference in how soft my hair felt straight away.
I started to see the biggest difference after about three weeks of use. My hair usually gets really frizzy at the roots, especially in the summer, and I really struggle to get shine into my hair and stop it from looking a bit dull. But I've never had shine like since I've been using Function of Beauty, and the frizz has been non-existent.
The real test came when I'd run out of one bottle and I was waiting for my next. I temporarily reverted back to my previous shampoo and conditioner and my hair just did not feel the same. No matter how much I tried, it didn't feel properly clean, the frizz was back and my hair generally just seemed pretty unhappy. It was like my hair and scalp has all of a sudden gone boujie and refused to go back!
So, there you have it. As much as I didn't want it to happen, I am now a Function of Beauty convert, and I ain't going back. I love it! I won't deny that it is expensive, but if you have the pennies to spare and you're curious, definitely give it a go.
Have you ever tried Function of Beauty?
Love,
Sian xo
They say it's never to early to start incorporating anti-ageing products into your routine, and to be honest, I wish I'd started sooner. BUT here we are!
Now I've reached the grand old age of 27, I am starting to notice the occasional fine line around the eye area, and they're just starting to form on my forehead too.
I wish I could say 'It's all A-OKAY, I'm owning my fine lines and I'm going to grow old gracefully like Helen Mirren or Meryl Streep', but I'll be honest, I just can't and I'm determined to hold off any further signs of ageing for as long as possible.
Anti-ageing skincare is a bit of a minefield, and while I'm trying to hold off using anything too potent whilst I'm still in my twenties, I have discovered a few absolute gems that will help to fight off those pesky first lines for a bit longer.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Eye Serum
I picked up this cult Elemis product on a whim, when I felt a bit like I was at my wits end with the creases under my eyes. It was really getting me down, and when someone on Insta recommended the Elemis Eye Serum to me, I just went for it despite the fact that it was a little heavy on the purse-strings.
But it was worth it! It's a lovely lightweight serum, absorbs quickly and sits really well under make up. And I've definitely seen a difference since using it, my under-eye creases seem just a tiny bit less prominent and my make-up seems to last a little bit longer with it on, which is a big deal for me when I'm in the office 9-10 hours a day.
The Body Shop Drops of Youth Concentrate
I have a lot of love for this product! I've been using it every single day for about a year, I think I'm on my third bottle now. It's packed with natural ingredients and a little bit of salicylic acid. It's a really gorgeous texture, doesn't irritate my sensitive skin and as soon as I apply I can see that my face looks more fresh and bright.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift
I recently had a virtual skin consultation with Dermalogica, and the lovely expert recommended the Stress Positive Eye Lift to me when I told her that my under-eye area was one of my biggest concerns. I've been using it every night for the last couple of months and I don't think I could be without it now!
The Eye Lift is designed to brighten, firm and reduce signs of tiredness and ageing. You can use it as a 5-minute mask, but I love putting it on before bed and letting it absorb overnight so that I wake up with fresh eyes in the morning. It has a metal applicator, which feels so lovely and cooling on tired eyes after a long day!
I put it down for a night and used one of my other night-time creams, and oh my goodness I could see a change straight away. I woke up and my eyes were puffier, my dark circles were more prominent... so I'm sticking with my Dermalogica for now!
Pixi Vit-C Tonic
Vitamin C is a great ingredient for anti-ageing, as well as making your skin look brighter. I've been trying to incorporate a bit more Vitamin C into my morning routine. This toner is absolutely lovely, it smells fabulous, and really helps to boost the brightness in my skin and I know it's helping to keep the pesky lines at bay behind the scenes.
[PR SAMPLE] Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil
I think this is the most powerful anti-ageing formula I use. There's a lot of mixed opinion on when you should start incorporating retinol into your routine - spanning from mid-twenties to your thirties. I've been using this just once a week for the last year or so, and I'll probably up that to twice a week once I start approaching 30.
The Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil is so innovative, because it combines retinol and salicylic acid - targeting breakouts at the same time as fighting the signs of ageing. I just use 5-6 drops, pat into the skin, and allow it to absorb for about 30 minutes before applying moisturiser. I love that it targets two skin concerns in one fell swoop, and it's definitely helped to keep any more wrinkles at bay! The ONLY complaint that I have is that I can't stand the smell, I don't know what it is but I just don't like it. But I can cope because the product is good!
