28.8.13

Bioderma VS. L'oreal Micellar Water

If you read my Recent Purchases #1 post, you will know that I bought L'oreal's new Skin Perfection Micellar Solution. Us beauty addicts have been going mad for the stuff! I have read many reviews and seen it in many monthly favourite posts and hauls, so I had to get my hands on it! Many of you asked me to write a review for you, so thats just what I'm going to do (because I'm nice like that!). Im a huge fan of Bioderma's micellar solution, so thought I would compare the two for you, so lets begin.

Bioderma VS. L'oreal Micellar Water


I can't deny it, I LOVE Bioderma's micellar solution! I bought it a few months back and I have been converted - I'm never to use make-up wipes ever, ever again! (For those of you who may not know what micellar solution is, it dissolves make-up and is essentially a water cleanser and make-up remover.)   I couldn't believe how good it is! It looks and smells just like water (hence the H20) and I use it every evening with two cotton pads and swipe it gentle over my face. It removes my make-up thoroughly and efficiently and leaves my skin feeling soft and super fresh and doesn't leave that greasy residue you get with some make-up wipes. As I suffer from dry and sensitive skin (lucky me!), I often find make-up remover can leave my skin feeling tight and red, whereas Bioderma leaves my skin feeling great, the solution is very gentle on the skin. It is also great at removing waterproof mascara and removes eye make-up gently and quickly - you wont loose any lashes from scrubbing! I also find that if I use my Liz Earle cleanse and polish after, there is very rarely any make-up left on my muslin cloth! Overall, my skin is left feeling toned, fresh and super clean! In my opinion this is the best micellar solution out of the two, but it is a little on the pricer side. But, I will most defiantly be purchasing this again without a shadow of a doubt.


I'm very impressed with L'oreals micellar solution! Just like Bioderma's solution it looks and smells just like water and is extremely gentle on the skin and eye area. The two are very similar, however in my opinion I would say that Bioderma is marginally better at thoroughly removing all my make-up, as when I use my cleanse and polish after using this product, I quite often find make-up on my muslin cloth. I also have to use a tad more of the L'oreal solution to completely remove my make-up - especially when using waterproof mascara. However, that is not to say it doesn't remove make-up well, because it is still far better than using make-up wipes and it  is a great cleanser as it leaves my skin feeling clean and soft. This solution is 3 in 1, it claims to dissolve make-up, unclog pores and improve impurities and tone and smooth your skin. In all honesty it does do these three things - hooray! Bioderma has also had the same effect on my skin as well as helping to minimise my pores.  This product is also very reasonably priced at just £4.99 and can be found on the high street, unlike Bioderma which is currently sold online only here in the UK. If I cant get my hands on Bioderma, I will most definitely opt for this one instead! The bottle size is good however, I have spilt it a few times so be careful! I have been enjoying using this product and will continue to until the very last drop! Overall, both of these micellar solutions are great - one a little more effective at removing make-up, yet both great cleansers. Everyone's skin is different so it would be worth giving them both a go, because either way you wont be disappointed! Micellar solution is the way forward! 

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I hope you enjoyed reading this post! I just want to add that I have recently reached just over 100 followers!! This is incredible as I have only been blogging for a couple of months!! I just want to thank every single one of you who follow my blog and to those of you who have left comments, it means the world to me that you enjoy reading what I have to write - it's actually quite flattering! So, I'm going to be doing a giveaway within the next week or so, to say thank you! I haven't quite decided yet what Im going to give away - but I have an idea (exciting stuff)! If you have any ideas of what I could include in the giveaway leave a comment below! So keep your eyes peeled! And thank you again.

Hope you all had a fab bank holiday weekend.
Have you tried either of these? What are your thoughts?
Emily
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23.8.13

Real Techniques Eye Brush Starter Kit // Review

I'm very, very excited to finally have bought the Real Techniques eye starter set by Samantha Chapman (one of the lovely Pixiwoo sisters). I have been after this brush set for a few months now as I love, love, love my other brushes from her collection! I own a handful of the RT brushes, including both foundation brushes, the powder brush, the blusher brush and more recently the stippling brush and I have been so happy with the price, the quality of the brushes and the the finish they give when I use them to apply my make-up! If you haven't got your hands on any of these brushes, I highly recommend you buy a couple! And if you are thinking to yourself, "Emily you are getting very excited over some brushes!" I know, I cant help it! Well made brushes make a huge difference in the appearance and finish of your make-up - don't knock the enthusiasm until you buy some of the brushes! Honestly you will not be disappointed.



