Spring Makeup Trends 2017.

Hello! 

Firstly, Happy New Year (I Know, it's been a while!)

Secondly, you are probably wondering where I went as I haven't blogged a long time. 

Well, I didn't go anywhere. I just felt I no longer wanted to blog. It was taking up time that I didn't have and I didn't feel people were engaging with me as much as I'd hoped.

Anyway, I am blogging again (as a hobby for the time being) but if I could make a career out of it, that would be perfect, but for now I shall be writing whenever I possibly can.

On with the blog post!

Now Christmas is out of the way, it's totally normal for me to start thinking about spring. Yes already. I do like to plan and think ahead (I'm not impatient at all!) 

As you all probably know, one of my main passions in life is make-up. So of course, I am super excited to see what trends are out there for spring 2017.

When it comes to Spring make-up there are usually two things that are a given; flushed cheeks and bright lips. However, this year I was surprised to see a couple of not so obvious trends in there!

Predominant trends being seen at many fashion and make-up shows are;

• Overly flushed cheeks and draping (we'll get into that later)
• Bold lips
• Dewy skin and intense highlighting of cheeks and the nose
• Pops of eye colour on the eyelids
• Smudged eyeliner
• Glitter applied in a ''different'' manner!

Did you spot the two I didn't expect!? Smudged liner and glitter in ''different'' places are something I associate with the aftermath of a good night out. They don't scream SPRING to me but I'm up for trying anything once (well not anything...)

Anyway, let's go into more detail of each of these trends. First up, cheeks!

FEELING FLUSH.

Rosy cheeks and pretty blushers have always been popular at spring time but this year, blush is meant to be seen! It's bold, it's bright, it's not just pink and it's being draped. Okay, I said I'd go into 'draping' later so draping is basically where the blush is applied to the cheeks and also taken up onto the temples. This was a popular technique in the 1970's and 1980's (Think Debbie Harry and Madonna).

BOLD LIPS

It's no surprise that bold lips are back. Nearly every spring we see the return of bright lip shades in colours like; pink, coral, fuchsia and orange. In addition to these beautiful shades, red is making a big impact at shows showcasing spring make-up trends. Most of the lips are focusing on a matte finish but of course, you can wear what you want! 
A very big and bold colour seen a lot at fashion shows is red. Red is a classic lip colour that is just timeless but it doesn't have to just be a colour associated with glamour, winter and Christmas etc. It looks so beautiful during spring/summer with minimal make-up, pale skin and also with sun kissed skin.
Think less is more when it comes to the rest of your face, let the lips do the talking - so to speak!

Me wearing Topshop lipsticks (great shades for SS17)

DEWY SKIN

Ahhhh dewy skin and highlight - my favourite! 

Nothing says spring like fresh faced dewy skin and this year, prepare to glow!

The shinier and the glowier the better. Right from your base to your highlight.
Skin looks moisturised, fresh and dewy. The highlight is applied on to the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, the inner corner of the eyes, the brow bones and pretty much where you would highlight normally but more intensely!
Just glow for it!

Me wearing 'Smokin' Whistles' highlight by Colourpop

A POP OF COLOUR

Now, eyes. Bright colours are seen on the lids, in the crease and as eyeliners. Blue seems to the predominant colour while brights such as yellow, green, purple, orange, pink and red are proving popular too.

The lips and rest of the face are kept simple while the eyes are the focus.

There are no rules here, apply whatever colour you like wherever you like, just keep it simple and to one shade.

My favourite products for bright eyes have got to be my Morphe Brushes Palettes and my NYX Vivid Brights eyeliners.

You could create any look imaginable with these and they're both so affordable.

Get popping!

My Morphe 35C (matte) palette - also check out the 35U (shimmer) palette.

NYX Vivid Brights Eyeliner from Boots

SMUDGED EYELINER

I have to confess, the only time I've had smudged liner is after rubbing my eyes and forgetting I have make-up on. But it all seriousness, the smudged effect seen for spring '17 is more subtle. Think imperfect and undone rather than full on panda eyes (never a good look!)

Black, grey, navy and brown are the shades used and with regards to the ''rules'' there doesn't seem to be any. Eyeliner is applied to the waterline, the lower lash line, as winged liner and across the whole eyelid in an undone way.