What are your favourite products for anti-ageing benefits?
Love,
Sian xo
They say it's never to early to start incorporating anti-ageing products into your routine, and to be honest, I wish I'd started sooner. BUT here we are!
Now I've reached the grand old age of 27, I am starting to notice the occasional fine line around the eye area, and they're just starting to form on my forehead too.
I wish I could say 'It's all A-OKAY, I'm owning my fine lines and I'm going to grow old gracefully like Helen Mirren or Meryl Streep', but I'll be honest, I just can't and I'm determined to hold off any further signs of ageing for as long as possible.
Anti-ageing skincare is a bit of a minefield, and while I'm trying to hold off using anything too potent whilst I'm still in my twenties, I have discovered a few absolute gems that will help to fight off those pesky first lines for a bit longer.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Eye Serum
I picked up this cult Elemis product on a whim, when I felt a bit like I was at my wits end with the creases under my eyes. It was really getting me down, and when someone on Insta recommended the Elemis Eye Serum to me, I just went for it despite the fact that it was a little heavy on the purse-strings.
But it was worth it! It's a lovely lightweight serum, absorbs quickly and sits really well under make up. And I've definitely seen a difference since using it, my under-eye creases seem just a tiny bit less prominent and my make-up seems to last a little bit longer with it on, which is a big deal for me when I'm in the office 9-10 hours a day.
The Body Shop Drops of Youth Concentrate
I have a lot of love for this product! I've been using it every single day for about a year, I think I'm on my third bottle now. It's packed with natural ingredients and a little bit of salicylic acid. It's a really gorgeous texture, doesn't irritate my sensitive skin and as soon as I apply I can see that my face looks more fresh and bright.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift
I recently had a virtual skin consultation with Dermalogica, and the lovely expert recommended the Stress Positive Eye Lift to me when I told her that my under-eye area was one of my biggest concerns. I've been using it every night for the last couple of months and I don't think I could be without it now!
The Eye Lift is designed to brighten, firm and reduce signs of tiredness and ageing. You can use it as a 5-minute mask, but I love putting it on before bed and letting it absorb overnight so that I wake up with fresh eyes in the morning. It has a metal applicator, which feels so lovely and cooling on tired eyes after a long day!
I put it down for a night and used one of my other night-time creams, and oh my goodness I could see a change straight away. I woke up and my eyes were puffier, my dark circles were more prominent... so I'm sticking with my Dermalogica for now!
Pixi Vit-C Tonic
Vitamin C is a great ingredient for anti-ageing, as well as making your skin look brighter. I've been trying to incorporate a bit more Vitamin C into my morning routine. This toner is absolutely lovely, it smells fabulous, and really helps to boost the brightness in my skin and I know it's helping to keep the pesky lines at bay behind the scenes.
[PR SAMPLE] Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil
I think this is the most powerful anti-ageing formula I use. There's a lot of mixed opinion on when you should start incorporating retinol into your routine - spanning from mid-twenties to your thirties. I've been using this just once a week for the last year or so, and I'll probably up that to twice a week once I start approaching 30.
The Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil is so innovative, because it combines retinol and salicylic acid - targeting breakouts at the same time as fighting the signs of ageing. I just use 5-6 drops, pat into the skin, and allow it to absorb for about 30 minutes before applying moisturiser. I love that it targets two skin concerns in one fell swoop, and it's definitely helped to keep any more wrinkles at bay! The ONLY complaint that I have is that I can't stand the smell, I don't know what it is but I just don't like it. But I can cope because the product is good!
What are your favourite products for anti-ageing benefits?
Love,
Sian xo
I've always suffered with dry skin, but the recent cold snap, stress and sitting in a heated office for 10 hours a day seems to have made the problem worse.
I'll soon be switching up my routines ready for the spring and summer months, but I thought I'd share the products that have really helped my dry skin through the winter, for anyone else who is also struggling!