This brush set is just perfect, as I am currently loving to wear eyeshadow on a daily basis. I used to   get overwhelmed by the amount of eye brushes that there are on offer on make-up counters, but this brush set great and has made it all a little less daunting! The set covers everything you need to do a classic smoky eye, eyeliner and filling in your brows. The set cost just £21.99 from Boots which in my opinion is a very reasonable price for 5 quality brushes, as I have spent that much on just one brush before (which I have later regretted!) Boots also currently have buy 1 get 1 half price on RT brushes - so this is the perfect time to get your hands on a couple.


In the set there are 5 brushes  in total, which are made from ultra plush taklon bristles that guaranteed to give a beautiful finish - they are also super soft! There is a base shadow brush, a deluxe crease brush, an accent brush, a pixel-pointed eyeliner brush and a brow brush.  I am also aware that a few of the brushes are great for multiple uses and many bloggers and beauty gurus love using the deluxe crease brush for concealer. What I also like about all the RT brushes, is that they are all labelled so you know which ones are used for what (great for beginners). They are also colour co-ordinated, so for example the eye brushes are purple and the base brushes are gold - what a nice little finish! On the back of the box there is also a quick guide as to how you can use the brushes and lastly you can even go online and watch Samantha Chapman using the kit! The case the brushes come in, is also pretty handy as it can be used in multiple ways and it also has space for an extra brushes - Samantha literally thought of everything! I cannot wait to use these, I never thought I would be so excited by brushes.

Watch Samantha Chapman use this set here!
Do you have any of the RT brushes? Which one is your favourite? 
Emily
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21.8.13

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

I can sing nothing but praise, for Clarins Beauty Flash Balm! I have spent months buying and trying primers from Benefit The POREfessional, Revlons Photoready and bareMinerals prime time foundation primer,  and nothing has come close to my Beauty Flash Balm! All of the primers I have tried have been voted some of the best, but personally I have been so disappointed, although they have helped my make-up last, my foundation wasn't as easy to apply and my skin was left looking dull and dry. For all you beauty beginners, primers are used to prep your skin for your foundation. Primers ensure your skin is hydrated and leave a smooth surface for your foundation and can make your foundation last all day.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

I have dry to normal skin and found I had to double up when using all these previous primers by using a moisturiser (which I dont like to do, as I put enough on my skin already - if I can avoid adding an unnecessary layer I will!). Also, using both a primer and moisturiser is just an added expense. Although you can use a moisturiser to prime your skin, it wont necessarily have the added benefits of a specially designed primer such as pore minimisation, filling in lines and wrinkles and the added bonus of your make-up lasting for hours. As I have dry skin I found that these pervious primers didn't hydrate my skin at all.

However after months of experimenting with primers, I have FINALLY found a primer that ticks all the boxes (yes all the boxes!). I love Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, it creates the perfect base for make-up and I would say it is a great primer for those with dry skin like myself. I don't have use too much just a pea-sized amount and I smooth it onto my skin rather than rubbing it in. I then instantly apply my foundation as directed in the instructions - it works better this way. Sometimes I also mix my foundation with the balm if I’m in a rush and the results are just amazing! My skin is left looking fresh, bright and dewy and it has also helped to even out my skin tone and minimize my pores. In the long run it helps my make-up last and really gives my skin that extra boost, whilst keeping it hydrated! It is also great for hiding a hangover (but lets keep that between me and you!). And if you didn't think that was enough you can also use this Beauty Flash Balm as a facial mask by smoothing onto the skin and leaving it for 10-15 minutes and it will help to energize and smooth your skin - I love products that can be used in multiple ways. It is fragranced and in my opinion isn't as subtle as I would like it to be, but I can look past that! All in all, the results of using this primer are well worth the extra couple of minutes it takes to apply it and if you have dry skin like I do or dull skin, save your pennies because this really is worth buying! I can't get enough of it! However, if you are on a budget Nivea do a great alternative which is also great for dry skin, it is called Nivea's express hydration primer and you can also buy that here

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm


Have you tried this primer? Next I would really like to try one of the Laura Mericer primers, as they have different primers for different skin types. Clinique have also just launched a similar range of primers.