Get smudging!!

GLITTER

I am pretty much like a magpie when it comes to glitter. I love it. In fact, I love anything sparkly or holographic.

However, the glitter trend for spring '17 is probably one I'll be skipping. Glitter is seen on the lips, eyebrows, the head and as facial tattoos. 

I'm all for new and different ways to wear make-up and for being open minded, but this just isn't a very wearable trend. I think I'll leave this trend to the catwalk models!

So there you have it. A round up of the Spring '17 trends.

Which ones will you be trying?

Leave a comment below and let me know.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

See you soon.

Much love.

Lifestyle : Slim Fast High Protein Shakes Review...

Greetings and a happy new year to you all! I hope you all had a great Christmas and new year? 

So, its January now and things are getting back to normal. If you're like most of the population, you will have made a resolution or two? One of those resolutions is probably to eat and drink more healthily? If so, read on...

Recently while I was in the queue in Superdrug, I happened to see masses of Slim Fast products gracing the shelves, beautifully merchandised. Upon closer inspection, I saw the price and thought ''Excellent, I'll be trying some of those!'' 

I have never tried any Slim Fast products before but after reading the labels and taking into account the great offer (carry on reading for info!) I decided to pick a selection to try.

Shakes are appealing to me and many others as they're quick, nutritious, easy to digest, a great source of protein, can be drank on the go and are great tasting. They also make fantastic post workout drinks and in between meal snacks.

There are many flavours available. Not pictured flavours are; Blissful Banana, Summer Strawberry, Simply  and Vanilla.

Here's what I got...I chose two powdered ''make yourself'' shakes and two ready to drink shakes.

Caramel Temptation, Chunky Chocolate, Cafe Latte and Choca Mocha.

Caramel Temptation. 438g. £3.49 (at time of purchase).

The powdered formula requires a milk of your choice, two scoops and a shaker or blender, very quick and very easy! This caramel flavoured shake is so delicious. It's white in colour and doesn't smell or taste 'chemically' at all. It tastes smooth, not too sweet, flavoursome and a bit like fudge! Just add two scoops (scoop included) to your favourite milk. I have made this up with coconut milk and almond milk and both work fantastically. Absolutely no lumps, bits or grit. It is 100% smooth.  It's the perfect balance of everything. Lovely.

Chunky Chocolate. 450g. £3.49 (at time of purchase).

Despite the name of Chunky Chocolate, this one isn't overly chocolately, of which I am glad. This powder is brown in colour and not 'chemically' to taste or pungent in smell. Chunky Chocolate tastes just like a deliciously smooth chocolate milkshake. Again I made this with both coconut milk and almond milk and both give a lovely smooth shake. I absolutely love this one. Tip : Making this with coconut milk  makes this taste a bit like a bounty! *hurrah*

Cafe Latte. 325ml. £1.32 (at time of purchase).

I bought this whilst out shopping to have on the way home. This is soooooo creamy tasting and delicious. It's smooth, not sweet but not bland, very flavoursome and as with the powdered shakes, there are no lumps, gritty bits or hidden nasties at the bottom of the bottle! Oh my goodness, I love this, it tastes exactly how it should. I cannot fault it at all. 

Choca Mocha. 325ml. £1.32 (at time of purchase).

The last of the bunch, Choca Mocha. Well done, slim fast. All four of these taste exactly as they should and are utterly delicious. This one tastes a perfect mix of coffee and chocolate, with less of a creamy taste that you'll find in 'Cafe Latte' but equally delicious. No lumps, no bits, just a smooth tasting delicious shake *big thumbs up*

These shakes have certainly excelled on the taste front, lets see how they fare with their macronutrients...

Choca Mocha shake. 325ml.

First off, all of the shakes contain the same array of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates and fibre. It is worth however noting that there are slight differences between the macronutrients in the ready made shakes and in the powdered shakes - and dependent on flavour.

The ready to drink shakes are slightly less in calories and protein per 100ml compared to the powdered form. The ready to drink shakes have 4.3g of protein per 100ml whereas the powdered formula has 5.3g of protein per 100ml.

The ready made shakes have around 63 calories per 100ml and the powdered formula's have approximately 87 calories per 100ml, which would vary dependent on which milk you use.