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser
This is a recent one to my collection, but it's SO GOOD. It's the only cleanser I've been reaching for for the last few weeks, because I instantly saw and felt a difference in my skin from the very first use. The texture is creamy and feels lovely on the skin, but it's still fairly lightweight so I feel like I can use it morning and evening. After having real issues with my make up clinging to dry patches on my skin over the course of the day, since adding this cleanser into my routine, that problem has pretty much cleared up. Loveeeeee!
The Body Shop Vitamin E Hydrating Toner
This toner is bloody gorgeous, it feels like a huge drink for when my skin is dehydrated. My skin can be a bit sensitive but this is really gentle and doesn't irritate at all. It's a little thicker than the toners that I've used previously, but absorbs fairly quickly and just leaves the skin super-soft.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll definitely have seen me race about the Daily Microfoliant a lot. It's an absolute staple in my skincare routine and I can't see that changing any time soon! It leaves my skin feeling brand-new every time I use it, getting rid of all of the dead skin cells every time makes it feel so lovely and soft!
Glossier Moon Mask
I am honestly obsessed with this mask. I picked it up on a whim on the Glossier website, and I'm so glad I did! I wouldn't be without it now. I just pop it on for 20 minutes when my skin is feeling dry and dehydrated and the difference is amazing. My skin just drinks in alllllllll the moisture, and always feels so much better for it!
The Body Shop Vitamin E Intensive Moisturiser
This is without a doubt my favourite night cream EVER. It's really lovely and rich, and sinks into the skin so well, and I'm guaranteed to wake up with softer skin in the morning.
[PR PRODUCT] Lily & Loaf Bedtime Cream
The Lily & Loaf night cream is another new product to my routine, but ever since it landed on my doorstep I've been reaching for it every night since. While it's a light, almost mousse-like texture, it adds so much moisture to my skin. I love popping on a generous layer before bed and letting it absorb over night and letting it do its thing, waking up with super-hydrated skin in the morning. And it smells like a spa which is just dreamy!
What are your favourite skincare products?
Love,
Sian xo
I've always suffered with dry skin, but the recent cold snap, stress and sitting in a heated office for 10 hours a day seems to have made the problem worse.
I'll soon be switching up my routines ready for the spring and summer months, but I thought I'd share the products that have really helped my dry skin through the winter, for anyone else who is also struggling!
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser
This is a recent one to my collection, but it's SO GOOD. It's the only cleanser I've been reaching for for the last few weeks, because I instantly saw and felt a difference in my skin from the very first use. The texture is creamy and feels lovely on the skin, but it's still fairly lightweight so I feel like I can use it morning and evening. After having real issues with my make up clinging to dry patches on my skin over the course of the day, since adding this cleanser into my routine, that problem has pretty much cleared up. Loveeeeee!
The Body Shop Vitamin E Hydrating Toner
This toner is bloody gorgeous, it feels like a huge drink for when my skin is dehydrated. My skin can be a bit sensitive but this is really gentle and doesn't irritate at all. It's a little thicker than the toners that I've used previously, but absorbs fairly quickly and just leaves the skin super-soft.
[PR PRODUCT] Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll definitely have seen me race about the Daily Microfoliant a lot. It's an absolute staple in my skincare routine and I can't see that changing any time soon! It leaves my skin feeling brand-new every time I use it, getting rid of all of the dead skin cells every time makes it feel so lovely and soft!
Glossier Moon Mask
I am honestly obsessed with this mask. I picked it up on a whim on the Glossier website, and I'm so glad I did! I wouldn't be without it now. I just pop it on for 20 minutes when my skin is feeling dry and dehydrated and the difference is amazing. My skin just drinks in alllllllll the moisture, and always feels so much better for it!
The Body Shop Vitamin E Intensive Moisturiser
This is without a doubt my favourite night cream EVER. It's really lovely and rich, and sinks into the skin so well, and I'm guaranteed to wake up with softer skin in the morning.
[PR PRODUCT] Lily & Loaf Bedtime Cream
The Lily & Loaf night cream is another new product to my routine, but ever since it landed on my doorstep I've been reaching for it every night since. While it's a light, almost mousse-like texture, it adds so much moisture to my skin. I love popping on a generous layer before bed and letting it absorb over night and letting it do its thing, waking up with super-hydrated skin in the morning. And it smells like a spa which is just dreamy!
What are your favourite skincare products?
Love,
Sian xo
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