Have you tried any of these primers? 
Emily

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18.8.13

Recent Purchases #1

I spend hours in Boots browsing, walking up and down the aisles picking up products and pondering. Then I walk down to the make-up section and spend another hour or two testing products all over my hands! The staff in my local Boots see a lot of me and this was proven this week, when a staff member asked how I was and what lip colour I was after today! This is a sign... a sign that I spend way too much time shopping in Boots and that I own too many lipsticks (oopsy!). But I answered and then carried on browsing and yes, I did by a few new lip products... and yes, Im sure I will be back again next week *giggles*. So today I just wanted to share with all you lovely people what I have bought this week and I would just like to add that Boots currently have a 3rd of skincare, so I have bagged some bargains and if you haven't, get down there - quick. 

Recent Purchases #1

Funnily enough I didn't pay a penny for this little pot of Clinique eye cream! I received a voucher from Boots in the post, for free a sample pot (good times!). Im a huge fan of Clinique products and Im very much looking forward to giving this a go - especially as I'm loving eye products at the moment! This cream has been designed to help reduce dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. I actually really like the formula of this eye cream, it is a cream/gel constancy and this should help keep makeup in place, which is a huge plus, as eye creams can often move your makeup around. 

To be frank, I had no idea what thermal spring water sprays actually were, until I came across the beauty blogging world! Thermal water sprays, contain a unique ingrediant which is renowned by dermatologists for its soothing properties. The thermal spring water is meant to help sooth sensitive, allergic and irritated skin. I cant wait to add this to my skincare routine, as it can be used after cleansing and also after applying make-up rather like a fixing spray. It also claims to help reduce redness, which is a huge plus for me as I suffer from blotchy skin. If this does exactly what it claims to do, theres a high chance I will repurchase this product in the future! 

I'm just about to run out of my much loved Bioderma micellar solution. So when I saw that Boots had a third of skincare, I couldn't resist picking this up and giving it a go! I have read some very good reviews on this product and I'm hoping (fingers crossed) it is just as good, if not better than my Bioderma micellar solution - as the Bioderma solution is a little on the pricey side. For all of you, who have no idea what Im talking about, micellar solution dissolves make-up and is essentially a water cleanser and make-up remover and I love the stuff.

I love a good face mask, there is nothing better than pampering yourself! Agreed? After receiving Michael Todd's charcoal face mask for my birthday, I have gone face mask crazy and I cant get enough of them. This is another product which I have seen featured on a few blogs. Im very excited to give this one a try. This is also my first purchase from Una Brennan and Im looking forward to seeing what this skin care brand has to offer! Have you tried any of their products?

This has sold out everywhere! I went to several different Boots stores in the hope of buying this product and found it on my 5th attempt! This product has been raved about online, so Im not surprised it was sold out pretty much everywhere - especially with a third off the price! This serum simply increases skin's hydration level and minimises the need to moisturise as frequently. I have very dry skin, so anything that is going to give my skin a hydration boost is must have for me! I must admit out of all the products I have purchased here, Im most looking forward to using this one - I hope I'm not disappointed, as it is pricey at £24.99 for just 30ml.

This is a new liquid pen liner from Rimmel. I thought I would give it a go as I love a good eyeliner! Especially one which is easy and quick to use. What I like about this eyeliner pen is that it is 3D and slanted, so you can achieve both thick or thin lines in one stroke! The eyeliner is also waterproof and smudge proof! What more could you ask for? 