But the main point is, both variants of shake are high in vitamins, minerals, fibre and protein and relatively low in sugar compared to many other 'health drinks'. 

Each one of these shakes provides between 206-230 calories, which is just 10% of your recommended daily allowance, based on 2000 kcal for an average adult.

Pros :

• High in protein
• High in vitamins/minerals
• Affordable
• Readily available
• Good choice of flavours
• Great tasting
• Ideal for an active lifestyle
• Perfect for in between meals

Cons :

• Contains lactose
• May contain gluten
• Not suitable for vegans

Which do I prefer? 

The reason I've added this part in, is this... both formula's are very similar in the nutrients and protein they provide but one has more flexibility and offers better value for money.

The powdered formula is my favourite. Why? When preparing the powdered shakes, you are free to switch up the liquid you use. You could use soya milk, coconut milk, dairy etc or even water. In addition to this, when blending up your shake, you could add fruit, flaxseed or chia seeds etc making it much more of a meal and even more nutritious and filling.

Conclusion

I am really enjoying these shakes and have since been back to Superdrug and bought some other flavours! I think they are fabulous for in between meals, for on the go, for breakfast, as a post workout shake and even for giving to children as a healthy alternative to a milk shake (they won't notice the difference!) 

I'm so glad I decided to try both formula's and I've really enjoyed every single shake I have had. They quash hunger, fit in with my busy lifestyle and stop me reaching for other less healthy snacks so for that, I am thankful! 

Whether you are trying to slim or not, I'd still recommend these shakes because everyone needs well measured nutrients, sugars, fibre, fats and protein in their diets, DAILY! And I know it's not always easy to fit them in due to hectic lifestyles etc.

So, well done Slim fast. These shakes are great and I will definitely repurchase them when I have ran out.

Slim Fast products are available in Superdrug (where they're currently on offer!) Boots and other pharmacies. You can also check out the Slim Fast Page for product information, tips, motivation and recipes etc.

What do you think?

Have you tried any Slim Fast products?

What do you recommend? 

As always, thanks for reading. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below.

Many thanks

Healthy, dewy skin for winter..

Hello everyone!! It's been so long since I blogged, I bet you're suprised to see this right now!

Where did I go? Well, earlier this year, I took a step back and had a break, just to evaluate a few things and focus my time into other important areas of my life. But, I am back now and want to thank all of you for your continued support and for not unfollowing me or my blog. So, thank you! 

So, let's get to the post...

It's the most wonderful time of the year, right? Sure but not for our skin. The cold weather can and does wreak havoc with our skin, hair and immune system. So, I want to share with you three products that I am LOVING right now for giving healthy, luminous, protected and nourished skin. 

Oh and because I'm so good to you, they're all affordable. Hurrah!

Step one : 

Perfectly Pure Coconut oil from Holland And Barrett

If you follow me on social media, this will be no surprise to you. Yes, I'm talking about coconut oil! I love this stuff. Apart from making your skin look good - which lots of cosmetics do, it actually does your skin good. It's 100% natural, so it contains no added nasties like alcohol or fragrance for example. Coconut oil nourishes your skin, hydrates your skin and gives you the most amazing glow. I apply it at night and in the morning. If you want to wear this under make-up (which I do) let it soak in for at least ten minutes then take a cotton pad and dab off any excess. Then go ahead and apply your moisturiser and foundation. Result..super hydrated, soft glowing skin all day long.

Step two:

Vitamin E SPF 15 Radiance Moisture Cream from Superdrug

This moisturiser is a fairly new discovery for me, I've been using it just under a month. I was drawn in by three things : the price, the ingredients and the spf (yes, I still wear spf in the winter). 

Vitamin E has long been hailed a skin saviour, renowned for it's moisturising, healing and protecting qualities. Take that into account and add on an spf, a radiant finish and a price tag of £2.99* ,you can see why I wanted to try it. And I am pleased to say, I am super impressed. I love the scent of this, the finish and for that price, I will definitely be repurchasing this! 

Result..luminous looking and moisturised skin.

*price varies due to instore offers.