Recent Purchases #1

Revlon Lip Butters £7.99 each or two for £10.00:
Who doesn't love Revlon Lip Butters? If you don't own one... you must! And if you do, what is your favourite? The formula is lovely and great for those who aren't keen on lipsticks as the colour is sheer yet buildable. They are also very hydrating and come in some brilliant shades. I picked up two -Strawberry Shortcake which is a subtle light pink and Wild Watermelon which is a near coral-red toned colour which is great for the summer and perfect for autumn! I just couldn't resist buying a couple more, as Relvon are currently offering two of their lip products for ten pounds - bargain.

Recent Purchases #1
Left to right: Strawberry Shortcake/ Wild Watermelon 

I have a funny feeling some of these products could appear in my monthly favourites! Is there anything here that you would like to see a review on in the future? 
Emily
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12.8.13

La Roche-Possay Effaclar Duo

La Roche-Possay Effaclar Duo

This product is a God send - a miracle! I'm obsessed! If you haven't heard of this product, or this skin care range - where have you been?! This moisturiser/serum has completely changed my skin! I can imagine you are reading this and thinking, "Yeah, yeah, its just a load of hype and another skin care product to add to all the rest!", but honestly, if you suffer from spot prone skin, or suffer from those annoying red bumps that like to sit under the skin, this proudct is for you! La Roche-Possay, is a French skin care brand and their products can be bought online and in Boots here in the UK. The Effaclar Duo is a lightweight moisturiser/serum which unclogs and corrects your skin, by reducing appearance of imperfections and purifying pores. It is truly incredible and does exactly what is says on the tin! I bought it after reading about it online and after watching a one of Tanya Burr's monthly favourite videos - Thanks Tanya! I thought I would give it a go and I will never look back now - just wish I had heard about it sooner, so Im going to tell all of you about it now.

La Roche-Possay Effaclar Duo

La Roche-Possay Effaclar Duo

I am currently on my 3rd tube and I love it! I use it under my make up, or on its own mixed with a little moisturiser every morning and night. It absorbs well and is quite refreshing when applied to the skin. It has subtle scent, which I wouldn't say is fragranced or unpleasant. When I first purchased this, my skin was prone to spots around my chin and jaw line and they would take forever to fade!! I used this product daily and within a few days, they had honestly started to clear up and within a couple of weeks, my skin had completely changed, my skin was visibly clearer and I couldn't of been happier! My sister even mentioned on a couple of occasions, about how good my skin looked. I was so chuffed that I had finally found something that actually works for me - just one product, I couldn't believe it! It is also very good at targeting those horrid bumps under the skin. My skin now appears more healthy and in my opinion, your make up will always look better, if the base you start with is clear and smooth and this will most defiantly help you achieve that! One thing I will add, is if your skin is super sensitive or dry, I wouldn't use this daily as it can dry out your skin - so don't over do it! When I stopped using this product after running out, I started noticing my skin breaking out a little, so I ran straight to the shops and bought another tube and once again, my skin is starting to look clearer just after a couple of uses!  This just shows how amazing this product is - it is very fast acting! I couldn't be without this product now! In all honesty for just £13.00 it is a bargain in my eyes, yes a little more pricey than your regular drugstore skin care, but I haven't spent any more money on spot fighting facial wash or cream and it is far cheaper than many high end spot treatments! If you are wiling to spend a little more on your skincare and suffer from spot prone skin I highly recommend this, I promise you will not look back.

Have you tried this product or any from this skin care brand? What do you think? 
Emily
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7.8.13

Bourjois 1 Second Gel Polish // Review

There is one thing about nail varnish that so many of us hate... chipping! Thats right, those couple of  nails that start to chip and you've only had your polish on for 24 hours! So, Barry M and Bourjois along with a few others, like Boots No 7, have bought out their equivalent to gel polish - about time too! This is all a bit exciting if you are like me and hate chipped nail varnish, or you can't afford to pay £25+ for UV gel polish at the nail salon! Anyway... I recently got my hands on a couple of the new Bourjois 1 Second Gel Polishes (£5.99). I was instantly drawn to the colour selection and took some silly amount of time to choose (the colours where amazing!). I ended up buying Turquoise Rock and Meli Melon. There are 20 shades to choose from, but not all stores stock all 20 shades. Boots and Superdrug both stock these polishes and Boots are currently offering 3 for 2.