Step Three:

Collection Illuminating Touch Foundation from Superdrug (or Boots)

The final step...foundation. Again, this is new to me and a new product on the market. I have been using this for just under a month and have been loving the results. This is an affordable, illuminating medium coverage foundation. It does exactly what it says on the bottle, it doesn't oxidise, cake or alter throughout the day. It feels light on the skin while providing great coverage. I wear this in the shade 'Porcelain 1', which is the lightest shade and it matches me fantastically. I took a risk (not a huge risk, I know) and bought three bottles when it was on 3 for 2 and I'm glad i did now!

Result...dewy looking, evenly and well covered skin.

Every single product I mentioned, will give you glowing looking skin, whether used together like I do, or you just wear one of them. 

If you have a moisturiser or foundation you are particularly loyal to, try the coconut oil step only. I guarantee (I'm not signing anything!) that your skin will look and feel better with the coconut oil alone. Since I have been applying coconut oil in the mornings, I have been wearing less make-up . It illuminates the skin so amazingly, I can even skip concealer and highlighting! *Big thumbs up*

So, that's what I've been loving on my face lately, it works brilliantly for me and I am loving the results.

What are your favourite winter skin products?

Have you tried any of the products I mentioned?

Please do share YOUR tips and leave a comment to let me know.

Thanks as always for stopping by!

How I Am Growing My Hair - Tips For Speeding Up Hair Growth...

Last year, one Autumnal day, I decided to get my hair cut really short. In fact, the shortest I have ever had it. Whilst I enjoyed having it short for a while, after a few months I decided I wanted to grow it again (typical huh!?) Not just because I want longer hair again but because I want to grow my natural colour out. I have had it up to here *raises hand above head* with the maintenance and expense of having coloured hair.

Now while there is some truth in the role of genetics and the speed hair grows, there is also an awful lot YOU can do to encourage hair growth and health.

Diet

Diet is the most important element in growing healthy hair. We are essentially made from protein so eat a diet high in protein rich foods, healthy fats and drink lots of water. Water keeps all of your cells hydrated and maintains the balance of body fluids, which helps transport nutrients around the body (and to your scalp!) Don't forget your fruit and veg too, they're your vitamins! 

Exercise

Exercise encourages blood flow to your face and head. When blood flow to the scalp is increased hair follicles are stimulated, thus encouraging growth. Plus getting a bit red in the face, does wonders for your skin too! If you don't fancy exercise, long headstands or hanging upside down like a bat, see the next step...

Scalp Massage

As above, increasing blood flow to the scalp can ''re-awaken'' dormant hair follicles and get that hair growing again! Spend a good five minutes massaging your scalp using your fingertips or, invest in a scalp massager like I did (see below)

Minimise Styling Time

Reduce the amount of heat and styling products you apply to your hair. Heat leads to breakages and damaging of the hair shaft itself. The same applies to colour, you might want to ditch the bleach and hair colourants if you really want to grow long healthy hair ;-)

Clean Your Hair Carefully

Try to shampoo and condition your hair 3-4 times per week maximum. Washing every day can strip hair of it's natural oils and dry your hair out. Also, choose products that contain natural ingredients like coconut, avocado, jojoba and olive. These will help add moisture to the hair and minimise split ends and other hair damage. N.B Take care of hair when it's wet, wet hair is more prone to damage. Use a wide toothed comb and comb gently from the ends upwards.

Supplements

I have left this part for last as I want to go to in the most detail here. I have always eaten well and exercised and my hair has always grown pretty slowly. I introduced the following supplements into my diet at the beginning of January and my hair is now definitely growing quicker.

L-R Complete Vitamin B-Complex, Sea Kelp, Silica Complex and Hydrolysed Collagen.

B Vitamins

B vitamins are superb for general health and reducing fatigue and this complex (above) contains a myriad of super vitamins. Biotin, B12 and Folic Acid in particular are well known for the hair growth boosting properties! Biotin is probably the most famous supplement when it comes to hair growth and hair health but, by taking a full B-Complex supplement, you get many more of the much needed vitamins that really help boost a healthy head of hair!

Sea kelp

Sea Kelp is essentially an algae and a well know superfood! Kelp is really rich in Iodine, Zinc, Iron, Vitamins A and K and Amino Acids. Iodine is widely linked to hair growth and hair loss (in deficiencies) as it is vital for normal growth and development. Zinc accelerates the renewal of cells. These nutrients are vital in maintaining a healthy body, metabolism and regulating hormones and thyroid function. Thus maintaining and improving hair health as thyroid and hormone level imbalances can lead to hair loss.