Bourjois 1 Second Gel Polish // Review

Meli Melon/ Turquoise Block

Bourjois 1 Second Gel Polish // ReviewIf you aren't the best at painting your nails generally, I wouldn't recommend this polish unless you like a challenge! This is purely for the fact, that if you dont cover your nail in polish in one stroke and you then try to reapply and reapply it does get a bit gloopy and it gets a little bit messy. This polish requires patience and practice - you have be warned! The consistency of the polish is by no means thick like UV gel polish, however the quality of the polish is great and the colour payoff is incredible - the colour you see in the bottle, is the exact colour you will get on your nails with 1 coat! The brush is a lovely shape and I found I managed to cover all my nails with one quick stroke of polish and the brush shape helped to give a very neat salon finish. However, I would disagree with Bourjois's claim that it dries in 50 seconds and say that it does take a couple of minutes to dry properly - rather like your standard nail varnish. But when it does dry, the finish is super glossy, smooth and gel like and leaves your nails feeling strong. The polish lasts around 2/3 days before chipping and if you find your more prone to chipping, Bourjois also have a gel top coat.

Overall I am really impressed with this polish and will without a doubt be investing in a few more.

Have you tried the polishes from this range? Any colour recommendations? 
Emily
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6.8.13

Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturiser // Review

Now then, I know that a lot of people and beauty bloggers are very curious about this product, so I just wanted to give you all a little review. I had my eye on this product since it came out a couple of months back and every time I would go to my local Boots, I would somehow find myself standing by the display, spraying the tester all over the shop (typical me!). But it took me a little while to actually buy it! I was so sceptical of the product and its price of £4.99. I thought to myself that at the end of the day it is just a gimmicky way to moisturise and to be honest, that is pretty much what it is - but who doesn't like an easy, quick and effective way to apply moisturiser?! 

Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturiser // Review

Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturiser // Review
Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturiser £5.99 
I bought the scent aloe fresh as I wasn't keen on the other two scents, these were coco butter which smelt too sweet for me and oat which smelt like porridge - not a fan! But I really like the aloe fresh scent, it is fresh (hence the name) and smells clean. I have been slightly obsessed with this spray and go moisturiser and have applied it every morning and night purely for the fact it is so easy to apply and smells so good! I just spray it all over and rub it in if it hasn't already absorbed. It applies evenly and you dont need to apply much, so hopefully it will go a long way and last a while! It also feels super silky and light! It leaves my skin feeling soft and when applied it is quite cooling, which is always a bonus in the summer! It also leaves no sticky residue so you can put your clothes straight on - which is great for anyone who doesn't have the time, to stand around naked whilst their moisturiser dries (we have all been there!). The top is also lockable so no need to worry about it spraying everywhere! It would be great for holiday or for the gym... for everyday use.

Vaseline have done a great job with the body moisturiser - it is genuis! I can't really fault it because it does exactly what it says on the can! If you are a lazy when it comes to moisturising or don't moisturise at all, this is defiantly worth a go. If this product lasts as long as my bottled moisturiser I will be very impressed.

Have you too bought this? If not are you tempted?
Emily
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3.8.13

L'oreal Wild Ombre Kit Results // Review

 Last night at 10:30pm I had the urge to Ombre my hair.... We have all been there and been stuck in a rut with our hair, not knowing what to do or what colour to dye it! So on a whim I did it and yes, many of you might say that it's a bit late to jump on the Ombre bandwagon, but it is something I have wanted to do for a while now, but never had the guts too and Ombre hair isn't going anywhere anytime soon! So, I thought I would share with you what I thought of the kit and the results.

L'oreal Wild Ombre Kit Results // Review
L'oreal Preference Wild Ombres No 2 Dip Dye Hair Kit
I purchased the L'oreal Paris Wild Ombres Kit, which is  for all of you that don't know, a kit specially designed to Ombre you hair (which is really just a posh word for dip dyed), which can be bought on the high street at just £6.99, which is considerably cheaper than what it would cost at the hairdressers -bargain! I bought this after watching many people rave about it on YouTube. I purchased the Ombre No 2 which is for dark blonde to medium brown - which of course is my hair colour! They have three different options for different hair colours from dark brown to blonde - something for everyone. 

L'oreal Wild Ombre Kit Results // Review
Before 
Firstly the kit was simple and the instructions were easy to follow. I ensured my hair was knot free to start, by running my much trusted tangle teezer through it and then I sectioned my hair into two halves: top and bottom. I started with the bottom layer and applied the mixture to the brush applying the product to the tips first, then working my way up to just below my chin. When I first started to apply the product to my hair, I was concerned as I have very thick long hair and couldn't see the dye being enough, but it was and actually there was a little dye left in the bottle at the end. I then repeated this process and saw quite rapidly my hair changing colour which panicked me slightly! One of the downsides was I could see my hair getting damaged - it was pinging all over the place and I even apologised to my hair... yep thats right I spoke to my hair... (it was late after all!). But that is expected when effectively bleaching your hair. Also towards the end of the application a lot of the product was gathering in the brush, as it was becoming difficult to brush it through my hair in the condition it was in! After 25 minutes I jumped in the shower (to my joy!) and rinsed my hair. I used the whole pot of conditioner (excessive?) which comes with in the kit as I didn't want my hair to dry like straw too! This instantly helped and I could run my fingers through my hair and it felt like new! I then let my hair air dry as it didn't need any further damage and here are the results:

L'oreal Wild Ombre Kit Results // Review
After (Excuse my PJs!) 
L'oreal Wild Ombre Kit Results // Review
And another after...
I must admit I did panic slightly during application of the dye as I could see my hair getting damaged as I mentioned. But no fear, it feels just as it did before (which is surprising!) and looks super healthy considering! I am very happy with the results and Im glad I took the plunge and finally did it! I will put a better quality picture up soon! As my camera doesn't do it justice! With the proper hair care products I should be able to look after my new golden locks! I would recommend this product to anyone to who is considering to ombre their hair - just give it a go! Why not! Just keep in mind the damage it may cause to your hair. But I give it to L'oreal, it works and it is hassle free! Like I said it is never too late to jump on the ombre bandwagon.

Have you ever used this kit? What do you think? 
Emily
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2.8.13

My Payday Wish List

My Payday Wish List

As it is the start of August and payday is just around the corner (yippee!), I wanted to share with you my payday wish list! To be honest, I did have to shorten my rather long list to just 6 items... But I managed to do it! Let me know if you have tried or have any of these products, I would love to know what your opinions are.

I have wanted this eyeshadow palette for a few months now and this month I will buy it, no matter what it takes! It is a gorgeous shadow palette, with ten neutral shades including Kitten, which is an eyeshadow I have been lusting after, after watching a few YouTube tutorials.

I am a sucker for a nice bag and I just love how high-end this bag looks! I love the shape, which is very similar to a Prada handbag I spotted last time I was in Selfridges. I also love a big bag, if you have read my 'Whats in my bag - summer edition', you will know I like to carry my life around with me... so a big bag is always best.

I love this floral jumper dress from ASOS! I love that it is a jumper/dress, it looks ultra comfy but sexy -  perfect for those lazy days. I also love the colours, especially the mint green. The contrast trims is also a nice finish. I think this jumper dress would look great, with or without tights/leggings, paired with my white saddle bag and my converse - comfy.

I have heard some great things about this face mask and I have been persuaded to fork out a little extra to try it. I am yet to be satisfied by a mud mask, as I have super dry skin and find most mud masks dry it out even more. I'm quite looking forward to giving this a try.

I already have a few of the Real Technique brushes and I love them! So it would only be right to complete my collection by getting the starter kit... especially if I will be buying the Stila eyeshadow palette! Good makeup brushes make all the difference! I highly recommend the Real Technique brushes if you haven't already bought one, they are super affordable and I cant fault them.

I have worn my NARS Orgasm blusher to death the last year and it has to be my favourite blusher. I feel its time I venture out and buy another NARS blusher... well why not! I have recently been to a NARS counter and been very tempted by the NARS blusher in Sin, which is a plummy version of NARS Orgasm. NARS are renowned for their blushers and I can't wait to own a couple more (I'm rather excited by the thought of this... is that sad!?). 

Have you got any of these products? What are you after this month?
Emily
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