Silica Complex

Firstly, Silica (Silicone and oxygen) works by helping to achieve hormonal balance. An imbalance in sex hormones is one of the main causes of hair loss. Secondly, silica binds to other minerals in the body and takes many nutrients to the peripherals of the body i.e the hair and nails. This complex also includes other hair loving and hair loss preventing minerals such as Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Boron and Horsetail. Silica is another very popular supplement used by those wanting to grow their hair.

Collagen

Collagen is a MAJOR component in forming your body's muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Collagen also plays a huge part in filling out wrinkles in the skin making it youthful and plump. Collagen is also vital for strengthening and thickening the hair. As we age our natural collagen production starts to decrease *sad face* This particular Collagen supplement (above) contains vitamin C also, it is advisable to take them in conjunction as Vitamin C contributes towards normal collagen function.

Fish Oils

I always take fish oils for general health so I didn't include them on the photo for this post. But they are definitely worth investing in for not just hair health but for skin, joints and heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oils) nourish the hair follicle for stronger and shinier hair. 

Vitamin E

Another Supplement not photographed but I want to include..Vitamin E. Vitamin E helps with hair growth and health in countless ways. It is a great stimulant for the growth of capillaries, when the capillaries are strong and healthy, the blood circulation around the scalp is enhanced which then promotes strong and healthy hair growth. Vitamin E also protects the body from free radicals. Free radicals cause ageing, thinning and greying of the hair and even baldness. Therefore, Vitamin E is essential for the health of the body AND hair.

Now for the fun part...the results. Well, the results so far anyway. I started taking all of the supplements mentioned above at the end of the first week in January. I also took weekly photos to track my hair growth. Impatient? who, me!? So, let's see..

Oh hi regrowth, nice to see you! (first time I've ever said that). As you can see, my hair has grown quicker than the average 2.5cm per month. In fact, it measured 4.1cm on the last photo taken at 28 days! Now, that is quick for me, really quick! My hair used to grow at a rate of about 2cm per month, if that! Considering supplements can take up to three months to have an effect, I am really happy thus far.

Tips

• I do believe a combination of all I have mentioned is vital for good health, not just for your hair but skin and nails too. It's hard to say for sure which factors help with hair growth the most, so practise a combination of as many as you can.
• Be patient! Keep at your healthy lifestyle and results will come.
• Stay away from overpriced 'celeb endorsed' hair supplements. You just need to look at the ingredients and you will see they can be bought much cheaper from your favourite health store. They are often way overpriced and don't contain as high of an amount of the nutrients as they should.
• Try not to stress, stress is bad for your hair as well as skin and health. Manage stress levels as best you can.

Side Effects

Side effects to this healthy lifestyle? As well as accelerated hair growth, you may experience glowing skin and longer, stronger nails! 

Conclusion

I am inclined to think it's the supplements that are really helping to speed my hair growth process up. I always drink a lot of water, workout and eat healthily so I'm sure its supplements in particular that are causing my accelerated hair growth. It's also worth mentioning, when you start taking a supplement, they often say it will take three months to notice a difference! So, I am super excited to see how much more my hair will have grown after the full three months!

I get my supplements from Holland & Barrett because I find them to be of high quality, they're easily attainable and there are always offers on instore and online. But, of course you can get them from wherever you like to shop.

So, that's it! I hope this was of some help to you. I will do an update post in another 8 weeks time, if it's something you would be interested in? 

What are your hair growth tips? 

Will you be trying any of my methods?

Please leave a comment below and let me know, or if you have any questions.

Thanks as always, see you soon! 

Feel Upbeat, The Good Whey..

How many times have we all done it? Overslept, gone out with no breakfast, frantically rushing around only stopping to sip some coffee or tea. Then soon after, alas, hunger strikes. You look at your watch, ''But it's only 10am!'', your concentration is off, you have little energy, your stomach is rumbling as if to say ''why did you forget me!?'' 

Now you have no excuse. Let me introduce a low calorie, delicious high protein drink you can enjoy in your home, on your commute, for breakfast, pre and post workout, in between meals or whenever you fancy!

The Three Flavours : Strawberry (my favourite), Mango And Passion Fruit and Blueberry and Raspberry. 

Upbeat is a tasty low calorie, low fat dairy protein drink. It packs a mighty 20 grams of whey protein into each 250ml bottle and also contains a really moderate amount of sugar *thumbs up*  Upbeat is made from just three ingredients : Fresh whey protein, fruit puree and fruit juice from concentrate. Each drink contains no more than 150 calories which is less than a bag of 37g crisps, half a bagel or two rounds of toast! So, as well as providing a very convenient source of protein for breakfast, Upbeat is low in carbohydrates so great for aiding with fat loss. Upbeat can be enjoyed in between meals, in place of your usual high sugar naughty snacks!

Who says convenience foods are bad?

All three flavours are absolutely delicious and very smooth in texture. Thinner than a milkshake and not as lumpy as a smoothie, these yogurt like drinks are super easy and a delight to drink. I really like the packaging too, it's really eye catching and cute. It's easy to see what you're buying and there are no hidden nasties.. it does what it says on the tin (Or bottle!)

Protein : The Lowdown.

Firstly, the word 'Protein' comes from the Greek word 'Proteios' which means primary. Which is what you should make this macro-nutrient in regards to your diet. Protein should be consumed with every meal you eat. The amount of protein you need per day depends on your activity level and weight but as general rule of thumb, you need 1g of protein per each lb of body weight. You can calculate this online and tailor your protein needs exactly to your requirements. Or you can use a trusty Upbeat calculator...

An example above for say an average adult

I am an active person and weight train regularly so my protein intake is set to 120g per day.

Now, as your body generally cannot digest more than 30g protein at one time, you need to spread your intake out over the day. For me that means eating five times a day. 

Whether you're active or not active, young or old...your body needs a constant supply of protein. Especially in the morning as your body has been in a fasting state overnight (Oh, hi Upbeat!)

Besides being hunger fighting and helping with fat loss, protein is the body's building block. We are essentially built from proteins. Our skin, organs, muscles, hair and nails all rely on a constant intake of protein to enable growth and development.

When consuming protein, I feel it's also important to obtain protein from a variety of sources. Meat and fish are the most popular choices while nuts, legumes, seeds, dairy and whey protein provide ample amounts of the much needed amino acid. 

Meat and fish generally take 3 hours to digest while liquid forms of protein i.e Whey protein can digest in approximately 30 minutes. Thus making protein drinks like Upbeat a fantastic source of protein, especially after your workout when your muscles need replenishing and repairing FAST! 

So, lets see how Upbeat compares to other protein sources :

Source: Feelingupbeat.com

As you can see above, Upbeat scores impressively, packing more protein into their bottles than contained in 3 eggs and 70g of tuna. Fantastic right? RIGHT! 

Upbeat drinks are made by 'The Good Whey Co' and I think they have given us all an affordable and convenient way to help us on our way to getting our daily protein needs. A diet high in protein really does stave off hunger and halt potential unhealthy snacking throughout the day. Upbeat certainly does fill you up nicely whilst only providing 150 calories or less. Therefore making it easier to hit your protein macros but not racking up the calories. Now that's something to get upbeat about ;-)

I really like how those lovely folk at 'The Good Whey Co' are really interactive with their customers too. They're really active across all social media platforms and really put themselves out there whilst appreciating each and every person that interacts with them. Their customer service is something other companies could learn a lot from. 

I genuinely have been buying these drinks for months. I always have them in my fridge or buy one when I'm out shopping to have in between meals. They are really affordable and so much more nutritious than other snacks. The convenience of Upbeat is the selling point for me. What else can you throw in your bag with this amount of protein? Or eat or drink when you only have a few minutes to spare and no time to cook or make a smoothie for example?

Upbeat will be remaining on my shopping list for the foreseeable future. Skipping breakfast? Snacking on junk in between meals? Not me!  After all, not all convenience food is bad! You just need a little bit of willpower...

Upbeat costs approximately £1.79 each (but it's often on offer) and is available from Tesco, Holland And Barrett, Waitrose and Sainsbury's. You can also visit the Upbeat website to learn more and say hello!

Have you tried Upbeat yet?

What do you think if you have tried it?

Please leave me a comment down below. I'd love to hear from you.

Thanks for stopping by.